A new study reports a significant increase in rheumatic fever cases in the Utah area, with over two-thirds of patients showing no history of sore throat. The disease, which can lead to permanent heart valve damage, is on the rise again, sparking concerns among medical professionals.
Researchers find that a protein called Rb can keep heart cells 'dormant', preventing them from dividing and causing damage. By activating a related protein MRP1, scientists hope to induce heart cells to multiply and replace damaged ones, offering new gene therapy possibilities for treating heart disease.
A UK research team has identified vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in human aortic tissue using near-infrared spectroscopy. The technology aims to predict which plaques are harmless and which pose a risk of rupture, enabling targeted treatment to prevent heart attacks and strokes.