Research from the field of heart medicine. Covers light exposure and heart health, lifestyle and longevity, and regional cardiology care.
A study published in the Chinese Medical Journal identified GSTP1 as a key regulator that blocks JNK-driven ferroptosis, providing protection against DOX-induced cardiomyopathy. Overexpression of GSTP1 inhibited ferroptosis and improved DOX-induced heart injury.
A new editorial highlights the importance of primary care in preventing heart disease in breast cancer survivors. The study found that most women do not go on to develop serious cardiac disease, but those with higher-risk chemotherapy, older age, or multiple cardiovascular risk factors may benefit from closer monitoring.
The Family Heart Foundation has launched the Lp(a) AW(a)RE initiative to educate primary care clinicians, healthcare insurance providers, and policymakers about high lipoprotein(a). The program aims to increase awareness, screening, and diagnosis of this genetic risk factor for premature cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have visualized intricate dynamics of heart cell interaction during repair, revealing how immune cells guide connective tissue and prevent overgrowth of scar tissue. The study provides a critical foundation for future research aimed at reducing scar formation and maintaining the heart's pumping capacity.
A study found a single mutation in the CD36 gene increases risk of dilated cardiomyopathy by 33% in individuals of African descent. This variant is more common in Black individuals and may account for 20% of excess DCM risk.
A new research project at Goethe University Frankfurt aims to shed light on the molecular pathways of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) in cardiovascular diseases. The project will search for transmembrane proteins that bind to EETs and mediate their effects, with potential implications for developing new classes of drugs.
The study found that men, Black patients, and those living in low socioeconomic areas were disproportionately affected by the increased amputation rates. The authors emphasize the need for aggressive prevention, early diagnosis, and intensive risk factor management to address the growing burden of diabetes and PAD.
Researchers validate GLIS model as a reliable predictor of sarcopenia and mortality risk in older patients with heart failure, outperforming existing tests. The model's accuracy enables early detection of physical decline and poor prognosis, informing treatment planning and discharge decisions.
Researchers developed an algorithm to optimize pacemaker function usage, reducing battery power consumption and potentially extending battery life by years. By switching off unnecessary features, doctors can reduce the number of surgeries needed and lower associated costs for the NHS.
Researchers discovered that cardiac fibroblasts use a signaling pathway to promote harmful changes in the heart, weakening its ability to pump blood efficiently. Blocking this pathway in mice models improved heart function, suggesting that fibroblasts could be a potential target for new therapeutic strategies.
Dr. Bruce D. Gelb, a pioneering pediatric cardiologist and geneticist, is honored with the 2026 APS John Howland Award for his groundbreaking research on congenital heart disease and developmental disorders. His work has profoundly shaped our understanding of these conditions and elevated the field of pediatric medicine.
The ENCIRCLE trial found that the SAPIEN M3 system significantly reduced mitral regurgitation severity, improved heart failure symptoms, and quality of life for patients with severe mitral regurgitation. Over 95% of patients had little-to-no valve leakage at one year.
A new sirolimus-eluting balloon has been shown to be noninferior to traditional treatments for in-stent restenosis. The study, presented at TCT 2025, found the balloon to be safe and effective for treating ISR without adding extra layers of stents.
A study found that super-high-pressure non-compliant balloons (NCB) are non-inferior to IVL balloon catheters for lesion preparation and stent expansion in severely calcified lesions. The results showed similar safety profiles and efficacy across various patient subgroups.
The study found that cutting balloon angioplasty is noninferior to intravascular lithotripsy in treating calcified coronary artery disease. The procedure is also less costly, making it a reasonable strategy for managing significantly calcified lesions.
A large international study found that utilizing sirolimus-eluting balloons with bailout stenting only if necessary was noninferior to routine DES implantation for treating de novo coronary artery disease. The results showed comparable outcomes, including low rates of cardiac death and target vessel myocardial infarction.
A new study published in TCT 2025 reveals that at least 4.7 million people aged 65-85 living in the US have moderate or greater valvular heart disease (VHD), and at least 10.6 million have clinically significant VHD. The prevalence of VHD increases with advanced age, highlighting the need for screening and treatment programs.
Dr. Hani K. Najm, a world-renowned congenital cardiothoracic surgeon, has been named the next vice president of the American College of Cardiology. He will assume his role during ACC.26 and is committed to advancing heart health for all, building on the organization's mission to optimize patient care and outcomes.
A new drug-eluting balloon has been shown to match the outcomes of standard care for in-stent restenosis, offering a safer alternative for patients with multiple stent layers. The study's results suggest that patients with complex or multilayer ISR may benefit from sirolimus-eluting balloons as a viable treatment option.
Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in private homes show effectiveness in improving patient outcomes for those with shockable rhythms during cardiac arrest. However, considering the rarity of cardiac arrest at home and current AED pricing, general purchase is not deemed cost-effective.
A cohort study found that night light exposure was a significant risk factor for developing cardiovascular diseases among adults over 40. Avoiding light at night may be a useful strategy for reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases.
A large national cohort study found associations between adverse pregnancy outcomes and increased risk of atrial fibrillation up to 46 years later. Women with these outcomes require early preventive actions and long-term clinical follow-up.
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discover a gene called HMGN1 that disrupts DNA packaging and regulation, leading to heart malformations in people with Down syndrome. Removing the extra copy of HMGN1 from mice with Down syndrome prevents heart defects, paving the way for potential treatments.
A recent study published in the European Heart Journal found that female bodybuilders are at a high risk of sudden cardiac death, with a mortality rate 20 times higher than amateur athletes. The study also revealed a significant proportion of deaths from suicide and homicide.
A study found that preexisting hyperlipidemia in pregnancy is associated with heightened risks of obstetric complications and early cardiovascular events postpartum. Women with high cholesterol are at increased risk of arrhythmias, acute coronary syndrome, gestational diabetes, and labor delivery complications.
A landmark study analyzed health data from over 600,000 patients across 10 countries to assess patient risk for non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS). The AI-powered model GRACE 3.0 predicts risk more accurately and guides personalized treatment decisions.
A study of 5,794 adults found that different types of depression are associated with varying levels of risk for cardiometabolic diseases. Those with atypical/energy-related symptoms were more likely to develop Type-2 diabetes, while those with melancholic symptoms were at higher risk for cardiovascular disease.
Dr. Amit Khera, a leading expert in preventive cardiology, will receive the 2025 Chairman’s Award for his groundbreaking clinical studies and contributions to the field of cardiovascular risk assessment. He is recognized for his tireless efforts to strengthen the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions.
A new review in Frontiers in Science calls for a fundamental shift in how heart drugs are discovered and tested using AI, omics, and big data. This approach could drive the development of personalized treatments for cardiovascular disease, which currently relies on broad-brush treatments that don't account for individual variability.
A study by the American College of Cardiology reveals that heart disease mortality is on the rise in California, with low-income communities bearing a disproportionate burden. The study found significant disparities in cardiovascular disease burden across counties, with high rates of hypertension, obesity, and diabetes associated with ...
The SCAI position statement highlights the advantages of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) in improving safety, efficiency, and patient access for structural heart interventions. ICE offers real-time, high-resolution imaging without general anesthesia, streamlining procedures and reducing complications.
Researchers use AI, omics, and systems biology to design targeted drugs for cardiovascular disease pathways. The tools could transform heart drug development and save lives, but global health policy leadership is urgently needed.
The American College of Cardiology has selected three outstanding abstract presentations as Abstract Award winners. The conference brings together leading experts to examine emerging trends and evidence-based strategies in heart disease prevention and management.
Dr. Emelia Benjamin will receive the award for her sustained record of excellence in teaching and mentoring early- and mid-career clinicians and researchers. Her research focuses on atrial fibrillation, mobile health, inflammation, and chronic pain.
The FDA has approved AD-NP1 for human clinical trials, a monoclonal antibody that targets cellular metabolism to promote tissue repair of multiple organs. Funded by the National Institutes of Health and other sources, AD-NP1 has shown efficacy in mice and monkeys, and may benefit various organs beyond the heart after acute injury.
A new analysis found that virtual reality effectively reduced anxiety during coronary angiography and had more stable vital signs than standard care. VR was superior to standard care in reducing anxiety and associated with significantly lower changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
A repeated cross-sectional study shows that cardiometabolic risk factors in Spanish children have improved over the last 30 years, with decreases in excess weight, lipid parameters, and blood pressure. The study provides valuable insights into the evolution of cardiometabolic risk in children.
A higher cumulative cardiovascular health score in young adulthood is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney events in midlife. The study emphasizes the importance of early life prevention efforts.
A study of 676 patients who experienced out-of-hospital cardiac arrest found that neurological outcomes were similar regardless of socioeconomic background. However, lower-income areas had lower bystander CPR rates, suggesting disparities in pre-hospital care.
Research presented at the European Emergency Medicine Congress finds that doctors and nurses are more accurate than AI in triaging patients in emergency departments. While AI showed some promise in flagging critical cases, its overall accuracy was lower than clinicians' across most metrics.
