menshealth

In a healthy young heart, most of the cells are made up of myocytes. These are specialized cells that work together in order to allow the heart muscle to contract. However, another type of cell called fibroblasts, makes up about 30 per cent of the muscle mass. These cells provide rigidity to the heart muscle and help keep the muscle in place.

As we age, the balance between the two types of muscle cell begins to shift. The rigid fibroblast cells begin to dominate until they reach a point where the heart muscle can become dangerously inflexible. When the proportion of fibroblasts reaches 70 per cent of muscle mass, a heart attack is imminent.

Until recently it has been almost impossible to distinguish between the two types of cell, even by using sophisticated techniques such as MRI scans. Now, Dr. Sharon Zlochiver of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Tel Aviv University, has found a way to detect the cells by looking at the electrical signals that occur between them. The technique is completely non-invasive and the results can be scanned and even sent by fax or email to specialists for consultation.

This new technique provides a mathematical model that allows doctors to accurately predict the occurrence of a heart attack. In so doing it provides time to more accurately plan preventative treatments or prepare specific treatment in the event of a heart attack.

The research was published in the Biophysical Journal.

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