The DesMI Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An Observational, pilot study investigating plasma Desmosine levels in patients with acte Myocardial Infarction
IRAS ID
292356
Contact name
Anna Maria Choy
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Dundee
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Desmosine is a breakdown product of elastin, which is an important protein that confers elastic function to various tissues such as lungs, skin and arteries. Recently the relationship between plasma desmosine and clinical outcomes was investigated in independent clinical studies involving patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, bronchiectasis, and abdominal aortic aneurysm. A striking observation from all of these studies was the consistent relationship between the elevation of plasma desmosine and increased global cardiovascular risk and mortality. We also know that heart attack is mainly caused by coronary artery disease. In coronary artery disease, arteries become narrowed by gradual build-up f fatty deposits called atheroma. A tear in the atheroma can then cause heart attack. Recent experimental studies also showed that elastin fragmentation plays a key role in this process.
In light of these findings, desmosine may prove to be an invaluable biomarker for heart attack. The aim of this study is to test desmosine levels in patients with heart attack compared to those with no heart attack. This study will then underpin further studies into the role of desmosine as a prognostic biomarker in heart attack.REC name
South West - Central Bristol Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/SW/0013
Date of REC Opinion
7 Jan 2021
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion