The heart used in the first pig-human transplant was infected with a pig virus. This reveals that using other species as organ donors may not provide a solution for organ shortages.
Xenotransplantation is the transplanting of cells, tissues or organs from animals to humans. Pre-clinical trials of organ transplant from pigs have addressed some of the technical barriers.
(Shutterstock)
New developments in organ transplants from animals show promise. However, there has been no public engagement about a potential risk. It may streamline a pathway to humans for new zoonotic diseases.
Heart disease can change the genetic structure of heart cells. Understanding the role that mechanical forces play in these changes could lead to improvements in artificial tissue design.
This ‘backup’ pacemaker can keep the heart beating as normal when the mechanism which normally keeps the heart beating fails.
Over one-third of college athletes in the study who tested positive for COVID-19 had evidence of inflammation around the heart.
Miodrag Ignjatovic via Getty Images
Cardiologists say student athletes who test positive for COVID-19 should see their doctors to determine if heart tests are necessary, even if they don’t have symptoms.
Our new research shows deep body fat wrapped around the heart can release dangerous molecules, potentially leading to atrial fibrillation.
The view through an electron microscope shows the spikes that create the ‘corona’ effect on the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.
National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases
Scientists have developed and tested a new anti-clotting drug in mice that shows promise for treating heart attacks and stroke. It may also prove useful for COVID-19.
The use of antihypertension medication during the coronavirus pandemic has been a subject of hot debate but people should be cautious about simple conclusions.
A molecular model of the spike proteins (red) of SARS-CoV-2 binding to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) protein, the receptor (blue) which is its the entry route to the target cell.
Juan Gaertner/Science Photo Library
Krishna Sriram, University of California, San Diego; Paul Insel, University of California, San Diego e Rohit Loomba, University of California, San Diego
The ACE2 receptor allows the virus that causes COVID-19 to infect and destroy our cells. What is the normal role of ACE2 in the body, and could it be the key to blocking infection?
What would Darwin consider the best adaptation to protect against the coronavirus?
rolbos / Getty Images
Who is most likely to survive an infection of the new coronavirus? Two immunologists explain that it is those who mount exactly the right immune response – not too weak, not too strong.
It’s one of your body’s most basic vital signs.
Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com
Trying a new exercise routine? Strapping on a new wearable monitor? An expert in human physiology explains the ins and outs of your heart rate and why it’s a valuable number to understand.