At the BHF Clinical Research Collaborative, we are continually inspired by the ingenuity of the UK’s cardiovascular research community. Following a rigorous review process by our Steering Group, which comprises 16 representatives from our integrated specialist societies, we are thrilled to announce the allocation of four new grants through our Research Development Fund.
This latest cohort stands out for its sharp focus on the future of medicine. From leveraging artificial intelligence and deep learning to championing sex-specific diagnostics and refining lifestyle interventions, these four initiatives embody the cutting edge of clinical exploration.
Our Research Development Fund provides vital seed funding. By empowering researchers to test feasibility, develop novel methodologies, and gather preliminary data, we help them build the robust foundations required to secure large-scale funding and launch major clinical trials.
A Closer Look at the Four New Projects:
- Surface ECG Characterisation for Atrial Fibrosis in Atrial Fibrillation (SCAR-AF):
Atrial fibrillation (AF) remains a major clinical challenge, and understanding underlying atrial fibrosis is key to improving treatments. This project will test the feasibility of complex dataset linking while developing a robust ECG feature extraction and machine learning pipeline. By producing pilot results through a logistic regression analysis, the SCAR-AF project will generate the essential data needed to launch a comprehensive, pooled multicentre study in the near future.
- LQT-AI: Enhanced Diagnosis of Long QT Syndrome Using Machine Learning:
Long QT Syndrome (LQTS) requires precise, timely diagnosis to prevent severe arrhythmias. Collaborating with experts across institutions, this study harnesses the power of artificial intelligence. The team will build an ambulatory ECG dataset comprising both LQTS patients and healthy controls to train a novel deep learning diagnostic model. Ultimately, this pilot data is designed to support a larger, translational study focused on wearable diagnostic technologies.
- The Comparative Effects of Guideline Exercise Approaches for the Management of Elevated Blood Pressure (EXACT-BP):
Physical activity is a cornerstone of cardiovascular health, yet optimising specific exercise guidelines for blood pressure management requires rigorous, targeted trials. This pilot for the EXACT-BP randomised controlled trial will gather critical feasibility data and incorporate direct patient feedback. By refining intervention and monitoring protocols, the research will yield preliminary data to inform outcome selection and power calculations—establishing a strong foundation for a highly competitive future funding bid.
- Sex-Specific Echocardiography Assessment of Aortic Stenosis:
Historically, many cardiovascular guidelines have relied on sex-neutral parameters, occasionally overlooking critical physiological differences between men and women. This crucial project aims to identify echocardiographic parameters in aortic stenosis that distinctly differ by sex. Furthermore, it will evaluate which of these sex-related parameters best predict clinical outcomes, actively comparing them against current sex-neutral guidelines to drive more personalised, equitable patient care.
Looking Ahead
The path from a promising concept to a practice-changing clinical trial is rigorous. The BHF CRC is proud to support these investigators as they take these critical first steps, mitigating the early-stage risks of research to accelerate the delivery of impactful innovations to patients nationwide.
Are you a researcher with a transformative idea? Keep an eye on our official channels for upcoming funding announcements, visit the Research Development Fund page on our website for the latest updates, or reach out to us directly at enquiries@bhfcrc.org.
