Using RNA delivery to improve heart function in patients with contractile disorders

Cardiac delivery of RNA to treat contractile disorder

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11117128

This study is testing a new way to deliver helpful RNA directly to the heart using tiny particles, aiming to improve heart function for people with conditions that make it hard for their heart to pump effectively.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11117128 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new method to deliver therapeutic RNA directly to the heart to treat contractile disorders, which affect the heart's ability to pump effectively. The approach utilizes specially designed lipid nanoparticles that can efficiently transport RNA molecules to cardiac cells. By targeting specific proteins involved in heart function, the goal is to improve heart contractility and overall cardiac health. Patients may be involved in studies that assess the effectiveness of these treatments in improving heart function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with heart failure or other conditions that impair heart contractility.

Not a fit: Patients with stable heart function or those not experiencing contractile dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve heart function in patients with contractile disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using lipid nanoparticles for RNA delivery, particularly in the context of mRNA vaccines, suggesting a potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.