University of Houston researcher Mingfu Wu has received a $3.1 million NIH grant to investigate left ventricular noncompaction, a serious heart condition that can lead to heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms. The study aims to uncover a common mechanism behind different genetic causes of LVNC and potentially identify new targets fo...
Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation reduces hospital admissions by a third and heart attack risk by more than a quarter, with long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness. Digital programmes can be just as effective as traditional centre-based services, making rehabilitation more accessible.
SourceCochrane·JournalCochrane Database of Systematic Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 17, 2026
A nationwide study found that lower temperatures are a significant risk factor for cardiac arrests, with a daily temperature drop of over 5°C serving as a warning signal. The study developed a predictive model using meteorological data to estimate expected daily numbers of cardiac arrests up to 3 days in advance.
A US study of 20 years of health data found that hormone therapy initiated during peri- or early postmenopause reduces cardiovascular disease risk by 22% compared to those who did not use hormone therapy. The protective effect was strongest among Black women and those who initiated therapy within 10 years of menopause onset.
A new study found that inducing mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) during embryonic development protects the adult heart from chemotherapy toxicity in mice. The study discovered that stressed mitochondria release citrate, leading to long-term epigenetic changes that promote beneficial mitohormetic adaptations. These findings s...
The Cardiovascular Research Foundation (CRF) presents 28 studies at TCT 2026, highlighting advances in minimally invasive interventions, pharmaceutical therapies, and breakthrough technologies. Key findings include improved outcomes for patients with heart and vascular disease.
A meta-analysis of nearly 1,900 studies found that climbing stairs significantly reduces the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Regular stair climbing was associated with lower risks of heart-related problems and major cardiovascular conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
A new review highlights how molecular biology advances are reframing PAH as a complex vascular remodeling disease driven by endothelial dysfunction, chronic inflammation, metabolic dysregulation, and genetic susceptibility. Emerging therapies target the BMP/TGF-β pathway, growth factor signaling, and inflammatory pathways.
A new study reveals that patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) have elevated lipocalin-2 levels and exhibit early signs of cardiovascular and cognitive impairment. The findings highlight the importance of considering MASLD as a systemic condition affecting multiple organ systems.
Researchers developed an artery-on-a-chip platform to predict ischemic stroke risk by replicating a patient's specific vascular structure and blood flow dynamics. The tool, called a 'physical twin,' reveals that three-dimensional vascular shape and local flow disturbances matter more than simple narrowing in predicting stroke risk.
Researchers at Salk Institute create a body-wide single-cell atlas of two major epigenetic systems, revealing that cell-type-specific epigenetic features can affect disease risk. The study identifies over 1.36 million differentially methylated regions and 283,606 differential chromatin loops across the human body's cell types.
Researchers have found 17 gene variations in alpha-actinin-2 associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a leading cause of sudden cardiac death. These variations affect the protein's stability and interactions, highlighting potential targets for new treatments.
Researchers at Mass General Brigham have been awarded $25.8 million in ARPA-H funding to develop a scalable gene editing platform for treating rare genetic vascular diseases. The VESSEL program aims to create durable, potentially one-time treatments for severe genetic vasculopathies.
A blood test measuring phosphorylated tau 217 (P-tau217) can estimate an individual's risk of developing cognitive impairment over 2, 5, and 10 years. Higher P-tau217 levels are associated with increased risk of progression to cognitive impairment in cognitively unimpaired older adults.
The University of Cincinnati launches the Center for Alzheimer's and Neurodegenerative Diseases Research (CANDR) to improve dementia prevention and treatment outcomes. CANDR aligns with UC's mission to innovate and engage locally while addressing one of the region's most pressing public health challenges.
A recent study has found that vaping and smoking can lead to reduced blood vessel functionality, breathing efficiency, and exercise capacity in young adults. The research, conducted on 75 people aged 18-30, revealed a 15% reduction in fitness compared to those who have never smoked or vaped.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that British Bangladeshi and British Pakistani individuals are more likely to develop multimorbidity, a condition where people experience multiple chronic illnesses simultaneously. The research identified sociodemographic and genetic factors that increase the risk of developing these conditions,...
A research team found that thalidomide may help stabilize and shrink sporadic CNS-AVMs by reducing endothelial ANGPT2 and increasing mural cell coverage. The drug showed promise in early clinical trials, with no lesion growth observed in 28 patients.
Researchers at the University of Zurich have developed epigenetic drugs that can reprogram perivascular fat cells to reduce inflammation and improve blood vessel health. By targeting specific gene-expression regulators, these drugs aim to prevent vascular damage in people with obesity and metabolic disease.