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions calls for Medicaid payment parity, fairer valuation of CHD procedures, and new compensation models to support care for children and adults with congenital heart disease. This policy statement aims to improve outcomes by addressing economic inequities in the healthcare system.
The latest Global Burden of Disease study reveals a significant increase in cardiovascular disease (CVD) burden worldwide, with CVD causing one in three deaths globally. The report estimates that 79.6% of all CVD deaths are attributable to modifiable risk factors, which has increased globally by 97.4 million since 1990.
A binational study found nearly 6 in 10 US adults and 3 in 10 Japanese adults discontinued semaglutide within 12 months of treatment. Patients with established cardiovascular disease and chronic kidney disease had higher discontinuation rates, highlighting the need for alternative treatments.
The SCAI Door to Lactate Clearance Cardiogenic Shock Initiative aims to improve outcomes in cardiogenic shock by using lactate clearance as a practical solution. Measuring lactate at diagnosis and every 2-3 hours can guide early management decisions.
A new clinical guideline has been issued for 18F-flurpiridaz PET myocardial perfusion imaging, providing recommendations for patient selection, imaging protocols, and interpretation of results. The guideline aims to enhance diagnostic accuracy and optimize resource utilization for the evaluation of coronary artery disease.
New research shows that music therapy significantly decreases heart rate, systolic blood pressure, and patient-ventilator asynchronies for patients admitted to the cardiac intensive care unit (ICU). Music therapy is a safe, low-cost, non-pharmacological intervention that complements conventional treatments.
A major report published by the European Society of Cardiology outlines expert recommendations for diagnosing, treating, and preventing COVID-19-related cardiovascular effects. The report emphasizes the importance of vaccination, cardiac rehabilitation programs, and equal access to services.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 trials found GLP-1 RAs significantly improved glycemic and weight outcomes in children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes or obesity. However, gastrointestinal adverse effects warrant attention in long-term management.
The new lab, led by Dr. Annapoorna Kini, will focus on leveraging AI in interventional cardiology, from procedural to educational aspects. The lab aims to optimize complex treatment decisions and improve patient outcomes through AI-powered insights.
A new study published in JAMA found that routine H. pylori screening did not significantly reduce the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients hospitalised for myocardial infarction. However, subgroup analyses showed lower risk ratios for patients with mild and moderate anaemia.
Adding aspirin to long-term anticoagulation therapy increased the risk of cardiovascular events, death, and major bleeding in patients with chronic coronary syndrome who required anticoagulation. The AQUATIC trial found that aspirin significantly increased all-cause mortality and major cardiovascular events in this high-risk population.
Atrial fibrillation treatment with biomarker-based risk scores does not improve clinical outcomes compared to usual guideline-based care. The study found no benefit in reducing stroke or death rates, despite changes in medication use.
In a randomized trial, patients with acute MI who received one month of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) had noninferior cardiovascular and cerebrovascular event rates when switching to P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy. This switch reduced bleeding risk while maintaining ischaemic event protection.
A new trial found that P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy may reduce bleeding while preventing recurrent ischaemic events compared to 12 months of DAPT. However, the study failed to demonstrate noninferiority for death and ischaemic events between P2Y12 inhibitor monotherapy and dual antiplatelet therapy.
A new trial found sacubitril/valsartan to be superior to enalapril for heart failure patients with Chagas disease, driven by a significant reduction in NT-proBNP levels. The study provides evidence for a pharmacological treatment specifically for this high-risk population.
Two trials found that drug-coated balloons and stents did not reduce the risk of amputation or improve quality of life compared to uncoated devices. Target vessel reinterventions were reduced in the first year, but differences disappeared with longer follow-up.
A study found that home-based hypertension care led to significant reductions in systolic blood pressure and improved hypertension control in rural South Africa. The intervention included technology-supported interventions and community health workers, resulting in over 80% of patients achieving hypertension control.
A recent trial found that discontinuing oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy after successful ablation of atrial fibrillation resulted in a lower risk of stroke, systemic embolism, or major bleeding. No significant difference was observed in the incidence of ischemic stroke or systemic embolism between groups.
New research suggests that standard antiplatelet therapy after complex stenting does not provide a significant clinical benefit, while increasing the risk of bleeding complications. The study's findings challenge the notion that more aggressive antiplatelet therapy is always better for high-risk patients.
A randomized trial found that routine coronary computed tomography (CCT)-based follow-up did not reduce death, myocardial infarction, unstable angina, or stent thrombosis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for left main coronary artery disease. Spontaneous MI was reduced in the CCT arm compared to the control arm.