Women are at a disadvantage when it comes to traditional cardiac research.
The cardiovascular system has the most differences between men and women after the reproductive system. Yet, historically, most cardiac research has been based on men’s hearts. This leaves a significant knowledge gap when it comes to heart disease in women.
Dr. Inna Rabinovich-Nikitin, Principal Investigator at the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences (ICS) at St. Boniface Hospital, is working to close this gap by pioneering Manitoba’s first dedicated women’s heart health research program, building on the work of many colleagues. One area of her research is focused on studying how heart failure presents differently in men and women, providing insight for future sex-specific treatments.
Slicing the knowledge gap
For these studies, it’s essential to have the best and latest lab equipment. To do histological staining, which highlights important features in tissue samples, researchers need to cut the heart tissue into very thin samples before examining them under a microscope. Only a few pieces of equipment are able to do this.
Thanks to donor generosity, Rabinovich-Nikitin was able to purchase one of these pieces – a Leica cryostat – allowing her and her team to identify disease markers and areas of concern.
“This cryostat is an essential research tool that will significantly help advance research in women’s heart health,” said Rabinovich-Nikitin. “I am so grateful to Foundation donors for making this possible, and for playing such an important role in our efforts to better understand, treat, and prevent heart disease in women.”
From the lab to the bedside
As part of the women’s heart health research initiative, Rabinovich-Nikitin and fellow researchers collaborate with physicians to translate their findings into clinical care. Doing so changes policies, promotes lifestyle choices and prevention strategies, and leads to better treatments for women living with heart disease.
This cutting-edge cryostat machine isn’t limited to just her lab, however.
“This device is also available for all researchers to use in the Institute. It will play a pivotal role in generating new knowledge and groundbreaking discoveries in all areas of cardiac research here at St. B.”