The study appeared in the journal Circulation.
A team of researchers has developed a new way to prevent heart failure. Researchers at the Cincinnati Children's Heart Institute used an experimental targeted molecular therapy to block a matrix-forming protein in heart cells damaged by heart attack, reducing levels of scarred muscle tissue and saving mouse models from heart failure.
The team tested a manufactured peptide called pUR4 to block the fibronectin protein in human heart cells donated by heart failure patients.The treatment helped human heart cells from failing and also restored their function. It also reduced fibrosis and improved heart function after a simulated heart attack in mice.
"Our data are a strong proof of principle and the first to show that inhibiting fibronectin polymerization preserves heart function, reduces left ventricle remodeling and limits formation of fibrotic connective tissue," said lead investigator Burns Blaxall.
However, researchers made it clear that it will be too early to tell whether the experimental therapy in this study could be implemented to treat heart patients clinically someday or not. The study appeared in the journal Circulation.
(With ANI inputs)
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