Although the heart contracts spontaneously, the rate and force with which it beats may be modified by the autonomic nervous system. That is, the rate and force of heart muscle contraction may be increased or decreased by the activation of two different sets of nerves. This project will determine how the autonomic nervous system modifies the strength of heart muscle contraction. It will involve the measurement of changes in contractile force, electrical activity and calcium levels within cardiac ....Although the heart contracts spontaneously, the rate and force with which it beats may be modified by the autonomic nervous system. That is, the rate and force of heart muscle contraction may be increased or decreased by the activation of two different sets of nerves. This project will determine how the autonomic nervous system modifies the strength of heart muscle contraction. It will involve the measurement of changes in contractile force, electrical activity and calcium levels within cardiac cells during muscle contraction. The effects of excitatory and inhibitory nerve stimulation on these three parameters will be examined. Results of this study will improve our understanding of how the contraction of heart muscle is controlled and provide an insight into the treatment of heart disease.Read moreRead less
Improving Outcomes For Premature Infants Through Effective Maintenance Of Systemic Blood Flow
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$789,383.00
Summary
Survival rates for preterm babies are increasing, but the rate of disability is still high. Preterm babies may experience inadequate blood flow to the brain, leading to longterm disability. The causes of low blood flow are not known and current treatments are ineffective in nearly half of cases. This study will confirm that low blood flow is the result of immaturity of the structure and-or control of the heart, and will test new treatments targeted to these systems in the baby.