Contractile and relaxant effects of b2- and b1-adrenoceptors in human heart: blockade by a third generation b-blocker [ 2002 - 2004 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: A/Pr Peter Molenaar (Principal investigator) ,  E/Pr Malcolm West

Brief description The force and the duration of each heart beat can be modified in disease states affecting the heart. They can also be modified by chemicals which occur naturally in the body. Two of the most important naturally occurring chemicals which affect the function of the heart are (-)-noradrenaline and (-)-adrenaline. These chemicals and others which have been synthesized and optimized can also be used therapeutically. They work by activating proteins which occur on the cell surface, called b-adrenoceptors. When activated, b-adrenoceptors cause an increase in the force of each heart beat and a reduction in the duration of each heart beat. This may be an advantage in conditions where the heart beat is too long. In this study we propose to map the biochemical pathways through which b-adrenoceptors affect each heart beat. The therapeutic management of heart failure has been revolutionized by the use of compounds which block b-adrenoceptors. One such drug, carvedilol is currently used in this country. The way in which it works may not be fully understood. In preliminary experiments we have identified a novel mechanism for carvedilol directly in human heart in which it may work and contribute to it's beneficial effects in the management of heart failure. Our studies will focus on this finding.

Funding Amount $AUD 136,320.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant