Using light to improve heart function in diabetes patients
Official title: Optogenetic modulation of cardiac vagal function improves prognosis in diabetes
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10900922 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with type 2 diabetes who have heart rhythm problems by using a tiny device that uses light to gently stimulate a nerve in the heart, aiming to make their hearts healthier and reduce the risk of dangerous rhythms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $195,000 |
| NIH project number | 7R21HL163509-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900922 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who experience cardiac arrhythmias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without type 2 diabetes or those who do not have heart rhythm issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treat heart rhythm problems in patients with type 2 diabetes by using a technique called optogenetics. Instead of traditional methods that can cause side effects, this study aims to use a miniaturized implant that precisely targets the heart's vagal nerve to enhance its function. By activating specific nerve cells with light, the goal is to reduce the risk of dangerous heart rhythms and improve overall heart health. This innovative method could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for managing cardiac issues in diabetic patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer treatments for heart rhythm disorders in diabetes patients, potentially reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death.
How similar studies have gone: While optogenetics is a novel approach in this context, similar techniques have shown promise in other areas of medical research, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Dongze — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Dongze
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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.