We’re excited to announce that we’re funding two new cardiomyopathy research projects in 2026.
Our Catalyst Grants are intended for researchers to test new ideas, develop proof-of-concept studies or gather data that could help them attract further investment from other sources.
“Awarding our first research grants is a hugely important milestone for Cardiomyopathy UK. By supporting innovative early-stage research, we hope to spark new ideas that will ultimately improve life for people with cardiomyopathy. We’re incredibly excited to support these researchers and see where their work leads.”
Katharine McIntosh, Director of Research and External Affairs
Artificial intelligence for the prediction of risks in cardiomyopathy
Dr Arunashis Sau at Imperial College London is leading work to test a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool which analyses routine heart recordings (ECGs) to predict risk of developing serious problems such as dangerous heart rhythms. The team will study recordings from people with hypertrophic (HCM), dilated (DCM) and arrhythmogenic (ACM) cardiomyopathy.
Using blood tests to identify new drug targets to prevent the development of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in child gene carriers
A project led by Professor Juan Pablo Kaski at University College London and Great Ormond Street Hospital aims to understand how HCM starts and progresses in children who have a genetic change linked to the condition. The researchers hope to identify new targets for treatments, including the possibility of using existing drugs in new ways (known as repurposing) to prevent or slow the onset of HCM.
People affected by cardiomyopathy are at the heart of our funded research
This is the latest step in our journey to take a more active role in creating a future where everyone with cardiomyopathy can live a long and fulfilling life. These projects directly address research priorities identified through our Priority Setting Partnership with the James Lind Alliance. We asked applicants to involve people affected by cardiomyopathy in shaping their projects from the start. And every application was assessed by experts in the field and experts by experience.
“Up to this point, our efforts have been focussed on facilitating research. Now we are actually commissioning and providing the initial funding for early-stage research projects ourselves - a really significant step forward.”
Stephen Kirkham, Chair of the Board of Trustees
Keep updated on the latest research news and find out about opportunities to get involved in cardiomyopathy research by subscribing to our Research Network newsletter.
If you have any questions about cardiomyopathy research or how to get involved, contact us at research@cardiomyopathy.org