Reference:
Abstract:
The focus of this project are epigenetic mechanisms that underlie the remodeling in the heart in the emergence of hypertrophy and failure and recovery after mechanical unloading.ﾠIn the foreground is the methyl-DNA-binding protein 2 (MeCP2), which specifically recognizes methylated DNA sequences, and thus can modulate gene expression.ﾠIn the continuation phase of this project, the following objectives should be achieved: (1) The importance of MeCP2 for the development and regression of cardiac hypertrophy, dysfunction, and failure to be decrypted using mouse models with inducible expression of MeCP2 or cell-specific deletion of the MECP2 gene.(2) The parent mechanisms, in particular miRNAs that are involved in the regulation of the MeCP2 expression will be identified.ﾠ(3) target genes and mechanisms that mediate the cardiac function of MeCP2, should be decoded.This should be clarified in particular the MeCP2-dependent mechanisms of the development of fibrosis and mitochondrial dysfunction.ﾠ(4) changes in DNA methylation of MeCP2 target genes to be studied in biopsies from hypertrophic and failing human heart in the mouse models as well.ﾠThe elucidation of these processes should contribute to a better understanding of the role of epigenetics in cardiac hypertrophy and recovery.
PROJECT DETAILS
beginning: 2008.
end: 2013.
Country of research: Germany
Counry of funding source: Germany
Funding organization: GermanﾠResearch Foundation
Financing: NATIONAL FUNDINGS – 0 €