Research on heart failure and its treatment. Covers light exposure, heart-in-a-dish models, microRNA therapy, and surgical interventions.
A study published in Human Gene Therapy found that urocortin 3 gene therapy significantly improved left ventricular function and ejection fractions in mice with induced heart failure. The therapy resulted in a 1.9-fold increase in left ventricular function and a 32% relative increase in ejection fractions.
Patients with common heart failure are more likely to experience lethal heart rhythms, according to research from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. The study found that those with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are twice as likely to suffer from pulseless electrical activity or asystole, which can be fatal.
Researchers at Intermountain Medical Center Heart Institute found that risk-score guided care improved healthcare delivery for high-risk heart failure patients, reducing mortality rates by 48% and 30-day readmission rates by 25%. This innovative approach uses personalized risk scores to direct patients to advanced levels of care.
A Yale-led research study found that a drug therapy used for chronic heart failure also improves markers of poor prognosis in individuals hospitalized with acute heart failure. The treatment reduced NT-proBNP levels more quickly than standard therapy, indicating substantial improvement in heart failure severity.
The Dapagliflozin Effect on CardiovascuLAR Events - Thrombolysis in Myocardial Infarction 58 trial found that dapagliflozin markedly reduced the risk of hospitalization for heart failure and progression of renal disease, with benefits seen across the study population.
Researchers discovered a self-protection mechanism in failing heart cells that triggers the regulation of genes promoting heart failure. The study reveals that one fragment of the protein junctophilin-2 protects against damage by traveling to the cell nuclei.
A study of 1244 patients found a 72% higher risk of heart failure in those receiving androgen deprivation therapy compared to non-users. The researchers recommend counseling patients on modifiable heart failure risk factors and providing cardiovascular examinations.
A University of Arizona researcher is working on a potential treatment strategy targeting cardiac fibroblasts responsible for excessive collagen production in the heart. The goal is to prevent progression to heart failure by slowing down the overproduction of scar tissue.
A team of researchers has discovered a biomarker, named cBIN1 Score, that measures muscle deterioration and protein regulation in the heart, indicating onset of heart failure. This simple blood test can aid doctors in diagnosing at-risk patients before symptoms appear.
A Loyola University Chicago study reveals that diabetes causes heart failure through the accumulation of methylglyoxal, which weakens heart muscle cells. The findings suggest new drug treatments to counter the effects of methylglyoxal and prevent heart failure in diabetics.
A new study found that a home-based rehabilitation programme for people with heart failure significantly improves their quality of life. The Rehabilitation Enablement in CHronic Heart Failure (REACH-HF) programme, which is deliverable within NHS cost guidelines, was shown to have significant clinical benefits.
Researchers discovered a micropeptide called DWORF that restores normal heart function in mice by enhancing SERCA activity and preventing calcium dysregulation. The study shows that DWORF can prevent the functional and structural effects of cardiomyopathy, making it a promising new gene therapy target for treating heart failure.
Researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital have developed a new model of heart failure that allows for the specific study of oxidative stress using chemogenetics. The approach enables researchers to activate or inactivate reactive oxygen species in the heart, leading to advanced cardiac dysfunction.
A team of researchers has used cryo-electron microscopy to study how microtubule-associated proteins regulate cell structure and transport. They found that MAP4 stabilizes microtubules while blocking kinesin's movement, which could lead to new treatment strategies for cardiac hypertrophy and neurodegenerative diseases.
Mesoblast's MPC-150-IM heart failure product candidate is being studied in a randomized trial combining cell injection with corrective surgery in children under five with hypoplastic left heart syndrome. The trial aims to promote cardiac growth and regeneration, improving quality of life and longevity.
The COAPT trial found that the MitraClip device significantly reduced hospitalization rates and mortality, while improving quality-of-life measures and functional capacity in heart failure patients with secondary mitral regurgitation. The study also showed a substantial reduction in the need for heart transplants or left ventricular as...
A multicenter clinical trial found that the transcatheter mitral valve repair significantly reduced hospitalizations and mortality for heart failure patients with moderate-to-severe or severe functional mitral regurgitation. The procedure improved symptoms, quality of life, and survival rates.
A large study found that severe cases of prosthesis-patient mismatch after transcatheter aortic valve replacement increase the risk of death and heart failure readmissions by 19% and 12%, respectively. The study identified predictors of PPM, including smaller valve prostheses, larger body surface areas, and female or younger patients.
A recent study published in Open Heart reveals that UK heart failure patients are significantly more likely to die than their Japanese counterparts, with mortality rates being nearly twice as high. The disparity persists even after accounting for differences in patient severity and risk factors.
