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BRC involved in HUF 1 billion EU-funded domestic research program for the examination of heart and skeletal muscle

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A research program on the adaptation, performance and regeneration of the heart and skeletal muscle, led by the University of Szeged and in which experts from the ELKH Szeged Biological Research Center (BRC) and the University of Debrecen also took part, has been completed. The researchers spent a total of five years on the project, which was implemented with a HUF 1 billion EU grant, and the application of the results obtained during the research has already started with the involvement of partners from the private sector.

A more accurate understanding of the basics of so-called skeletal muscle regeneration contributes to the prevention of certain muscle diseases, injuries, overload and the negative changes associated with aging. Research in this field also facilitates the prevention of myocardial damage from certain therapeutic side effects and the treatment of injuries.

According to experts, the results of the program may be primarily helpful for radiotherapy of chest tumors and therapy for chronic renal failure. The researchers specifically looked at hormonal differences between men and women and the effects of exercise and nutrition on myocardium.

The rhythmic contraction of the heart muscle is the result of the coordinated work of complex electrical systems. Failure of these systems to function properly can lead to arrhythmias or even sudden cardiac death, which also causes significant losses in social and economic terms.

Research has contributed to a better understanding of these electrical systems and to the development of possible new solutions for drug interference. Another significant goal of the program was to help encourage the next generation of scientists, and more than ten young researchers also prepared and defended their doctoral dissertations in connection with the project. The tender has helped with the creation and publication of more than 50 high-level scientific papers, and also laid the foundations for several new domestic and international collaborations.