Research
Mechano-regulation of myofibril formation and cardiac remodelling
Funding source(s): | British Heart Foundation |
| Start: 01-01-2015 / End: 31-12-2018 |
| Amount: £501,351 |
Directly incurred staff: | Pragati Pandey |
While chemical cues have well-established roles in guiding cell differentiation, there is growing evidence of a role for mechanical stimuli, such as matrix rigidity during heart development and disease. However, the mechanisms that underlie this mechanical signalling remain elusive. Here we will study this by combining cell biology, biophysics and nanotechnology in a three-tiered approach in which we examine the cardiomyocyte response to A) passive resistance and varying rigidity; B) active force; C) no force. Detailed understanding will lead to novel and valuable insights into mechanisms of cardiac mechanosensing and could result in novel or improved therapeutic strategies for cardiac diseases.