In a mouse model, researchers found that dysfunctional regulatory T-lymphocytes contribute to sustained inflammation and cardiac enlargement. Removing these cells restored normal function and reversed disease progression. This therapeutic approach suggests a new target for treating human heart failure.
A new study found that walking more can significantly lower the risk of heart failure in older women, particularly those with reduced ejection fraction. Increased physical activity was associated with a 9-10% risk reduction for heart failure and its subtypes.
A study by researchers at the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute has identified novel lipids in the heart and plasma of exercise-trained mice compared to those with a failing heart. These findings may represent new biomarkers and/or drug targets for Atrial Fibrillation and heart failure.
Researchers at ISGlobal and Oxford University found that heart failure is a pathogenic mechanism in severe malaria, leading to higher mortality rates. The study identified four clusters of patients with respiratory distress and severe anaemia, where liver size increase was associated with higher mortality.
Researchers at MUSC and Ohio State University have discovered an unexpected mechanism that underlies cardiomyopathy in DMD. Inhibiting NF-κB normalizes calcium handling and significantly increases calcium gene expression, leading to improved heart function.
Researchers found that reducing secondary mitral regurgitation in heart failure patients did not improve survival or symptoms, suggesting the procedure is futile. Despite successful procedure completion, there was no significant difference in primary endpoint outcomes between intervention and medical treatment groups.
A study published in the European Heart Journal reveals that microvascular dysfunction is a prevalent underlying disease mechanism in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction. The research highlights the importance of identifying patients at risk and developing targeted therapies to improve outcomes.
The COMMANDER HF trial found that rivaroxaban did not significantly reduce the risk of death, myocardial infarction, or stroke in patients with recent worsening of chronic heart failure and coronary artery disease. Rivaroxaban was associated with a lower rate of nonfatal stroke, but a higher risk of major bleeding compared to placebo.
A new study published in Circulation found that oxygen therapy for patients with suspected heart attacks does not reduce the risk of developing heart failure or dying. The study, conducted at 35 Swedish hospitals, involved over 6,600 patients and showed no significant difference in survival rates or complications.
The study found that state Medicaid expansions under the Affordable Care Act led to a decline in uninsured hospitalizations for major cardiovascular events. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in the US, and this study examined the association between Medicaid expansion and changes in uninsured hospitalizations.
Researchers at Temple University Health System have identified four BAG3 gene variants linked to poor outcomes in African American patients with dilated cardiomyopathy. The variants facilitate programmed cell death and reduce autophagy, leading to worsening heart failure.
A new study found significant correlations between blood levels of EPA plus DHA omega-3s and cognitive depression in heart failure subjects. The study also showed improvements in social functioning and a positive correlation between the Omega-3 Index and reduced cognitive depression scores.
Researchers at Hiroshima University have found a genetic marker that indicates when a person with a fast heartbeat is at high risk of developing tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy (TIC) and eventual heart failure. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of the condition, reducing the risk of cardiac damage or death.
A study led by Adam Wende found an underlying mechanism that reprograms the hearts of patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy, altering cellular remodeling and metabolism. The researchers identified epigenetic changes that encode a 'metabolic plasticity' in failing hearts, which may repair the ischemic and failing heart.
A clinical trial called GutHeart Trial examines the relationship between gut bacteria and heart failure, testing antibiotic, probiotic yeast, or no treatment on patients with heart failure. The study aims to develop new treatment strategies and better understand how gut leakage affects inflammatory processes and heart failure.
A recent study found that 8.3% of trastuzumab-treated patients developed heart failure, highlighting the need for cardiac monitoring in high-risk breast cancer patients. The study also showed a consistent increase in heart failure risk with age, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing cardiac monitoring for younger patients.
Researchers used heart imaging technology to study hearts of pregnant women with severe preeclampsia, finding higher contraction pressures in right ventricles and abnormal relaxation rates. This led to overwork and poor pumping ability, increasing risk of heart failure, stroke, and heart attack.
A UCLA-led study found that many people with heart failure do not receive recommended medications, and when prescribed, they are often at lower-than-recommended doses. The research highlights the need for new strategies to improve medication dosing and outcomes for people with heart failure.
A new study found that UVA's Hospital-to-Home program significantly improves survival and other outcomes for heart failure patients while saving money. The program slashed mortality rates by 41% and reduced hospital readmissions by 24% compared to non-participants.
