New Insights into the Role of Bacteria in Heart Attacks
A recent study has revealed that infections may trigger myocardial infarction. This research uncovers the presence of a biofilm composed of bacteria within cholesterol-laden atherosclerotic plaques in coronary artery disease, raising questions about the role of bacteria in heart diseases.
Recent Discoveries in Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease is one of the most common and serious diseases worldwide, often being a leading cause of death. Previous hypotheses suggested that the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) was the main cause of events leading to these diseases. However, the current study, led by Professor Pekka Karhunen, proposes a potential role for bacteria in this complex process.
The findings showed that atherosclerotic plaques might contain a biofilm of dormant bacteria. These bacteria are protected from the patient’s immune system and antibiotics due to the difficulty of penetrating the biofilm.
How Can Infections Trigger Myocardial Infarction?
The study explains that a viral infection or another external trigger can activate the biofilm, leading to bacterial proliferation and an inflammatory response. This response may cause the fibrous cap of the plaque to rupture, resulting in clot formation and myocardial infarction.
The validity of these results was confirmed by developing an antibody targeting the discovered bacteria, which unexpectedly revealed biofilm structures in arterial tissues.
The Study’s Importance in Developing New Treatments
The new discoveries suggest the potential for developing new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for myocardial infarction, enhancing the possibility of preventing coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction through vaccination.
This study also opens new avenues for a deeper understanding of the role of bacteria in heart diseases, which may lead to improved treatment and prevention methods in the future.
Scientific Collaboration and Research Significance
This study was conducted through joint efforts between the Universities of Tampere and Oulu, the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, and the University of Oxford. Tissue samples were obtained from individuals who died from sudden cardiac death and from patients who underwent surgery to clean carotid and peripheral arteries.
The research is part of a large-scale European project involving 11 countries, with significant financial support from the Finnish Cardiovascular Research Foundation and the Jane and Aatos Erkko Foundation.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study highlights a potential role for bacteria in triggering myocardial infarction, paving the way for future research and new therapeutic and preventive strategies. By discovering the genetic material of several types of oral bacteria within atherosclerotic plaques, the study provides direct evidence of the role of bacteria in heart diseases, which may lead to improved healthcare for patients in the future.