Carotid Artery Plaque Diagnostic Treatment
Tulane researchers have developed a new blood test that looks for specific biomarkers to identify when atherosclerotic plaques are about to rupture.
The Problem
Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular condition where fatty deposits build up in arteries, with the most dangerous complication being when these plaques rupture and cause strokes or heart attacks. Current approaches to detect unstable plaques primarily rely on imaging techniques like ultrasound and angiography, which can locate plaques but struggle to predict when plaques may rupture. The medical industry urgently needs more precise, non-invasive diagnostic methods that can identify unstable plaques before they rupture, allowing doctors to prevent devastating strokes and heart attacks.
The Solution
Tulane researchers have developed a new blood test that looks for specific biomarkers to identify when atherosclerotic plaques are about to rupture. The test measures three key markers in the blood called miR-221, miR-222, and circR-284. The ratio of these markers can identify patients whose artery deposits are becoming unstable, allowing for earlier treatment to prevent strokes and heart attacks.
The Opportunity
This approach not only helps with early detection but also offers potential new treatments that can target these genetic markers directly, possibly stabilizing the plaques. By combining both detection and treatment possibilities in one approach, this method offers a complete solution that bridges the gap between finding problems early and treating them effectively, ultimately improving care for patients with heart disease.
