Sinoatrial node dysfunction in ageing and failing hearts - the role of the membrane and Ca2+ clocks
The heartbeat begins at the natural pacemaker of the heart – called the sinoatrial node. The beat is initiated by two systems, called the ‘membrane clock’ and the ‘calcium clock’. As we get older or develop heart failure, the pacemaker no longer functions properly; this could be life-threatening for patients with severe heart failure. Reductions in pacemaker function are thought to be caused by changes to proteins in the membrane and calcium clock systems, but we don’t yet understand the importance of each system. Professor Mark Boyett has been awarded a three year grant to investigate the changes that occur to the heart’s pacemaker as animals get older or develop heart failure. The team will study the membrane and calcium clock systems that are responsible for the initiation of the heartbeat. Understanding the intricate processes controlling the heart beat and what goes wrong in ageing and heart failure may reveal new ways to treat abnormal heart rhythms.
Project details
| Grant amount | £307,522 |
|---|---|
| Grant type | Project Grants |
| Application type | Project Grant |
| Start Date | 01 July 2013 |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Reference | PG/13/18/30055 |
| Status | Complete |
