Congenital heart defects and the long-term health development of those affected have not been researched enough. Due to improved treatment options, more and more patients are reaching adulthood, increasing the need for new scientific knowledge.
Prof. Panáková and her team at the University of Kiel are investigating the molecular mechanisms behind congenital heart defects. Their goal is to understand the genetic variants that alter the heart structure. This understanding is crucial to assess the disease's course better and develop customised therapies.
Applying the results of basic research in a clinical setting
‘We use the zebrafish model to study human diseases, especially congenital heart defects,’ explains the biologist. She has already gained extensive experience with this model at the Max Delbrück Center at the DZHK site in Berlin, where she conducted research before being appointed in Kiel. There, she focused on the molecular processes during early heart development. ‘I can now apply the knowledge we have gained over the years from this basic research to congenital heart defects,’ says Panáková.
The Clinic for Congenital Heart Defects and Paediatric Cardiology at the University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein on the Kiel campus participates in the Competence Network and the National Register for Congenital Heart Defects, including a biobank. This infrastructure enables scientists worldwide to access patient data and biosamples to research congenital heart defects (CHD).
Prof. Panáková's team can now sequence tissue samples from CHD patients to identify genetic variants and further investigate them in the zebrafish model. Working with clinicians also gives her a deeper insight into how the disease affects other organs and patients' lives.
Panáková says: ‘We can't completely heal the heart, but I hope to work with my colleagues to develop targeted therapies that will significantly improve the lives of those affected.’
„Kinderherzen wollen leben“ e.V.
‘Kinderherzen wollen leben’ e.V. is an association organised on a voluntary basis with the aim of promoting optimal staffing, equipment and facilities for clinical and experimental research projects and training measures to improve the long-term prognosis of children with congenital heart defects. The association was founded 19 years ago by parents whose children were treated at the Children's Heart Center in Kiel, among others. According to board member Hendrik Zloch, the association's main aim is ‘to improve the future opportunities of young patients, but also to show gratitude to the clinic staff by providing financial support for purchases’.
Scientific contact: Prof. Daniela Panáková, Clinic for Congenital Heart Defects and Paediatric Cardiology, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), Kiel Campus, Kiel University, Daniela.Panakova@uksh.de
Kinderherzen wollen leben e. V.:
https://www.kinderherzen-wollen-leben.de
