When someone experiences a stroke, it not only causes immediate damage to the brain but can also have lasting effects on other organs like the heart. Recent research has revealed that the development of various health issues following a stroke may share a common immunological origin. Scientists have identified that the dysfunctions observed in different parts of the body can be traced back to the immunological memory stored in the blood-forming cells located in the bone marrow.
Unveiling the Impact of Strokes on the Immune System
Prof. Arthur Liesz from the Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD) at LMU University Hospital highlighted the lack of studies investigating the influence of brain injuries on overall immunity. In a study published in the journal Cell, Liesz and his team explored the connection between strokes and systemic immunity. Through advanced single-cell sequencing techniques, they identified lasting proinflammatory changes in the genetic material of specific immune cells known as monocytes/macrophages in various organs. These changes lead to alterations in the production of proteins, with the heart being particularly affected, potentially leading to scarring and impaired function.
Potential Therapeutic Solutions on the Horizon
By studying a mouse model, the researchers linked the excessive expression of the protein IL-1b to altered blood formation in the bone marrow and subsequent heart complications. They successfully prevented cardiac issues post-stroke by blocking IL-1b and stopping the migration of proinflammatory cells to the heart. This breakthrough offers hope for developing effective treatments to prevent secondary heart problems following a stroke. The study authors anticipate that the epigenetic processes identified in the brain-heart axis will provide new insights into understanding the development of various conditions associated with IL-1b-mediated effects.
