What is the Origin of Pathological Cardiac Remodeling?

The term combines 'Pathological,' indicating a disease-related and detrimental process, with 'Cardiac Remodeling,' the physiological concept of the heart adapting its structure over time. It is a fundamental concept in cardiology, highlighting the critical shift from a temporary, adaptive structural change to a chronic, harmful, and irreversible one.

What is the Mechanism of Pathological Cardiac Remodeling?

The mechanism is driven by sustained neurohormonal activation, primarily involving the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) and the sympathetic nervous system, in response to increased hemodynamic load. Angiotensin II and aldosterone promote fibroblast proliferation and excessive collagen deposition, leading to myocardial fibrosis and significant stiffness. This process detrimentally alters the geometry of the heart chambers, reducing stroke volume and ejection fraction, and creating an irreversible, progressive cycle of worsening cardiac function and eventual decompensation.

Pathological Cardiac Remodeling

Meaning

Pathological Cardiac Remodeling describes the adverse, detrimental structural and functional changes that occur in the myocardium (heart muscle) and cardiac chambers in response to chronic physiological stress, such as sustained hypertension, myocardial infarction, or chronic hormonal imbalance. This process involves changes in cardiomyocyte size, extensive interstitial fibrosis, and chamber dilation or hypertrophy, ultimately leading to severely impaired contractility and the clinical syndrome of heart failure. It fundamentally represents a maladaptive response to chronic and overwhelming physiological insult.

A central smooth sphere surrounded by porous, textured beige orbs, symbolizing the intricate endocrine system and its cellular health. From the core emerges a delicate, crystalline structure, representing the precision of hormone optimization and regenerative medicine through peptide stacks and bioidentical hormones for homeostasis and vitality.

Do Growth Hormone Secretagogues Affect Long-Term Heart Rhythm?

Growth hormone secretagogues can alter long-term heart rhythm by modifying the heart's structure and electrical signaling, with risks varying by peptide.

∞ IGF-1
∞ Ibutamoren MK-677
∞ Pathological Cardiac Remodeling