Growth factor triggers growth of new blood vessels in the heart

Source: Washington University School of Medicine
Posted: June 15, 2006

Summary:

Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have investigated a signaling molecule -- called Sonic hedgehog -- that could overcome problems associated with blood-vessel growth factor therapy. In a report appearing in the June 15 issue of Genes and Development, the team showed that activating hedgehog signals in adult mouse hearts led to an increase in the density of blood vessels in the heart. Their findings suggest that a drug treatment that turned on or increased hedgehog signals could significantly benefit patients suffering from ischemic heart disease and myocardial infarctions and offer an alternative to invasive procedures like surgery or angioplasty.

Commentary: Maybe this research will eventually be able to be translated into effective treatments for heart disease and improve cardiace function in humans.