Experimental Treatments for Cardiomyopathy

Sai Gayathri Kurup

My research topic is cardiology, the study and treatment of conditions affecting the heart and circulatory system. I specifically looked at experimental treatments for cardiomyopathy, a set of acquired or genetic heart conditions that make it difficult for the heart to pump blood properly. In one study, scientists observed that a combined treatment of cardiac and mesenchymal stem cells significantly increased heart function than either type of stem cell alone. In another study, researchers found that intravenous injections of mesenchymal stem cells had anti-inflammatory effects that improved patient health as a whole, despite a lack of direct effect on cardiac function. A third study showed that intracoronary stem cell transplants improved heart function by increasing left ventricular output and decreasing inflammatory cytokines. The presented research can improve the lives of millions of people around the world that are affected by cardiomyopathy. While many heart diseases are caused by unhealthy lifestyles or behaviors, cardiomyopathy is often genetic and puts even young children and competitive athletes at risk of sudden cardiac death. By finding an effective treatment for this disease, people’s quality of life can be significantly increased, and advancements can be made in treating other heart diseases as well. I plan to pursue the Research Practicum with Ingenuity, and I hope to work in the field of cardiology or oncology.