Trainee investigates the mechanism behind serious heart condition

Like Parkinson’s disease, ATTR-CM is caused by a buildup of misfolded proteins. In this case, the culprit is transthyretin. Under normal conditions, transthyretin circulates in the bloodstream, transporting thyroid hormone and vitamin A. When it misfolds, it can form amyloid deposits in the heart, impairing its ability to function and sometimes leading to heart failure.