A new scientific
breakthrough could help doctors in their fight against cardiovascular disease.
Researchers at the
University of Missouri used advanced 3-D microscopic imaging technology to
examine the changes that occur in proteins when the arteries become stiffer.
Gerald Meininger, director of the educational establishment's Dalton
Cardiovascular Research Center, explained that much of the scientific knowledge
that doctors use to treat the condition is based on old practices.
Dr Meininger and his team observed how the elastin concentrations in artery
walls are replaced by collagen as a person ages, resulting in this stiffening
effect.
"Elastin production peaks at a very young age and declines throughout
life. Molecular biologists are trying to determine how to turn elastin
production back on in the correct places," added Michael Hill, another
member of the team.
Cardiovascular disease is the UK's biggest killer and a leading cause of heart
attacks and strokes, states the British Heart Foundation.
© Adfero Ltd
Heart treatment news : 13 January 2012
