Currently, hearts from donors aged over 65 are not accepted for donation due to the likelihood of a poor clinical outcome. While hearts age at different rates, age isn’t necessarily the best indicator of heart health.
Newcastle University researchers are working to develop a test which may help clinicians determine quickly whether a donor heart may still be suitable for transplant. With around 320 people currently waiting for a lifesaving heart transplant, it is hoped this new test would help to increase the number of hearts available.
The research has shown that people with heart disease have more senescent – or ‘zombie’ – cells than those without, after they found higher levels of ‘zombie’ cell markers in their blood.
‘Zombie’ cells aren’t dead, but they don’t work as they should. They release molecules which can impact neighbouring cells, turning these into ‘zombie’ cells too. They also increase the amount of inflammation and cause scar tissue to...