Using metformin to reduce heart injury in older adults during heart attacks
Metformin Therapy for Ischemic Insult and Reperfusion Injury in Aging
This study is looking at whether metformin, a diabetes medication, can help protect the hearts of older adults during and after a heart attack by reducing damage when blood flow returns to the heart.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896309 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of metformin, a medication commonly used for type II diabetes, to protect older adults' hearts during and after a heart attack. The study focuses on how metformin can reduce damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion, a condition where blood supply returns to the heart after a period of deprivation. By examining its effects in both laboratory models and older patients, the research aims to find a new way to improve heart health in aging populations. The approach involves understanding the drug's action on heart cells and its ability to inhibit specific mitochondrial processes that contribute to heart injury.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those aged 65 and above, who are at risk of heart attacks or have experienced one.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or those without cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that significantly reduce heart damage in older adults during heart attacks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using metformin for heart protection in younger populations, but this research aims to explore its effects specifically in older adults, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Richmond, United States
- Virginia Commonwealth University — Richmond, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lesnefsky, Edward J — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Lesnefsky, Edward J
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.