The ability of body cells to ‘turn on ‘and ‘turn off’ selected genes, changing what they do. Scientists have identified a group of proteins to leverage for cellular programming, enabling them to reprogram damaged heart cells to repair heart injuries in mice following a heart attack.

The findings from Sanford Burnham Prebys, US, could help transform treatments for a range of diseases, including cardiovascular, Parkinson’s and neuromuscular diseases, they said.

The findings are published in the journal Nature Communication.

The ability of body cells depends on cellular programming. An emerging approach in regenerative medicine in which scientists transform cells to repair damaged body tissues.

Also Read: Does COVID-19 During Pregnancy Leads To Risk Of Obesity In Children? Read What Experts Say

Researcher’s Approach

“Even if a person survives a heart attack, there could still be long-term damage to the heart that increases the risk of heart problems down the line,” said lead author Alexandre Colas, assistant professor, Sanford Burnham Prebys. “Cellular reprogramming could, in theory, allow us to control the activity and appearance of any cell,” said Colas.

He also mentioned that “This concept has huge implications in terms of helping the body regenerate itself, but barriers to reprogramming mechanisms have prevented the science from moving from the lab to the clinic”.The scientists determined that AJSZ could be found in all cell types, and it can be used in treating a variety of diseases.

“This breakthrough is a significant step forward on our way to turning these promising biological concepts into real treatments,” said Colas. The next step in the research includes multiple options to block AJSZ proteins from functioning.

“We need to find a way to inhibit these proteins in a way we can control to make sure we are only reprogramming the cells that need it, we will be screening for drugs that can help us inhibit these proteins in a controlled and selective manner in the coming months,” said Colas.

The researchers said, helping heart health after injury is an important medical need in its own right.

(With PTI inputs)