Mechanisms Underpinning the Molecular and Structural Remodelling of the Human Heart

Research summary

The purpose of this study is to investigate how altered cellular processes may affect both the function and the structural remodelling of the human heart muscle (myocardial). Oxidative stress, is an imbalance between the production of free radicals (a very reactive molecule that looks to other compounds to gain stability) and the body’s ability to produce enough antioxidants to neutralise them. More research is needed to gain a better understanding in how this imbalance may influence the heart and its ability to neutralise reactive oxygen species (ROS) and repair the resulting damage. Previous research has shown that increased oxidative stress is associated with common cardiac conditions including atrial fibrillation, heart failure and hypertension. However, more investigation is needed to understand how the mechanisms involved in oxidative stress contribute to the development of heart disease. Nitric oxide synthases (NOS) are the group of enzymes that stimulate the production of nitric oxide (NO). This is an important cellular molecule that plays a role in the secretion of insulin, expanding blood vessels, increasing blood flow, and decreasing plaque growth. More needs to be understood in regard to how the dysfunctional NOS may impact the heart muscle in both its function and structure. Previous research has shown that dysfunctional NOS activity contributes significantly to atrial ROS production in patients with chronic AF. To further address these issues, several sources of reactive oxygen species from the human heart will be examined. In particular, we wish to investigate the species’ role in regulating the function and excitability of heart cells – these cells will be isolated from small samples obtained during heart surgery

Principal Investigator

Dr Rohan Wijesurendra

Contact us

Email: cvm_nurses@cardiov.ox.ac.uk

IRAS number

239558