Andre Terzic and colleagues have used embryonic stem cells to regenerate heart tissue in order to treat the congenital defect dilated cardiomyopathy.
The researchers used a mouse-model of human malignant heart failure to carry out the experiment, in which they transplanted 200,000 embryonic stem cells into the wall of the left ventricle of the heart.
After just one month, heart performance improved, synchronization of electrical impulses was achieved, and further deterioration was halted. Examination of the animals revealed that stem cells had grafted into the heart and formed new cardiac tissue. The stem cell transplantation also increased stamina and removed fluid buildup in the body – poor stamina and edema are both characteristic of heart failure.
The researchers say their findings show that stem cells can be used to repair genetic heart problems.
“Close evaluation of genetic variations among individuals to identify optimal disease targets and customize stem cells for therapy opens a new era of personalized regenerative medicine,” said Andre Terzic, M.D., Ph.D., senior author and principal investigator in a press release issued by the Mayo Clinic.
Yamada S, Nelson TJ, Crespo R, Terzic C, Liu XK, Miki T, Seino S, Behfar A, Terzic A. Stem Cells Express. First published online July 31, 2008; doi:10.1634/stemcells.2008-0187.
News release: Stem Cell Regeneration Repairs Congenital Heart Defect. Mayo Clinic website. September 11th 2008.
