Cardiac fibrosis and fibroblast phenotypes in heart failure: probing heterogeneity and pathways for reversibility

Cardiac fibrosis is a pathological condition characterized by the extensive deposition of fibrillar collagen in the myocardial interstitium leading to heart failure. Activated Fibroblasts (Myofibroblasts, MyoFb) are the main effector cells in this process. Recent studies suggest that the broad functional diversity played by MyoFb reflects their phenotypic heterogeneity. By utilizing RNA sequencing with single cell resolution, we aim to identify the different sub-types of MyoFb in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy patients. Furthermore, we aim to target specific molecular pathways to reverse adverse effects of fibrosis without compromising cardiac function.