THERAPEUTIC CONCEPT
Loss of cardiomyocytes (heart cells) is the primary hallmark of heart failure. However, unlike other cell types, there is a limited capacity for cardiomyocytes proliferation in the adult heart and in the failing human heart. Therefore, regenerative approaches to replenish the lost cardiomyocytes are necessary to recover the contractile capacity of the heart and prevent death. Targeting cardiomyocyte proliferation is a potential new therapeutic strategy for myocardial regeneration and repair. Using our platform, we have uncovered novel therapeutic RNAi approaches that aid heart cell regeneration and proliferation. Patents, publications in progress; compounds validated in preclinical models.
INDICATION
MI leads to sustained ischemia (1), causing irreversible CM damage and death (2). Upon reperfusion, an activation of pro-inflammatory cascades lead to tissue remodeling (3). Dead CMs are replaced by fibrotic scar tissue (fibrotic gene program) (4). This fibrous tissue is non-contractile and compromises the function and geometry of the ventricle (5). The adverse tissue remodeling can eventually lead to cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure (6).
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