Many people suffer from atherosclerosis, especially in developed countries – and sometimes with deadly consequences. The buildup of fatty deposits inside the arterial blood vessels leads to strokes and heart attacks. Now, a new method is designed to get to the root of the problem, and with the help of nanoparticles inject new turbo replacement cells into the blood vessels which are intended to exert their curative effect and control blood pressure once they are at their target destination. In this interview with MEDICA.de, assistant professor Daniela Wenzel explains how this gene replacement therapy works and how much more research is still needed before it can be used in human beings.
Daniela Wenzel: In the case of atherosclerosis, the endothelial function is impaired. Normally the thin layer of cells of the endothelium lines the interior surfaces of blood vessels and is also extremely important for the production of nitric oxide (NO). While NO is one of the major mediators of vascular relaxation and lowers blood pressure, NO also prevents thrombosis inside of blood vessels.
Read the complete interview with assistant professor Daniela Wenzel at MEDICA-tradefair.com!