MSc by Research in Sports and Exercise Sciences - Exercise and The Failing Heart

University of Leeds

This is a joint research theme with the Cardiovascular and Sport and Exercise Sciences research group. Our research investigates how the multiple organ and system impairments characteristic of heart failure integrate to cause fatigue and exercise intolerance, and limit quality of life and ultimately survival. We explore the mechanisms by which exercise exerts its benefits and the optimal training regimes that achieve these effects. Our approaches range from the measurement of gene expression to in vivo organ structure and function, complemented by in silico modelling. We use animal models and human participants for our research in this area. In rodent models of heart failure, we investigate mechanisms for remodelling of cardiac structure and mechanical-electrical activity, the ways in which these are reversed by exercise, and how peripheral effects on skeletal muscle may be alleviated. In human participants with heart failure, we explore how exercise-based interventions can reverse detrimental remodelling of cardiac structure, alleviate pulmonary hypertension and improve respiratory muscle function. We measure cardiac, peripheral and pulmonary vascular, and endothelial function using ultrasound, neuromuscular function using artificial nerve stimulation, and integrated cardiopulmonary and neuromuscular exercise performance with breath-by-breath pulmonary gas exchange.