Role of phosphoinositide 3-kinases in regulating cardiac function.

Phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are important signaling proteins in the heart. Class IA PI3Ks (p110alpha, beta) are critical regulators of physiological heart growth and cell survival, and are generally considered to be beneficial for heart function. In contrast, activation of class IB PI3K(p110gamma) is detrimental for heart function, reducing cardiac contractility.

The protective effects of exercise and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (p110alpha) in the failing heart.

Despite the development of a wide range of therapies, heart failure remains a leading cause of death in Western society. New therapies are needed to help combat this debilitating condition. Exercise is becoming an increasingly important feature of rehabilitation programmes for patients with heart failure.

Promoting physiological hypertrophy in the failing heart.

1. Heart failure rates have reached epidemic proportions in Western society. 2.