Protection Of Cardiac Tissue

About

Overview Heart attack or myocardial infarction affects more than 720,000 Americans every year. Since the heart lacks a sufficient regenerative capacity to repair the injury, irreversible cardiomyocyte death occurs, ultimately leading to heart failure. With more than $108.9 billion in costs associated with heart disease compounded by decreased quality of life and longevity, finding mechanisms that can preserve heart cells is imperative for reducing financial costs and improving patient health. Technology Dr. Jitka Virag and her co-investigators from the Department of Physiology from the Brody School of Medicine have developed a novel method to preserve heart tissue viability following myocardial infarction. Ephrin A1 is delivered to the heart following myocardial infarction. Ephrin A1 delivery preserves heart tissue by reducing infarct size, necrosis, wall thinning and inflammatory cell infiltration. Uses and Advantages Preserves Heart Function Reduces Adverse Compensatory Hypertrophy Prevents Heart Tissue Necrosis Preserves the Integrity of Heart Muscle Cells Preserves Heart's Ability to Pump Blood Decreased Inflammation