Using radiation therapy to treat dangerous heart rhythms.

Mechanistic Basis of Cardiac Irradiation as a Therapy for Ventricular Tachycardia

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-11094688

This study is looking at how a special type of radiation therapy might help people with a tough heart condition called ventricular tachycardia, especially those who haven't found relief with other treatments, by seeing if it can reduce their heart episodes and improve their overall care.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11094688 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) as a treatment for ventricular tachycardia (VT), a serious heart condition that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. The study aims to understand how high doses of radiation can effectively reduce the frequency of VT episodes in patients who do not respond to traditional treatments. By examining the biological changes in the heart after radiation therapy, researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind its effectiveness and improve treatment options for patients with refractory VT.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with ventricular tachycardia who have not responded to conventional antiarrhythmic therapies or catheter ablation.

Not a fit: Patients with VT that is easily managed with existing treatments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from refractory ventricular tachycardia.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results using radiation therapy for ventricular tachycardia, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.