Therapeutic Potential of Localized Radiation in Murine Models of Heart Failure
Researchers have begun to use radiation of the heart to safely and effectively treat patients with ventricular tachycardia. They have observed subsequent improvements in patients’ overall heart function. We aim to determine if heart radiation could be used to treat heart failure. Radiation improved heart function and decreased the amount of scar tissue in the heart of mice with heart failure. Heart radiation also decreased inflammatory cells in the heart called macrophages. However, even low doses of radiation have been found to have negative impacts on the heart in patients receiving radiation therapy for cancers. To determine an optimum radiation dose in mice, we will observe changes in their heart function and structure at lower doses. We will also manipulate their macrophages to determine how they impact heart function and structure. Our findings may suggest if radiation could be used as a new treatment for heart failure.
