c-Myc: an emerging participant in heart failure

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Molecular Oncology
• Translational Medicine

Background:

• Heart failure (HF) pathogenesis is complex and incompletely understood, hindering effective treatment.
• The transcription factor c-Myc, known for its role in cancer, is increasingly implicated in non-oncological diseases like HF.
• c-Myc regulates critical cellular processes relevant to HF, including cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, metabolism, and regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current research on the role of c-Myc in heart failure.
• To discuss c-Myc's involvement in HF pathogenesis, clinical significance, and therapeutic potential.
• To explore the influence of traditional Chinese medicine on c-Myc in the context of HF.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on c-Myc and heart failure.
• Analysis of c-Myc's diverse functions in various pathological contexts of HF.
• Examination of preclinical research and potential for clinical translation.

Main Results:

• c-Myc is extensively involved in the development and progression of heart failure.
• Its functional effects are context-dependent, varying with disease stage and expression levels.
• Current understanding is largely based on preclinical data, highlighting the need for further investigation.

Conclusions:

• c-Myc presents a complex, context-dependent role in heart failure pathogenesis.
• Precise targeting strategies, understanding optimal expression and timing, and exploring mechanisms are crucial for clinical translation.
• Traditional Chinese medicine may offer potential avenues for modulating c-Myc's effects in HF.