Cardiovascular Pathophysiology Research
The primary research focus of The Division of Cardiovascular Pathophysiology is regurgitant valvular diseases (leaking heart valves). These diseases are among the more common causes of heart failure. In addition, they bear a strong pathophysiological relation to heart failure of the most common cause (coronary artery disease). Therefore, in addition to our continued efforts to identify physiological indices that can define optimal timing for valve surgery, we have focused intensively on elucidating the myocardial cellular and molecular pathophysiology of regurgitant valvular diseases that should provide knowledge applicable for developing treatments aimed not only at valvular problems, but for other common causes of heart failure, as well. The most unique aspect of the research program is the emphasis on scar formation in the heart and its relation to heart failure, where our efforts are at the forefront of current research. During the past two years, using experimental models, we have demonstrated the formation of abnormal scar tissue in hearts with leaking valves; defined many of the molecular (gene) abnormalities that lead to the abnormal scarring; demonstrated that the scar tissue is a direct result of the mechanical stresses placed on the heart by leaking valves; and elucidated a possible preventive measure or treatment. Further clarification of the biology of the affected heart cells is ongoing, with plans to move these studies into people this year.Division Information
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