Collaborators Seek to Develop Biologic Pacemaker

Adult stem cells that have been genetically engineered to express genes for the normal pacemaker function of heart cells will be implanted into specific areas of the heart muscle. Preclinical studies have shown that such engineered cells can communicate directly with heart muscle cells. The engineered cells provide an ionic current that stimulates the heart to generate a heartbeat identical to that caused by the heart's natural pacemaker.

"We are very excited about the scientific possibilities that gene therapy may provide and welcome this association with Columbia and Stony Brook universities,” said Dr. Beverly Lorell, chief medical and technology officer, Guidant Corporation. "Guidant has a history of supporting innovative research that brings new therapy options to physicians and their patients. We look forward to deliberately moving the idea of a biological pacemaker from proof-of-concept to first human application.”



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