A groundbreaking study has uncovered a key cellular signal that may slow the progression of heart failure, a condition affecting millions worldwide. Researchers have identified a harmful population of heart fibroblasts that emerge only in failing hearts and actively worsen heart muscle function.

The team discovered that these fibroblasts use the MYC-CXCL1-CXCR2 signaling pathway to disrupt cardiomyocyte activity. Blocking this pathway in laboratory studies reduced the harmful effects, suggesting a promising new route for therapy.

This study points to a new way to tackle heart failure, not just by treating symptoms, but by targeting the underlying cellular communication that drives the disease,” said a senior author of the study.

The findings open the door to potential treatments that could slow heart failure progression and improve quality of life for patients worldwide.