Understanding the nerve circuits that control heart rate.

Molecular and Functional Taxonomy of Cardiovagal Neurons

NIH-funded research University of Virginia · NIH-11082067

This study is looking at special brain cells that help control your heart rate, which could lead to new ways to understand and treat heart problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Virginia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charlottesville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082067 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the specific neurons in the brain that regulate heart rate through the autonomic nervous system. It focuses on a group of neurons known as cardiovagal neurons, which are part of the vagus nerve and play a crucial role in decreasing heart rate. By examining these neurons, the research aims to uncover their unique characteristics, gene expression, and how they interact with other neurons involved in various bodily functions. This could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for heart diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with heart diseases or conditions that affect heart rate regulation.

Not a fit: Patients without any heart conditions or those whose heart rate is not influenced by autonomic nervous system dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for heart diseases by targeting specific neural circuits that control heart rate.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neural circuits related to heart function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Charlottesville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Cardiac DiseasesCardiac Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.