Scientist identify experimental drug to prevent Covid-19-Related Heart Damage

Ateam of scientists have identified an experimental drug that may help prevent Covid-related heart damage. Scientists at the University of Cambridge grew heart cells in the lab using human embryonic stem cells, to understand how the virus infects the heart cells. Crucially, these model heart cells also contained the key components necessary for SARS-CoV-2 infection — in particular, the ACE2 receptor. Using the model, they identified an experimental peptide drug called DX600 which can prevent the virus from entering the heart cells. The findings are published in the journal Communications Biology.

“Using stem cells, we’ve managed to create a model which, in many ways, behaves just like a heart does, beating in rhythm. This has allowed us to look at how the coronavirus infects cells and, importantly, helps us screen possible drugs that might prevent damage to the heart,” said Dr Sanjay Sinha from the Wellcome-MRC Cambridge Stem Cell Institute.

The team showed that some drugs that targeted the proteins involved in SARS-CoV-2 viral entry significantly reduced levels of infection. These included DX600 — an ACE2 peptide antagonist which is a molecule that specifically targets ACE2 and inhibits the activity of peptides that play a role in allowing the virus to break into the cell.

DX600 was around seven times more effective at preventing infection compared to the antibody, though the researchers say this may be because it was used in higher concentrations. The drug did not affect the number of heart cells, implying that it would be unlikely to be toxic.

“The spike protein is like a key that fits into the ‘lock’ on the surface of the cells — the ACE2 receptor — allowing it entry. DX600 acts like gum, jamming the lock’s mechanism, making it much more difficult for the key to turn and unlock the cell door,” said Professor Anthony Davenport from the Department of Medicine and a fellow at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge.

He added that further research is needed on this drug, “but it could provide us with a new treatment to help reduce harm to the heart in patients recently infected with the virus, particularly those who already have underlying heart conditions or who have not been vaccinated.” It may also “help reduce the symptoms of long Covid”.

Medically Speaking Team

Recent Posts

Harness the Power of Rice Water

Rice water, rich in inositol, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, protects hair from sunlight damage and…

18 hours ago

“8 Powerful Herbs and Supplements to Beat Bloating and Boost Your Gut Health Naturally”

Natural Remedies for Bloating: 8 Herbs and Supplements That Work Wonders for Your Gut Health…

18 hours ago

“Unlock the Power of Oil Pulling: Discover How This Simple Practice Improves Oral Health and Freshens Your Breath”

Benefits of Oil Pulling: Stops Bad Breath, Keeps Gums Healthy, But Can't Replace Brushing Oil…

18 hours ago

WHY DO YOU EXPERIENCE RUNNY NOSE AFTER EATING SPICY FOOD?

Spicy food – whether it’s a dash of chili in your curry, a spoonful of…

18 hours ago

“4 Simple Tests to Spot Adulterated Wheat Flour: Protect Your Health with These Easy Checks”

How To Identify Adulterated Wheat Flour? Try These 4 Easy Tests Wheat flour is a…

18 hours ago

“Unlock the Power of Jaggery: 10 Surprising Health Benefits of Eating It After Every Meal”

Reasons That Will Make You Eat Jaggery After Every Meal (Potential Health Benefits Inside) Jaggery,…

18 hours ago