Frankfurt, Germany – A new research initiative is underway to investigate a potential link between age-related genetic mutations in blood cells and the progress of cardiovascular disease. Funded with 70,000 euros from the German Heart Foundation, the study at University Hospital freiburg and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin will focus on “clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential,” or CHIP, and its impact, particularly in patients with atrial fibrillation. Researchers hope to better understand how these acquired mutations contribute to inflammation and increased risk of heart problems, paving the way for more personalized preventative strategies [1].
As people age, mutations can develop in blood cells, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. These altered cells may produce excessive inflammatory substances, contributing to the buildup of plaque in arteries, blood clot formation, and serious heart problems. A new study, funded by the German Heart Foundation, is investigating these connections.
(Frankfurt a. M., January 13, 2026) With increasing age, the likelihood rises that blood-forming stem cells will change and produce unwanted clones of cells – a condition known as “clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential,” or CHIP. Some of these mutated blood cells are suspected of fueling inflammatory processes, potentially triggering new cardiovascular issues and worsening existing heart conditions. Researchers at the University Hospital Freiburg and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin are working to understand the precise mechanisms behind these CHIP mutations, which are particularly common in patients with atrial fibrillation. The German Heart Foundation is supporting this foundational research with approximately 70,000 euros in funding.*
Changes in genetic material (DNA) can occur throughout life, not just be inherited from parents. Blood cells are often affected by these changes. Recent research has shown that the risk of cardiovascular disease can be increased not only by inherited genes – such as a family history of heart problems – but also by newly developed mutations, similar to what is seen in many cancers.
“Two million people in Germany suffer from atrial fibrillation – putting them at risk of serious complications. Atrial fibrillation increases the likelihood of stroke or heart failure. CHIP mutations are suspected to be an additional risk factor for patients with atrial fibrillation and many other people with chronic heart disease,” explained Prof. Dr. Heribert Schunkert, Deputy Chairman of the German Heart Foundation. “Further insights into CHIP mutations and their impact on the cardiovascular system are therefore enormously important. Consequently, we are financially supporting this groundbreaking project, which will make an important contribution to personalized medicine,” said the Director of the Clinic for Heart and Cardiovascular Diseases at TUM Klinikum Deutsches Herzzentrum. More information about research funding can be found here.
As the population ages, understanding the underlying causes of cardiovascular disease becomes increasingly critical for preventative care and treatment strategies.
Researchers are now focusing on a phenomenon called clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP), where mutations arise in blood-forming stem cells as we get older. These mutations can lead to the production of abnormal blood cells that may contribute to inflammation and increase the risk of heart problems.
A study, backed by the German Heart Foundation, is underway at the University Hospital Freiburg and Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin to unravel the specific mechanisms driving CHIP mutations. The research is particularly focused on individuals with atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder, as these mutations appear to be more prevalent in this population.
According to Prof. Dr. Heribert Schunkert, Deputy Chairman of the German Heart Foundation, “Two million people in Germany suffer from atrial fibrillation – putting them at risk of serious complications. Atrial fibrillation increases the likelihood of stroke or heart failure. CHIP mutations are suspected to be an additional risk factor for patients with atrial fibrillation and many other people with chronic heart disease.”
Unlike genetic predispositions inherited from parents, CHIP mutations develop over a person’s lifetime. This discovery suggests that acquired genetic changes, similar to those seen in cancer, can also play a significant role in cardiovascular health. The findings could lead to more personalized approaches to managing and preventing heart disease, allowing doctors to tailor treatments based on an individual’s specific genetic profile.
The German Heart Foundation is providing approximately 70,000 euros to support this research, recognizing its potential to significantly advance our understanding of cardiovascular disease. Further information about the foundation’s research funding initiatives is available here.
