Understanding the neurons that control heart rate
Molecular and Functional Taxonomy of Cardiovagal Neurons
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help control your heart rate, especially through the vagus nerve, to find new ways to treat heart disease and improve your heart health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10890078 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the specific neurons in the brain that regulate heart rate, focusing on the vagus nerve's role in controlling heart function. By identifying and studying cardiovagal neurons, the research aims to uncover their unique properties and how they interact with other neurons involved in heart and respiratory functions. The approach includes advanced molecular techniques to analyze these neurons' circuitry and gene expression, which could lead to new insights into heart disease treatment. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how heart rate is controlled and potential new therapies targeting these neurons.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cardiovascular diseases or conditions that affect heart rate regulation.
Not a fit: Patients with stable heart conditions that do not involve autonomic nervous system dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments 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 control of heart rate, but this specific focus on cardiovagal neurons is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Campbell, John N — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Campbell, John N
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.