Combined targeted and agnostic search for prognostic biomarkers in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (Dr Chokanan Thaitirarot)
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is when the heart can still contract, but the heart muscle may be stiffer than normal, making it less efficient. This project aims to find signals in the blood, called biomarkers that could help doctors find out which people with heart failure are likely to deteriorate more quickly than others. Professor Ng and team will use an approach called proteomics, which looks at all the protein molecules in a biological sample – in this case, blood plasma. The team are particularly interested in two types of protein markers: 1) those involved with lipoproteins (complex substances made up of fat and protein molecules) and 2) those involved with extracellular vesicles (pouches that transport biological cargoes between cells). They will also explore the ‘low-abundance’ plasma proteome, which means the proteins that are in the blood at very low levels. These molecules will be tested alongside existing biomarkers and compared for their ability to classify different types of heart failure. To make their discoveries, they will use samples from one group of people with heart failure, and will then validate their findings with a second group. Reliable biomarkers that can predict the progression of heart failure are urgently needed. This project will identify those most at risk sooner, allowing them to be cared for more effectively.
Project details
| Grant amount | £244,665 |
|---|---|
| Grant type | Fellowships |
| Application type | Clinical Research Training Fellowship |
| Start Date | 01 January 1900 |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Reference | FS/19/23/34370 |
| Status | In Progress |
