Unique Isoform-specific Regulation Of Cardiac Ryanodine Receptors By Calcium Store Proteins
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$421,160.00
Summary
The importance of proteins that regulate calcium stores of heart muscle is graphically illustrated by massive changes in cell structure and function, which lead to ventricular fibrillation and fatality when the proteins are disrupted. We recently made the remarkable discovery that the proteins have a unique action in the heart which enhances cardiac contraction. We will discover the interaction sites between the proteins and will define novel therapeutic targets for heart failure.
The Influence Of A-actinin-3 On Muscle Structure, Metabolism, Performance And Response To Diet And Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$624,355.00
Summary
We have identified a common genetic variant that results in absence of the fast muscle fibre protein a-actinin-3 in more than one billion humans worldwide. Loss of a-actinin-3 influences elite athletic performance, muscle bulk and strength in the general population, response to diet and exercise, and susceptibility to developing type 2 diabetes. We will now study mice and humans to determine how this gene influences variations in human performance, metabolism and severity of muscle disease.
Heart muscle cells have little potential for regeneration, and after a heart attack or in response to chronic hypertension, they grow bigger, resulting in deterioration of function and heart failure. We have compelling evidence that the c-kit protein limits heart regeneration and function. We expect to demonstrate that c-kit inactivation can greatly improve heart regeneration and function after cardiac injury/stress. Our work will have major clinical significance for future heart failure treatme ....Heart muscle cells have little potential for regeneration, and after a heart attack or in response to chronic hypertension, they grow bigger, resulting in deterioration of function and heart failure. We have compelling evidence that the c-kit protein limits heart regeneration and function. We expect to demonstrate that c-kit inactivation can greatly improve heart regeneration and function after cardiac injury/stress. Our work will have major clinical significance for future heart failure treatment strategies.Read moreRead less