Experimental drug may protect the heart in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Researchers at the University of South Florida have identified that the experimental drug Setanaxib may protect cardiac function in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The study suggests that targeting the NOX4 enzyme could reduce heart enlargement and tissue scarring.
Why it matters
This discovery offers a potential new therapeutic pathway for managing the severe heart complications associated with a fatal genetic disease.
by Kurt Loft, University of South Florida
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Andrew Zinin
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add as preferred source Graphical abstract. Credit: Molecular Therapy (2026). DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2026.06.033 Researchers at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine have identified a potential pathway that could protect cardiac function in people with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a progressive and fatal genetic disease that weakens the body's muscles. Published in Molecular Therapy , the new study examined the effects of the experimental drug Setanaxib in two preclinical models of DMD.
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