Stem cells were used to “encourage” better function in heart failure patients in the U.K., according to a recent stem cell therapy trial spearheaded by researchers from the University of Edinburgh. Harvested from bone marrow, the stem cells, which were able to generate new cardiac tissue and blood vessels, had a success rate of 80 percent.
A new group of researchers is now looking to refine the treatment by focusing on CD34+ stem cells that circulate in the blood.
“These cells are important in new vessel growth and believed to be ideal to help the heart regenerate and recover,” said lead researcher of the new trial David Newby, MD, PhD, of the British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence to the Daily Mail in the U.K.
If the results of the new trial are positive, it could reduce the need for medications and potentially heart transplants.
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As a senior news writer for TriMed, Subrata covers cardiology, clinical innovation and healthcare business. She has a master’s degree in communication management and 12 years of experience in journalism and public relations.