Mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosome therapy targeting mitochondrial function for recovery of hibernating myocardium

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Many CAD patients experience reduced cardiac function despite retaining viable heart muscle with the potential to recover. This condition, known as hibernating myocardium (HM), can progress to heart failure if left untreated. Previously, this research team demonstrated in a porcine model of HM that oxidative stress—a key driver of inflammation—can be reduced by improving mitochondrial health and function. They also found that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can enhance mitochondrial health in neighboring heart muscle cells. In this project, the team will assess the effectiveness of MSCs in improving cardiac function in an HM model and investigate the mechanisms behind this improvement. If successful, the team will identify a novel regenerative cell therapy to prevent heart failure in patients with for HM.