Researchers develop gene therapy to combat heart arrhythmias

Researchers from Amsterdam UMC and Johns Hopkins University have made progress in gene therapy for cardiac arrhythmias. Their study, published in the European Heart Journal, introduces a small gene that could improve heart function and prevent arrhythmias. The gene, called SCN10a-short (S10s), can be delivered into heart cells using a viral vector. This method has shown promise in animal models and human heart cells, leading to faster electrical conduction in the heart. To advance this research, the team has established a spin-off company, Pacing Cure, to expedite clinical applications. Future studies will be supported by the European Innovation Council and the Dutch Heart Foundation.