We explored the effects of folate, a form of vitamin B, on heart problems associated with TANGO2-deficiency disorder (TDD). This genetic condition can lead to dangerous heart rhythms that don’t respond well to standard treatments. To dive deeper into this issue, we established patient-derived heart cells, known as iPSC-CMs, to mimic the heart abnormalities seen in TDD.
In our observations, we found that high doses of folate almost completely eliminated arrhythmias in these heart cells. Interestingly, our clinical observations revealed that TDD patients taking multivitamins, particularly those high in B vitamins, experienced a significant reduction in cardiac crises. This suggests that folate may play a critical role in protecting against these life-threatening heart issues.
Our findings not only highlight the potential of folate as an effective treatment but also emphasize the importance of considering dietary supplements in managing cardiac risks in patients with TDD. Thus, we believe that boosting folate intake could offer a valuable strategy to enhance heart health in those affected by this disorder.
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Combination therapy for heart injuryIron chelators loaded on myocardiocyte mitochondria-targeted nanozyme system for treating myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in mouse models.
Combines iron chelation and treatment
We explored how iron impacts heart disease by developing a targeted delivery system that addresses myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI), a condition that leads to significant heart damage. This integrated system utilized cerium oxide (CeO) nanoparticles alongside dexrazoxane (DXZ), an iron-chelating agent, to improve therapeutic outcomes. By loading these components into mesoporous polydopamine nanoparticles, we aimed to enhance their delivery to the heart and specifically to the damaged mitochondria where they are most needed.
The results of our study were promising. We found that the combination of iron chelation and antioxidant properties significantly reduced oxidative stress and inhibited ferroptosis, a form of cell death linked to heart injury. Additionally, this approach led to improved cardiac function and reduced inflammation, which are crucial for recovery after MIRI.
Overall, this hierarchical targeting system offers a new avenue not only for the clinical use of DXZ but also for advancing nanomedicine interventions in heart repair. However, it’s important to note that while iron plays a role in this therapeutic approach, isolating its specific effects on heart disease remains challenging due to the combination with other treatment methods in our study.
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We investigated the role of iron treatment in managing heart disease, particularly its isolated effects. The research closely looked at how iron supplementation interacts with other therapies in patients with heart conditions.
Heart disease can often be complicated by iron deficiency, leading to questions about the potential benefits of treating this deficiency. Our findings revealed that while iron treatment showed some promise, its overall effectiveness on improving heart disease symptoms or outcomes appeared limited when considered in isolation.
Additionally, the study emphasized the importance of viewing iron treatment not as a standalone solution, but as part of a broader approach that includes other therapies. This nuanced understanding can help guide healthcare practices in treating heart disease patients more effectively.
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Apelin-13 shows heart protectionApelin-13 Protects Against Myocardial Hypoxia/Reoxygenation (H/R) Injury by Inhibiting Ferroptosis Via Nrf2 Activation.
High relevance to heart disease
We investigated how Apelin-13 can protect heart cells from injury caused by lack of oxygen and subsequent reoxygenation, a significant issue in coronary artery disease. In our analysis, using heart cell models, we discovered that Apelin-13 reduces oxidative stress and improves heart cell function.
It lowers harmful iron levels and enhances protective substances in the cells, thus preventing cell death through a process called ferroptosis. Importantly, the protective effects depend on the activation of a specific protein called Nrf2. These findings suggest that Apelin-13 holds promise for future treatments in heart disease.
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We explored the effectiveness of a bioconductive patch aimed at treating atrial fibrillation (AF) using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles. This patch not only improves electrical conduction but also helps reduce AF episodes in animal models. Over a 60-day period, the patch showed better outcomes than a standard gelatin variant, enabling continuous, noninvasive monitoring of its therapeutic effects through magnetic resonance imaging. However, further research is necessary to fully understand its long-term benefits in treating AF.
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