The present invention relates to the treatment of acquired and genetic heart conditions in a subject by the inhibition of SGK1, including Long QT syndrome and cardiovascular disease, including dilated cardiomyopathy. Cardiovascular diseases treatable by SGK1 inhibition include heart failure, arrhythmia, ischemic injury, ischemic infarction, cardiac fibrosis, vascular proliferation, restenosis, dilated cardiomyopathy, and stent failure. The present invention also identifies selective inhibitors of SGK1. The method comprises administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an inhibitor of SG.