Detrimental effects of atrial fibrillation on right ventricular function in pulmonary hypertension – mechanisms and therapeutic targets (B10*)

• Subject Area: Cardiology, Angiology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 268555672

Up to ~60% of pulmonary hypertension (PH) patients present with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, underlying mechanisms and treatment strategies remain largely unknown. This project will provide first evidence on the effects of AF on the right ventricle (RV) in relation to PH as “double stress”. We will study the pathophysiological mechanisms using human RV tissue and cardiomyocytes from patients with AF compared to sinus rhythm, with and without PH, at the single cell level. Based on these data, we will test potential cell specific CRISPR-mediated therapeutical approaches along with potential rhythm restoration for reversing the pathological progression of RV myocardium.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1213: Pulmonary Hypertension and Cor Pulmonale
• Applicant Institution: Justus-Liebig-Universität Gießen
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Samuel Sossalla; Professorin Dr. Laura C. Zelarayan-Behrend