Work

Mechanisms of Cell Death in Heart Disease

Year: 2012

Type: review

Abstract: The major cardiac syndromes, myocardial infarction and heart failure, are responsible for a large portion of deaths worldwide. Genetic and pharmacological manipulations indicate that cell death is an important component in the pathogenesis of both diseases. Cells die primarily by apoptosis or necrosis, and autophagy has been associated with cell death. Apoptosis has long been recognized as a highly regulated process. Recent data indicate that a significant subset of necrotic deaths is also programmed. In the review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms that underlie these forms of cell death and their interconnections. The possibility is raised that small molecules aimed at inhibiting cell death may provide novel therapies for these common and lethal heart syndromes.

Source: Arteriosclerosis Thrombosis and Vascular Biology

DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.111.224915

Authors: Klitos Konstantinidis, Russell S. Whelan, Richard N. Kitsis

Institution: Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Cell death mechanisms and regulation

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute on Aging, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases