UConn scientist invents way to examine heart disease genetics
A scientist from the University of Connecticut has created a technique to study heart tissues and identify heart disease. The method is similar to how physicians examine cancer tissue under a microscope.
J. Travis Hinson, MD, creates heart-like structures with cells that contain specific genetic mutations, according to a recent article from UConn Today. The cells show the genetics of cardiomyopathies and diseases that could lead to heart failure.
“We basically try to rebuild a little piece of a patient’s heart in a dish,” Hinson said.
By combining cardiac muscle cells with other support cells, he can see how they contract, which simulates how the patient’s heart is contracting, or beating.
To read more about Hinson and his work, follow the link below:
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As a Senior Writer for TriMed Media Group, Katherine primarily focuses on producing news stories, Q&As and features for Cardiovascular Business. She reports on several facets of the cardiology industry, including emerging technology, new clinical trials and findings, and quality initiatives among providers. She is based out of TriMed's Chicago office and holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Columbia College Chicago. Her work has appeared in Modern Healthcare, Crain's Chicago Business and The Detroit News. She joined TriMed in 2016.