Scientists find new way to recover from heart attack

An increase in the activity of specific immune cells of heart immediately after a heart attack can reduce the risk of developing heart failure, experts at the University of Washington Medical School have found.

The researchers have found a way to supercharge the macrophages, increasing their abilities to digest and dispose of damaged heart tissue left in the wake of a heart attack. 

“The key is in stimulating specialized sacs called lysosomes, which are inside immune cells,” Xinhua reported.

The digestion and waste disposal take place inside lysosomes and scientists have activated the TFEB molecule, which led to the production of more lysosomes in macrophages and to increase the efficiency of fat processing. Thus, macrophages quickly got rid of defective heart cells, preventing them from provoking heart failure and reducing inflammation.