Approved Research

Genetic and demographic associations of AI-derived cardiac MRI measures of right ventricular and pulmonary pressure measurements in the UK biobank cohort

Lay summary

The right side of the heart, specifically the right ventricle (RV), is essential for circulating blood throughout the body. It pumps blood to the lungs, where it picks up oxygen, before returning it to the left side of the heart. When the RV doesn't function properly, it can be a sign of cardiovascular problems, such as heart failure, high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension), and blockages in the arteries (coronary artery disease). Our research project is focused on understanding the different factors that might affect the RV in a large group of people from the UK Biobank cohort.

To accomplish this, we will use artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to analyze detailed heart images called cardiac MRI scans. These AI methods will help us measure important features of the RV, including its size, thickness (a sign of RV hypertrophy), and how well it contracts (measures of strain and pressure estimates). By obtaining accurate measurements of the RV, we can better understand its role in various cardiovascular diseases.

Once we have collected the data from the heart images, we will use statistical methods to analyze it alongside genetic, demographic, and multiorgan information. This will help us identify factors that are associated with variations in the RV's size and function. Some examples of factors we will investigate include age, sex, lifestyle, and the influence of other organs on the heart's performance.

The primary goal of our research project is to gain insights into the genetic, demographic, and multiorgan factors that contribute to variations in RV size and function. This knowledge could provide valuable information about the underlying mechanisms of RV abnormalities and may inform the development of targeted interventions for heart-related issues.

By better understanding the factors influencing the RV, we hope to identify potential areas for further research and treatment options. This could lead to improved understanding of heart problems and the development of new strategies to address them, ultimately benefiting the well-being of individuals suffering from cardiovascular diseases.