Innovation Week –  Getting to the heart of sudden death

In the talk, titled ‘Getting to the heart of sudden death’, Professor Semsarian discussed his team’s efforts relating to the investigation and prevention of sudden cardiac death, particularly amongst children and young adults.

Described was the team’s adoption of state-of-the-art genomics techniques, to find and better understand the genes responsible for sudden cardiac death in young people aged 35 years and under. This included use of advanced molecular screening to discover previously concealed cardiomyopathies, new methods involving patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells and adoption of CRISPR gene editing technology.

Critically said Professor Semsarian, the patient is always at the centre of everything that the team does.

“We’re focused on identifying the relevant genetic issues that have led to a sudden cardiac event. We want to be able to provide answers to patients or to their families, and where possible, we can then implement appropriate prevention strategies to help improve health outcomes for impacted individuals,” he said.

In his talk, Professor Semsarian stressed the importance of collaboration in his field, highlighting the benefits of working with a range of experts at the Centenary Institute, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and the University of Sydney to advance knowledge relating to sudden cardiac death in young people.

“Genetic heart disease is a hugely complex area. A collaborative approach enables the acceleration of new insights and treatments to help prevent the tragedy of inherited heart disease claiming yet more young Australian lives,” Professor Semsarian said.

A flagship Sydney Local Health District event, Innovation Week showcases services and innovative ideas that provide the very best care for patients, their families and the community.