Project Summary/Abstract Research over the past decade has revealed the importance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the control of cardiac remodeling and heart failure. We have characterized a cardiac specific lncRNA in the control of calcium handling in human and mouse cardiomyocytes. Knockout of this lncRNA causes dysregulation of calcium handling in cardiomyocytes and impairs cardiac function. Knockout mice are susceptible to cardiac arrhythmias caused by catecholaminergic challenging and premature death. In this project, we propose to (1) determine mechanisms by which lncRNA regulates gene expression at the transcription level, (2) determine how lncRNA regulates gene expression at the alternative splicing level, and (3) determine cardiac protection conferred by lncRNA in response to pathological stresses. The results from this project have the potential to facilitate the development of novel therapeutics for heart disease.