A new study suggests that moderate sitting may be beneficial for highly active adults, contradicting previous guidelines. The research found a J-shaped association between daily sitting time and health outcomes, with the lowest risk at approximately 4 hours of sitting per day.
The application deadline has been extended to June 23, 2026, in two categories: Women's Health and Pharmaceutical Strategies and Innovation. The €45,000 prize fund includes six awards of €10,000, €7,500, and €5,000.
Senescent cells that stop dividing but don't die can become abnormally active, causing inflammation and instability in blood vessel plaques. The study found that losing key regulatory proteins activates the CD38 enzyme, leading to a higher risk of blood clots and cardiovascular events.
The Phase III FIND-CKD trial found that finerenone significantly slowed kidney function decline and reduced the risk of cardiovascular-kidney outcomes in adults with non-diabetic chronic kidney disease. Finerenone also demonstrated a consistent effect across prespecified subgroups, supporting its broad applicability in these patients.
A simple, seven-second X-ray scan can accurately detect the severity of pulmonary valve regurgitation in patients with repaired Tetralogy of Fallot. The test uses dynamic chest radiography and requires minimal radiation, offering a more accessible diagnostic option for those who cannot undergo traditional methods.
Researchers at UT MD Anderson Cancer Center have made significant advances in understanding cancer biology, developing AI-powered atlas of tertiary lymphoid structures as prognostic biomarkers, and uncovering drivers of resistance to KRAS inhibitors. Additionally, they have discovered a molecular pathway that drives stressed cells to b...
A pioneering pilot clinical trial showed that spinal cord stimulation improved arm strength by 32% in stroke survivors, with significant reductions in muscle spasticity. The intervention required minimal training time and was safe with no serious adverse events.
Journalists from eligible European countries can submit entries in two categories: Women’s Health and Pharmaceutical Strategies. The total prize fund is €45,000, with €10,000 awarded to the first prize winner.
A new study by the University of Ottawa suggests that a tiny molecule, methylglyoxal, plays a major role in triggering neurological disorders after a heart attack. The molecule accumulates in the brain following a heart attack and is linked to depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
Researchers developed a new cardiac MRI-based measurement, eRVEF, to assess tricuspid regurgitation and improve mortality risk prediction. The study found that eRVEF predicted adverse outcomes better than traditional measures.
A major new study has found that severe asthma patients are often battling other health conditions, with nearly all suffering from at least one major issue. The study identified three distinct profiles linked to how well asthma is controlled and the treatments needed, offering potential breakthroughs for improving care.
Researchers developed a new class of stretchy bioelectronics that can stick to biological tissue and relieve hypertension while causing less damage to surrounding tissue. The CaroFlex device uses gentle electrical frequencies to modulate the baroreceptor reflex, providing effective treatment for drug-resistant hypertension.
A new global analysis found that nearly 90% of the increase in adults with hypertension occurred in low- and middle-income countries. Global hypertension prevalence has risen to 33%, affecting 1.7 billion people, with control rates being only about 40% globally.
A large-scale Nordic study found a link between PCOS and heart disease, with women at increased risk even in normal weight. The study also highlighted the importance of regular medical screenings for women with PCOS.
A new study published in Eye and Vision finds that one drop of low-dose atropine can produce daylong effects in managing myopia. The researchers found that the drop showed clear changes in pupil size and focusing ability, but no short-term structural effects on the eye.
High-intensity interval training shows strongest vascular benefits in cardiovascular patients. HIIE consistently improves flow-mediated dilation and vasodilation, with combined high-intensity programs showing the largest estimated effects on endothelial function.
The 2026 Semmelweis-Richter Journalism Award is now open for entries, with a focus on high-quality health journalism and its impact across Europe. Journalists can submit articles in two categories until June 9, 2026, with a total prize fund of €45,000.
Researchers found that Adgrl2 plays a crucial role in building both brain synapses and blood vessels, with different cell types producing distinct versions of the protein. Removing Adgrl2 from endothelial cells caused blood vessels to become leaky and lose their integrity.
A global trial involving 1,670 patients with intracerebral haemorrhage found that treatment with a single pill combination of three low-dose blood pressure medicines reduced the risk of another stroke by 39%. The study showed significant benefits in reducing major cardiovascular events and improving blood pressure control.
A new multicenter study finds that reoperative surgical mitral valve replacement demonstrates significant long-term survival benefits over transcatheter mitral valve-in-valve procedures in patients with failing bioprosthetic valves. At five years, rSMVR patients had lower mortality and more favorable valve performance.
A new study co-led by UT Health San Antonio found that having three or more live births is associated with a reduced risk of stroke and brain damage in women. The research suggests that reproductive factors, such as the number of live births, may be an important predictive factor in assessing stroke risk in women.
