Scientists at the University of Reading are to investigate whether a targeted antioxidant drug could be used to prevent heart attacks.
Most heart attacks are caused by atherosclerosis, and the University's Prof David Leake has been awarded £184,481 by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) to confirm and understand how the antioxidant drug cysteamine can reduce atherosclerosis by targeting LDL oxidation.
Previous research by Prof Leake and his team has shown that LDL oxidation can take place in lysosomes within macrophages and that cysteamine can inhibit LDL oxidation within lysosomes. However, it is not fully understood how LDL oxidation within lysosomes can trigger inflammation.
In this project, Professor Leake will see how the cysteamine reduces inflammatory signals and decreases atherosclerosis in mice. Currently, cysteamine is used to treat a rare metabolic condition called cystinosis.
Prof David Leake said: “Antioxidants have long been thought to have the potential to protect people against heart disease. However, the results of clinical trials have usually been disappointing."
“However, having identified a new mechanism that creates this oxidised or rancid fat, we believe we can target it with this antioxidant drug to produce the benefits which have so far been elusive."
“If this study proves successful, it would suggest that cysteamine could be used as a new treatment to prevent heart disease and ultimately save lives.”
Dr Subreena Simrick, Senior Research Adviser at the BHF, said: “Building on already exciting research, this study is an important step in examining whether this existing drug could be repurposed for the fight against heart disease."
“Worryingly, the ability of the BHF to fund crucial projects like this is under threat. Coronavirus had had a devastating impact on our fundraising. That’s why – together with other medical research charities – we are calling on the Government to commit to a Life Sciences Charity Partnership Fund."
