PHA research initiatives have helped inform two new research papers that increase understanding of pulmonary hypertension.
PHA-grant recipient Catherine Simpson (pictured left) of Johns Hopkins University explored the kynurenine pathway’s involvement in systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension. University of California-SF researchers, led by Jacqueline DesJardin (pictured right), looked into PHA Registry data to explore why men’s survival rates are worse than women’s, despite having more favorable baseline characteristics.
Simpson sheds light on the kynurenine pathway’s link to disease severity and survival times for people at risk of systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension. The kynurenine pathway is the body’s main route to metabolize the amino acid tryptophan, which is essential for energy, immunity and brain function.
Her study, published in the American Journal of Physiology Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology, used data from the PVDomics project and was partly funded by the PHA’s Aldrighetti Research Award for Young Investigators.
Simpson’s findings suggest that monitoring the TDO2 gene’s activity could lead to earlier diagnosis and the development of new drugs or treatments for PAH.
“This groundbreaking work not only enhances our understanding of PAH but also offers hope for novel diagnostic and treatment strategies,” says Elizabeth Joseloff, PHA’s vice president of quality care and research.
DesJardin’s paper, published in the Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, addresses a significant phenomenon in PH research: the sex paradox.
“This intriguing observation underscores the need for further investigation into gender-specific factors influencing PAH outcomes,” Joseloff says. “Dr. DesJardin’s work not only highlights an important area for future research but also emphasizes the complexity of PH and the necessity for tailored approaches to patient care.”
Hear from DesJardin at PHA 2024 International PH Conference and Scientific Sessions, Aug. 15-18, in Indianapolis, where DesJardin be a presenter and moderator.
“Her dedication to advancing PH research is truly commendable, and we are grateful for her valuable contributions to the field,” Joseloff says.
