Update on gene therapy for myocardial ischaemia and left ventricular systolic dysfunction or heart failure

Despite considerable advances in pharmacological, surgical and technology-based cardiovascular therapy, left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure are increasingly prevalent health problems. Recent studies suggest that angiogenic gene therapy can restore perfusion in ischaemic myocardial tissue, and that the transfer of nonangiogenic genes may correct defects in calcium handling that contribute to abnormal contractile function in patients with heart failure; however, large clinical trials of gene therapy for treatment of left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure have yet to be completed, and only a small number of genes have been evaluated in patients. Researchers continue to investigate new genes, combinations of genes and approaches that combine gene and cell therapy, and to develop novel expression vectors and delivery systems; collectively, these refinements promise to improve both patient response and safety.