Recent advances in cardiac gene therapy strategies targeting advanced heart failure

Abstract

Heart failure (HF) is the common sequela of many cardiovascular diseases. Although device-based treatments and pharmacotherapies have improved patient survival, current standard therapies are far from optimal, and do not address the molecular mechanisms underlying HF pathogenesis. In the last decade, cardiac gene therapy has emerged as an innovative experimental therapeutic strategy for the treatment of advanced HF. Increasing insights into the molecular pathophysiology and improvements in gene targeting approaches provide novel therapeutic modalities. In this review we focus on the recent developments in cardiac gene therapy strategies targeting advanced HF. We emphasize ongoing clinical trials, and discuss the limitations and future evolution of the field.