Centenary of the UCT Faculty of Health Sciences
Cardioprotection from metabolism to molecules to certainties
Lionel H Opie
Abstract
Starting millions of years ago, the heart developed metabolic and molecular cardioprotective paths. The concept of metabolic protection includes the recent successful early provision of glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) to patients with acute coronary syndromes in the ambulance to inhibit high harmful free-fatty acid levels. Molecular cardioprotective pathways also developed in primeval times. The 2 major paths are the RISK (Reperfusion Injury Salvage Kinases) path and the SAFE (Survival Activating Factor Enhancement) path, on which our group in Cape Town has focused. These paths help to lessen ischaemic-perfusion damage, and may, hypothetically, also be activated by intense exercise.
Author's affiliations
Lionel H Opie, Hatter Institute for Cardiovascular Research in Africa, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory, Cape Town
Keywords
cardioprotection; glucose; insulin; molecular; conditioning;
Cite this article
South African Medical Journal 2012;102(6):491-492.
Article History
Date submitted: 2012-01-13
Date published: 2012-03-02
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