Losartan Reduces AML Growth and Heart Damage

A new study has recently revealed that a specific gene therapy can make acute myeloid leukemia (AML) more responsive to chemotherapy. This therapy also protects the heart from the harmful effects of cancer treatments. AML is a common type of leukemia in adults and healthcare professionals perform chemotherapy for it. It can increase the risk of heart damage. In this study, researchers have identified a target called AGTR1 that is responsible for cell reproduction and is found in excessive amounts in the blood cells of leukemia patients. 

This study was recently published in the Journal of Science Translational Medicine. In this study, researchers used losartan medicine on mice. This is a common medicine that is usually used to treat high blood pressure. Researchers used it to block a certain receptor in mice. When researchers observed the results, they found that losartan medicine reduced the growth of cancer in mice. It also protected their heart from damage caused by chemotherapy and helped them live longer. 

Researchers now want to study more about how well losartan medicine works in treating people with leukemia. There were some differences between mice with leukemia and the actual disease in humans. These differences include variations in the immune system, the environment in the bone marrow and how treatments work.  

Researchers will analyze and confirm these findings in human studies to make sure they are applicable and effective for humans too. If they find positive results on humans then they can get losartan medication approved easily and quickly. This is because it is already approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and does not need extensive data about it.  

One of the reputed doctors and researchers of this study said that losartan medicine effectively reduced the growth of AML in mice. This medicine also protects the heart from damage caused by chemotherapy.  

The result of this study clearly shows that losartan medicine effectively reduced the growth of acute myeloid leukemia in mice. It also protected heart and increased their survival period. But there is a need for further research to know how this medicine works for treating AML in humans. This study is very important for humans as it can save many lives.