A large international study found that asundexian reduces the risk of a stroke in people who recently experienced a non-cardioembolic stroke or TIA without increasing bleeding. The medication works differently from existing anti-clotting drugs by blocking Factor XIa, a protein involved in harmful clot formation.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients with post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) who received stent treatment showed significant improvement in their condition and quality of life. The study, C-TRACT, enrolled 225 patients and compared two treatment strategies.
Research from Flinders University finds that people with sleep apnea who experience dramatic night-to-night breathing problems are 30% more likely to have a heart attack or stroke. The studies suggest that repeated changes in oxygen levels and sleep disruption can quietly stress the heart and blood vessels over time.
Treatment with i.v. furosemide plus HSS significantly decreased serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers IL-6, sST2, hsTnT, galectin-3, and NT-proBNP. The study found that this combination therapy modulated some miRNA expression and was associated with reduced miR181b expression compared to furosemide alone.
A UTEP study reveals that six weeks of boxing training can reduce blood pressure and improve vascular function in young adults with elevated blood pressure or Stage 1 hypertension. The results show significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, comparable to those achieved through medication.
The 2026 Semmelweis–Richter Journalism Award invites journalists to submit work highlighting critical health issues, particularly cardiovascular therapies. The prize fund is €45,000, with winners announced in July 2026.
Researchers at King's College London have been awarded £191,000 to enhance the prediction of aortic coarctation by adapting their established biomarker from MRI to ultrasound. The goal is to improve the accuracy of CoA diagnosis before birth using routine 2D scans.
Researchers at Kyoto University have discovered that targeting the CNP/GC-B signal pathway may provide a promising approach for treating Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH). The study reveals that CNP/GC-B signaling plays a protective role against PAH, and administration of CNP ameliorates experimental pulmonary hypertension.
This study reveals the regulatory role of BCAT2-mediated BCAA catabolism in VSMCs and its impact on intraplaque calcification in diabetic atherosclerosis. BCAT2 deficiency attenuates vascular calcification severity, decreases calcium salt deposition, and suppresses osteogenic phenotypic transition of VSMCs.
Researchers developed a high-speed photoacoustic microscope to track red blood cells in the mouse brain, allowing for single-cell resolution imaging of microvascular structures. This enables study of cerebral small vessel disease, cognitive impairment and dementia.
The Society of Interventional Radiology has published new practice guidance for treating chronic pelvic pain in women with venous-origin disorders, emphasizing interventional radiology's role in care. The guidance provides evidence-based recommendations on diagnosis, treatment options, and imaging.
A recent study found that higher IL6 levels are associated with increased mortality, while genetically higher IL6R levels reduce all-cause mortality through cardiovascular mechanisms. The researchers suggest that IL6R antagonism may be a potential strategy for preventing cardiovascular disease.
A new study found that adding one avocado and a cup of mango to daily meals and snacks for eight weeks improved vascular function among adults with prediabetes, while also reducing diastolic blood pressure. The Avocado-Mango diet showed significant increases in flow-mediated dilation and nutrient-dense nutrients without changes in calo...
A group of nerve cells in the brainstem has been identified as a stabilizing system for blood pressure, preventing fluctuations between daily activities. The study suggests that loss or dysfunction of these cells can lead to unstable blood pressure and is associated with conditions such as multiple system atrophy.
A new position statement from CSANZ and ACRA highlights telehealth as a critical tool for increasing access to quality cardiovascular care. The guidance provides best practice guidance for safe use by clinicians while emphasizing patient-centered, culturally inclusive multidisciplinary care.
The review outlines how vascular-immune crosstalk affects various diseases, revealing novel therapeutic opportunities. It highlights the shared embryonic origin of blood vessel cells and immune cells, as well as coordinated immune cell trafficking mechanisms.
A study in Lesotho shows that trained laypeople can achieve better blood pressure control in their community compared to normal treatment in healthcare facilities. The layperson-assisted model was found to be safe and effective, reducing hospital admissions and improving access to healthcare for underserved rural communities.
Advanced 3D imaging reveals that vascular amyloid deposition follows a specific pattern, starting from surface vessels and spreading inward along connected pathways. The study provides new insights into the spatial organization of amyloid pathology in cerebral amyloid angiopathy.
A new randomized clinical trial found that training the less-impaired arm significantly improved movement coordination, speed and control in chronic stroke survivors. The study showed that motor skills in the less-affected arm can be improved even years after a stroke occurs.
Ascending aortic hemiarch replacement is comparable to extended arch reconstruction for patients over 65 with acute type A aortic dissection. The study found no significant difference in long-term survival or surgical reintervention rates between the two procedures.