Researchers Examine Role of Inflammatory Mechanisms in a Healing Heart

Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University are investigating the role of a certain inflammatory mechanism called an inflammasome. While they do not have complete knowledge of inflammasomes' full roles in a healing heart, it is theorized that blocking the mechanisms will allow the heart to heal more quickly due to the lowered risk of inflammation. Inflammasomes help generate Interleukin-1Beta, which is a key inflammatory mediator. Blocking the interleukin will hopefully reduce further damage to the heart during the healing process. This research will aid tremendously in future heart operations. This allows a much easier recovery from people getting heart transplants or any mechanical implant. As biomedical technology gets more and more advanced, this will allow for a less stressful healing process.

Photo: A detailed picture of an inflammasome and the process it uses to create Interleukin-1Beta.

Sources: Article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/11/111130141859.htm

Picture:http://www.invivogen.com/review-nlrp3-inflammasome