Patients taking ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors may experience worsening heart failure and cardiovascular death compared to those on non-protease-inhibitor regimens. The study found a doubled risk of hospital readmission within 30 days and increased cardiovascular death within two years.
A drug currently in clinical trials for treating Parkinson's disease shows promising effects on strengthening heart contractions in dogs and rabbits. The new compound works differently than current drugs, suggesting its use may be a safer way to increase heart contraction strength without the risk of dangerous complications.
A $1.54 million NIH grant will support research on modifying troponin T to improve cardiac function in heart failure. The study aims to develop a new approach for treating this condition by targeting the physiological modification of cardiac troponin T.
A study of over 90,000 patients found women's heart failure mortality is higher and hospitalization rates have increased in women compared to men. The research highlights sex differences in heart failure outcomes, care delivery, and access in Ontario.
A new population study in Sweden has found that genetic heritage is the dominant factor when it comes to heart failure in families. The study, led by Magnus Lindgren, found a 45% higher risk of heart failure in adoptees with at least one biological parent suffering from the condition.
Researchers have identified how a new treatment in mice can regenerate the heart after a heart attack by promoting growth of lymphatic vessels and clearing immune cells. This approach showed significant reduction in damaged heart muscle and improved recovery of pumping function.
Patients with heart failure experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety are at higher risk for progressive heart disease and adverse outcomes. Psychotherapy may offer advantages over medications as a treatment option for these patients.
Researchers used human stem cells to restore heart function in monkeys with heart failure, finding that new muscle tissue had grown within damaged regions and restored heart function. The study suggests a potential treatment approach for people with heart failure.
Researchers highlight tragic case of baby Noah's death due to vitamin D deficiency and advocate for simplified guidance, mandatory monitoring, and food fortification. Current UK recommendations are deemed outdated and overly complex, putting dark-skinned individuals at risk.
Women are largely underrepresented in clinical trials of heart failure medications, with limited evidence on their efficacy. Precision medicine may lead to more effective medications by incorporating sex-aware randomized clinical trials.
A new study from MIT and Harvard University introduces the 'Therepi' device, which attaches directly to damaged heart tissue to deliver multiple therapies. The device addresses issues with current drug delivery methods, providing a non-invasive solution for treating heart disease.
Permanent His-bundle pacing bypasses iatrogenic left bundle-branch block caused by conventional RV pacing, maintaining or restoring ventricular synchrony. This technique is beneficial for patients with bradycardia or conduction system abnormalities.
A new cardiac pump device has been found to minimize cost of care over time for heart failure patients, with a 51% reduction in re-hospitalization rates and significant cost savings compared to the standard device.
Researchers found that higher protein intake from most sources was associated with a slightly higher risk of heart failure, with the greatest increase seen for animal-based proteins. The study suggests that moderating protein intake may be beneficial in preventing heart failure, but further research is needed.
A new study by the American Heart Association found that high protein diets may be associated with a small increased risk of heart failure in middle-aged men. The study followed 2,441 men over an average of 22 years and found that those who consumed more protein had a slightly higher risk of developing heart failure.
A new study in Circulation presents evidence that fluid redistribution from the abdominal compartment to the heart and lungs may cause heart failure. The study used splanchnic nerve block to demonstrate this phenomenon in patients with acute heart failure, improving symptoms such as shortness of breath.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center have discovered a potential new way to treat fluid buildup in heart failure by shutting off the spigot causing it. The procedure improved symptoms in five acute heart failure patients and showed significant reductions in pressures inside the heart and increases in cardiac output.
Researchers have discovered a genetic link between alcohol consumption and heart failure, specifically in individuals with a faulty titin gene. The study found that even moderate amounts of alcohol intake can worsen the condition by reducing heart output in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy caused by the faulty gene.
A population-based study in Gothenburg, Sweden identifies BMI change during puberty as a potential novel risk factor for adult heart failure in men. Boys who were normal weight at 8 years of age and became overweight during puberty were three times more likely to be diagnosed with heart failure as adults.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that social isolation in patients with heart failure can lead to a higher risk of death and hospitalization. The research, which surveyed over 1,600 patients with heart failure, revealed that those who reported high levels of social isolation were 3.7 times mo...
The study found that Medicaid expansion was associated with a decline in ICU admission rates among patients with ambulatory-care sensitive conditions. Rates of uninsurance and Medicaid coverage increased significantly in expansion states, suggesting improved access to care.
A new algorithm developed by UCLA researchers more accurately predicts which people will survive heart failure and for how long. The algorithm provides significantly better predictions than current methods, allowing doctors to make personalized assessments and potentially reduce healthcare costs.