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Updated: Jan 27, 2026

Real-time Pressure-volume Analysis of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Mice
Published on: July 2, 2018
Interference: an alteRNAtive therapy following acute myocardial infarction
Michael Monaghan1, Udo Greiser, J Gerard Wall
1Network of Excellence for Functional Biomaterials, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland.
Abstract:
A complex cascade of genomic and proteomic interactions follows myocardial infarction (MI) irrespective of the intervention employed. A potential pharmacological intervention gaining momentum is RNAi therapy. RNAi therapy has been successfully clinically used in the treatment of age-related macular degeneration and cancer, but its translation to the coronary care unit is lacking despite the existence of preclinical proof of concept. Here we review current RNAi approaches and tissue-specific delivery systems that exhibit candidacy as future pharmacological interventions following MI and considerations for improved non-viral delivery to the infarcted myocardium.
Insights
RNAi therapy shows promise for treating myocardial infarction (MI) by targeting genomic and proteomic changes. This review explores current RNAi approaches and delivery systems for the heart, aiming for clinical translation.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Molecular Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Myocardial infarction (MI) triggers complex genomic and proteomic responses.
- RNA interference (RNAi) therapy is a promising pharmacological approach.
- Clinical applications of RNAi exist in other diseases, but not yet for MI.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current RNAi therapeutic strategies for myocardial infarction.
- To examine tissue-specific delivery systems for RNAi in cardiac tissue.
- To discuss considerations for non-viral delivery to the infarcted myocardium.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies on RNAi for MI.
- Analysis of existing RNAi delivery systems and their suitability for cardiac applications.
- Evaluation of non-viral delivery methods for targeting the infarcted heart.
Main Results:
- RNAi therapy has demonstrated preclinical efficacy in MI models.
- Various delivery systems are being investigated for targeted RNAi delivery to the heart.
- Non-viral delivery methods show potential for improved safety and efficacy.
Conclusions:
- RNAi therapy holds significant potential as a future pharmacological intervention for MI.
- Advancements in tissue-specific delivery systems are crucial for clinical translation.
- Further research into optimized non-viral delivery is needed for effective MI treatment.
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