Moshe Bar-Haim : “Heart Disease and Cancer Link Revealed”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. Heart disease and cancer link
2. Heart disease cancer development connection

Researchers at Tel Aviv University (TAU) and the Leviev Cardiothoracic and Vascular Center at the Sheba Medical Center have identified a mechanism that increases the risk of cancer in patients with heart disease. The study reveals that small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) released from the damaged heart promote cancer cell growth throughout the body. This groundbreaking discovery may lead to improved treatment protocols for heart disease patients, considering the heightened cancer risk. The research, funded by the Israel Cancer Association and the Israel Science Foundation, highlights the importance of understanding the link between heart disease and cancer for more effective patient care. Read more at https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.123.066911.

Researchers from Tel Aviv University (TAU) and the Leviev Cardiothoracic and Vascular Center at the Sheba Medical Center have made a groundbreaking discovery that sheds light on the connection between heart disease and cancer. The study, funded by the Israel Cancer Association and the Israel Science Foundation, has revealed a mechanism by which patients with heart disease are at an increased risk of developing cancer.

**The Discovery**

The researchers, led by Prof. Jonathan Leor and his student Tal Caller, found that small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) secreted from a diseased heart to aid in self-healing actually promote the growth of cancer cells when released into the bloodstream. These vesicles contain factors related to inflammation, healing, growth, and changes in the immune system, which contribute to the development of cancer throughout the body.

**The Impact**

In their study published in the medical journal Circulation, Caller explains the significance of their findings: “Patients with heart disease are already at a higher risk of developing cancer, and our research has uncovered the role of sEVs in exacerbating this risk. These tiny particles, released in greater quantities from damaged hearts, have the ability to target cancerous growths in the body.”

**The Experimental Approach**

To test their hypothesis, the researchers inhibited the formation of sEVs in animal models with heart disease and observed a decrease in the risk of cancer. However, this approach had severe side effects, prompting the team to explore alternative strategies. They found that treating the heart with spironolactone, a drug commonly used to treat heart failure, reduced the secretion of sEVs and slowed the growth of cancerous tumors.

**Clinical Implications**

Caller emphasizes the need to consider the risk of cancer in heart patients when designing treatment protocols. By identifying biomarkers that indicate an increased risk of cancer among heart patients, clinicians can tailor their approach to reduce the likelihood of cancer development. While more research is needed to fully understand the connection between heart disease and cancer, the study opens up new possibilities for improving patient care.

**The Significance of the Research**

Moshe Bar-Haim, CEO of the Israel Cancer Association, underscores the importance of funding research that leads to tangible advancements in cancer treatment. The study’s findings have the potential to impact patient care not only in Israel but around the world. By uncovering the role of sEVs in promoting cancer growth in heart patients, the research paves the way for more targeted and effective treatment strategies.

**Conclusion**

The link between heart disease and cancer is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that requires further exploration. The discovery of sEVs as key players in promoting cancer growth highlights the interconnected nature of these diseases and underscores the importance of integrated approaches to patient care. By continuing to investigate the mechanisms at play, researchers can pave the way for innovative solutions that benefit patients worldwide.