FutureWire - futurism and emerging technology

Tuesday, December 07, 2004

Gene Therapy for Heart Failure?

Researchers at Philadelphia's Jefferson University have developed a method for using gene therapy to deliver a critical protein to failing rat hearts. The protein, S100A1, is essential for proper heart function. The rats who received the protein genes had greatly improved hearts as a results.

The research team is optimistic that the therapy could be used to restore full heart health to heart attack victims, as well as treat other cardiac disorders. Clinical trials in humans are still a ways off, but the team is working toward that goal.

Source: FuturePundit