The mark of a failing heart
A laboratory at Children's Hospital Boston is conducting the largest reported study to find that microRNAs -- tiny pieces of code that regulate genes -- play a role in heart failure. William Pu, MD, Sadakatsu Ikeda, MD, and Sek Won Kong, MD, believe microRNAs go out of balance in heart failure, touching off damaging genetic pathways or upsetting those needed to maintain a healthy heart. The group has linked patterns of imbalanced microRNAs to three major types of heart failure. Decreases in one microRNA (known as miR-1) upset calcium signaling in heart muscle cells, possibly leading to heart-wall thickening or faulty electrical conduction, common reasons for heart failure. Doctors may one day use microRNAs to predict the type of heart failure a patient will have, helping to individualize treatment, or as the treatment itself.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007, 9:00 a.m-12:00 p.m.
Abstract Oral Session #AOP.21.2: Gene Expression/Molecular Biology: RNA Silencing and Processing -- Novel Mechanisms of Gene Expression Regulation
Abstract #835: Downregulation of Cardiomyocyte-enriched MicroRNA Contributes to Altered Gene Expression in Heart Failure -- Sadakatsu Ikeda, MD (9:30-9:45 a.m.)
Contact:
James Newton
Chidren's Hospital Boston
617-919-3110
james.newton@childrens.harvard.edu
American Heart Association Scientific Sessions:
Wynette Randolph
(214) 706-1396
sessionsmedia@heart.org
Scientific Sessions Web site
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