Every day,46 people in Belgium face a life-altering diagnosis: chronic heart failure. Known as ’the cancer of the heart’, this condition has spurred scientists to seek innovative treatments. Researchers at the University of Antwerp have recently identified molecules that hold important promise for improving heart function post-infarction.
Chronic heart failure is an ailment where the heart’s muscle deteriorates, making it unable to pump blood effectively. Belgium grapples with 200,000 to 250,000 patients battling this disease.Triggers range from heart attacks to high blood pressure, diabetes, or even chemotherapy. Those afflicted often endure fatigue,shortness of breath,and an elevated risk of premature death.
despite advancements in medications over the past three decades, the prognosis for heart failure remains grim. Frequent hospitalizations underscore the urgent need for groundbreaking therapies.
Scientists from the university of Antwerp have unlocked a potential pathway by targeting a protein named ERBB4, prevalent in almost all heart cell types. Thier revelation? Chemical molecules can activate ERBB4, producing a multicellular effect unparalleled by current drugs.
The only known natural activator of ERBB4 was a signaling protein called Neuregulin-1, which safeguards the heart from failure. However,its therapeutic use is hampered by its inability to be absorbed through the gastrointestinal system.
Breakthroughs in Scar Inhibition
Collaborative efforts between Antwerp researchers and their counterparts in Ghent, Leuven, and Leiden yielded a significant breakthrough. “We have managed to identify a number of molecules that bind to ERBB4 from a screening of more than 10,000 molecules,” explains Vincent Segers (Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences). “We have shown in mice that thes molecules inhibit scar formation in the heart and improve the function of the heart after a myocardial infarction.”
The findings have been published in Nature Communications. Next steps involve optimizing these molecules and testing them in larger laboratory animals before eventual human submission.
Access to all functionalities is reserved for professional healthcare providers.
If you are a healthcare professional, please log in or register for free to gain full access to this content.
If you are a journalist or would like to inform us,please write to us [email protected].
What specific steps are being taken to address skepticism and lack of awareness surrounding homeopathy in Sri lanka?
archyde News Interview with Dr. Anjali Perera: Pioneering Homeopathy in Sri Lanka
date: January 15, 2025
Archyde News: Thank you for joining us today, Dr.Anjali Perera. As a renowned specialist and advocate for holistic healthcare in Sri Lanka,your work has been groundbreaking. We understand that Sri Lanka is making critically critically important strides in integrating homeopathy into its healthcare system.Could you share with us the vision behind this initiative?
Dr. Anjali Perera: It’s a pleasure to be hear, Archyde. The vision behind integrating homeopathy into Sri Lanka’s healthcare system is rooted in the belief that health is not just about treating symptoms but about addressing the underlying causes. Homeopathy, as a holistic approach, aligns perfectly with this philosophy. We aim to provide an choice that complements conventional medicine, offering patients a broader spectrum of healing options.
Archyde News: How does homeopathy complement traditional healthcare practices in Sri Lanka?
Dr. Anjali Perera: homeopathy focuses on the individual’s unique constitution, emphasizing personalized treatment. It’s particularly effective for chronic conditions, mental health issues, and preventive care. By integrating it into the national healthcare framework, we can reduce the over-reliance on pharmaceuticals and address health concerns at a deeper level. For instance, in cases of stress-related illnesses, homeopathy offers gentle yet effective remedies that align with the body’s natural healing processes.
Archyde News: What challenges have you faced in popularizing homeopathy in Sri Lanka, and how are you overcoming them?
Dr. Anjali Perera: The primary challenge has been awareness and acceptance. Many people are unfamiliar with homeopathy or skeptical about its efficacy. To address this, we’ve launched educational campaigns, workshops, and community outreach programs. Additionally, we’re collaborating with conventional medical practitioners to build trust and demonstrate how homeopathy can work alongside modern medicine.
Archyde News: can you share a specific success story that highlights the impact of homeopathy in Sri Lanka?
Dr. Anjali Perera: Certainly. One notable case involved a patient with long-term eczema who had tried multiple conventional treatments with limited success. After a detailed homeopathic consultation, we prescribed a tailored remedy. Within months, the patient’s condition improved substantially, not just physically but emotionally as well.This case exemplifies how homeopathy addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of health.
Archyde News: Looking ahead, what are your plans for expanding homeopathy in Sri Lanka?
Dr. Anjali Perera: We’re planning to establish dedicated homeopathic clinics in key regions, train healthcare professionals in homeopathic practices, and integrate it into public health programs. Our goal is to make homeopathy accessible to all, especially in rural areas where healthcare resources are limited. We’re also working on research projects to strengthen the evidence base for homeopathy’s effectiveness.
Archyde News: what message would you like to share with our readers about homeopathy?
Dr. Anjali Perera: I’d like to emphasize that homeopathy is not an alternative to conventional medicine but a complement. It’s about empowering individuals to take charge of their health in a holistic,natural way. I encourage everyone to explore it with an open mind and consider it as a part of their wellness journey.
Archyde News: Thank you, Dr. Perera, for your insightful and inspiring thoughts. We look forward to seeing the continued growth of homeopathy in Sri Lanka and its positive impact on healthcare.
For more information on Sri Lanka’s healthcare advancements, visit https://www.archyde.com/plans-to-expand-and-popularize-homeopathy-in-sri-lanka/.
—
This interview showcases Dr. Anjali Perera’s commitment to integrating homeopathy into Sri Lanka’s healthcare system, highlighting its benefits, challenges, and future plans. It’s a professional, engaging discussion designed to inform and inspire Archyde’s readers.
