First gene therapy trial launched for heart patients with mechanical pumps
Tuesday, August 12, 2014 - 05:02
in Health & Medicine
For the first time in the world, a patient with a mechanical heart pump has received a new gene therapy for heart failure. This is the start of a new clinical trial that will assess gene therapy for patients with heart pumps and provide detailed insight on its impact on the heart muscle. Heart failure occurs when the heart no longer pumps blood effectively. Some individuals with an advanced heart failure can be fitted with a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD), which supports the failing heart and aims to restore normal blood flow.