Cardiovascular ageing
As people grow older, their hearts and blood vessels undergo significant changes. This research area focuses on investigating these processes, identifying risk factors and developing strategies to prevent or slow the progression of cardiovascular diseases.
Why does this area matter
Age is one of the most critical risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Changes to the heart muscle, blood vessels and blood itself can lead to heart failure, arrhythmias or vascular calcification. As the population grows older, the number of affected individuals is increasing. There is therefore an urgent need for concepts that improve our understanding of ageing processes in the cardiovascular system and enable them to be targeted therapeutically.
Our research approach
We analyse the molecular and cellular changes that occur during ageing and study how these changes contribute to cardiovascular disease. We use state-of-the-art imaging, genomic and cell research methods to identify mechanisms that can be leveraged for preventive or therapeutic approaches.
Additionally, we develop biomarkers that reveal early signs of cardiovascular ageing. These markers can help identify patients at risk early on and enable targeted treatment. Concurrently, we are testing new interventions, ranging from anti-inflammatory approaches to innovative implants, which aim to preserve heart and vessel function with advancing age.
Spokespersons
- Christiane Ott, Berlin
- Christina Magnussen, North (Lead Spokesperson)
- Guillermo Luxán, RheinMain
Are you conducting research within or outside the DZHK and would like to connect with this focus area? Please contact: