Using collagen-derived peptides to reduce inflammation after heart attacks
Official title: Collagen-derived peptides to target inflammation in myocardial infarction
Funded at East Carolina University · NIH-10980527 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special protein that might help reduce harmful inflammation after a heart attack, making it easier for your heart to heal while still doing its important repair work.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Carolina University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greenville, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2021 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $373,834 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL152297-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980527 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently experienced a myocardial infarction and are at risk of developing heart failure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not had a heart attack or those with advanced heart failure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a specific peptide derived from collagen to target inflammation following a myocardial infarction (heart attack). The approach focuses on modulating the activity of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), which plays a crucial role in the healing process but can also contribute to adverse heart remodeling. By using the peptide p1159, the research aims to reduce harmful inflammation while allowing MMP-9 to perform its necessary functions in tissue repair. This could lead to improved outcomes for patients recovering from heart attacks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance recovery and reduce the risk of heart failure after a heart attack.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting MMP-9 for cardiac conditions, but this specific approach using collagen-derived peptides is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
East Carolina University
Greenville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Castro Braz, Lisandra E — East Carolina University
- Study coordinator: De Castro Braz, Lisandra E
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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.