Understanding the link between premature atrial contractions and atrial fibrillation
Elucidating Mechanistic Relationships Between Atrial Ectopy, Atrial Remodeling and Atrial Fibrillation
This study is looking at how early heartbeats called premature atrial contractions (PACs) might lead to a heart rhythm problem known as atrial fibrillation (AF), and it will also test if a certain medication can help prevent the damage caused by these early beats, which could be helpful for people who often experience PACs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10874698 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how premature atrial contractions (PACs) may contribute to the development of atrial fibrillation (AF). By studying animal models, the researchers aim to determine whether PACs from specific areas of the heart lead to more significant structural changes and electrical disturbances that promote AF. The study will also explore the potential of an antifibrotic drug to prevent these harmful changes. Patients with frequent PACs may gain insights into their condition and potential treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients experiencing frequent premature atrial contractions.
Not a fit: Patients without any history of atrial ectopy or those who do not experience premature atrial contractions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for patients at risk of developing atrial fibrillation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the mechanisms of atrial ectopy can lead to significant advancements in managing atrial fibrillation, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gerstenfeld, Edward Paul — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Gerstenfeld, Edward Paul
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.