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Modifying heart cell metabolism unlocks self-repair system after heart attack

Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys discovered that blocking an energy transfer enzyme shifts mammalian hearts into a regenerative state, promoting regeneration and improving recovery after a heart attack. By modulating heart cell metabolism, scientists can potentially awaken the heart's dormant regenerative abilities.

SourceSanford Burnham Prebys·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2026

Even low levels of nighttime light exposure may weaken the heart, increase the risk of cardiovascular disease

Even low levels of nighttime light exposure can lead to structural changes in the heart, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers analyzed data from 11,017 participants and found that those exposed to higher levels of light saw a thickening of the heart's walls and reduced flexibility during a heartbeat.

SourceTulane University·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 9, 2026

Mental health conditions after trauma linked to higher cardiovascular risk

Research suggests that mental health conditions, including PTSD, substance abuse, and depression, can increase the risk of future cardiovascular risks such as heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death. Alcohol abuse was found to be the top psychiatric predictor of serious heart and brain conditions for both men and women.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateSep 2, 2026

Molecular mapping reveals hidden cellular programs in heart transplant rejection

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center used spatial transcriptomics to characterize acute rejection and response to immunomodulatory therapies following heart transplantation. The study linked cell-specific gene expression patterns to the development of cardiac allograft vasculopathy, a form of chronic rejection that limit...

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalNature Cardiovascular Research·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 10, 2026

Mini monitor measures artificial heartbeat

A new device inspired by fish's lateral line senses the pulse of lab-grown heart tissue, enabling real-time monitoring of hundreds of tests. This breakthrough could revolutionize drug screening and personalized medicine with more accurate human tissue simulations.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2026

Better heart 'digital twins' could help target treatment for Atrial Fibrillation (erratic heartbeat)

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London developed digital models of individual patients' hearts to simulate Atrial Fibrillation behavior. Combining three types of data, including MRI scans and electrical voltage measurements, identified more targets than imaging alone.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalThe Journal of Physiology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 17, 2026

Changes to the heart linked to marathon running vary by age, sex, and training level

Research synthesis reveals consistent biomarker increases and minor ventricular function changes after marathon running, varying by age, sex, and training level. However, the clinical relevance of these changes remains unclear, warranting further study to determine physiological responses versus long-term adaptations.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 9, 2026

Scientists uncover protein that could help failing hearts

Researchers identified a key protein called PERM1 that is restored in patients whose hearts recover after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. PERM1 regulates energy production and contractile function in heart cells, and its normalization is associated with improved cardiac function.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 21, 2026

Global collaboration on Kawasaki disease key to reducing risk of serious heart conditions

A new science advisory calls for coordinated international efforts to reduce disparities in care for children with Kawasaki disease, a rare but serious illness primarily affecting young children. The advisory highlights the importance of sharing data, expertise, and best practices to improve heart health outcomes for children with Kawa...

SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateMay 18, 2026

Microaxial flow pump does not improve outcomes for high-risk heart attack patients without cardiogenic shock

A new trial found that using a microaxial flow pump before and during cardiac stenting procedures for high-risk heart attack patients with severe heart attacks did not reduce heart damage. The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, also showed increased bleeding complications.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of the American College of Cardiology·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMar 28, 2026

Korea University study identifies liver–metabolic disease as a key risk factor for heart failure in older adults with atrial fibrillation

A Korea University study reveals that liver metabolic disease is a key risk factor for heart failure in older adults with atrial fibrillation, with MASLD having the lowest risk and ALD carrying the highest risk. The study highlights the importance of liver health in cardiovascular disease management.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalEuropean Journal of Heart Failure·TypeObservational study·DateMar 23, 2026

GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic could cut risk of major heart complications after heart attack, study finds

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs may prevent further tissue damage following a heart attack, significantly reducing the risk of further life-threatening complications. Researchers found that these drugs improve blood flow to the heart by activating potassium channels, relaxing constricted blood vessels and reducing heart damage risk.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2026

C-reactive protein is closely related to cardiac repolarization in patients with coronary artery disease in contrast to patients with cirrhosis

A new study reveals that C-reactive protein is associated with ventricular arrhythmias in stable coronary disease, while its relationship with heart rhythms is different in patients with cirrhosis. In cirrhosis, only high white blood cell count shows a trend for linking to unstable rhythms.

SourcePensoft Publishers·JournalBulgarian Society of Medical Sciences Journal·DateFeb 17, 2026

UT Health San Antonio researchers lead American Heart Association scientific statement on early recognition, intervention for post-stroke spasticity

Post-stroke spasticity affects an estimated 30-80% of stroke survivors, causing abnormal muscle tightness and involuntary spasms. Earlier diagnosis and timely intervention may improve functional outcomes and reduce long-term disability, according to the new scientific statement.

Do men develop cardiovascular disease earlier than women?

A recent study analyzed data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study and found that men developed coronary heart disease 10 years before women. The study indicates that this sex gap remains, with men having a higher cumulative incidence of cardiovascular disease and its subtypes.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of the American Heart Association·DateJan 28, 2026

Inflammation and autoimmune-like dysfunction may play a role in heart failure

A recent study from Penn State College of Medicine researchers found that helper T cells, typically involved in fighting infections, become overly activated in failing human hearts, causing damage. The activation of these T cells highlights the impact of inflammation and immune dysfunction in heart failure.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 27, 2026

Why can a computational model of the heart created at UPF help doctors operate on and treat patients with arrhythmia?

Researchers have developed a new computational model that can analyze factors affecting the success of device installation and patient evolution. The model enables precise calculation of anticoagulant doses needed post-operation, reducing risk and improving safety for patients with atrial fibrillation.

SourceUniversitat Pompeu Fabra - Barcelona·JournalJACC Case Reports·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2026

Protecting older male athletes’ heart health

Veteran male athletes over 50 are more likely to experience abnormal heart rhythms during training if they have scarring in their hearts. Exercise itself is not the cause, but can act as a trigger for dangerous heart rhythms in those with underlying heart issues.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalEuropean Journal of Preventive Cardiology·TypeObservational study·DateJan 11, 2026