Dr. Tisdall studies the impact of COVID-19 on the heart and how certain medications, like famotidine, can alleviate symptoms of the virus. His research has revealed that many patients experience heart problems post-infection, often due to reduced blood flow rather than inflammation. Tisdall also explores how famotidine, a common drug for heartburn, could affect immune responses and potentially serve as a low-cost treatment option for COVID-19 patients.
Key findings
In a study of 71 heart specimens from post-COVID-19 patients, many showed signs of localized cell death not linked to inflammation or small blood clots.
Famotidine may help reduce COVID-19 symptoms by modulating immune cells, presenting a promising treatment avenue with its affordability and availability.
The research indicates that COVID-19-related heart issues might be primarily driven by reduced blood flow rather than previously established causes.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Tisdall study heart problems related to COVID-19?
Yes, he investigates the heart complications many people face after contracting COVID-19.
What treatments has Dr. Tisdall researched for COVID-19?
He has studied the effects of famotidine, a heartburn medication, on managing COVID-19 symptoms.
Is Dr. Tisdall's work relevant to patients recovering from COVID-19?
Absolutely, his findings on cardiac issues can guide treatment for patients recovering from COVID-19.
Publications in plain English
COVID-19: Famotidine, Histamine, Mast Cells, and Mechanisms.
2021
Frontiers in pharmacology
Malone RW, Tisdall P, Fremont-Smith P, Liu Y, Huang XP +20 more
Plain English This study examined how the drug famotidine, usually used to treat heartburn, might help reduce symptoms of COVID-19. Researchers found that famotidine can work through a specific mechanism related to histamine, a substance in the body that can cause inflammation. This matters because, unlike other COVID-19 treatments, famotidine is already widely available and affordable, making it a promising option for helping patients manage symptoms.
Who this helps: This helps patients suffering from COVID-19.
Models for COVID-19 Early Cardiac Pathology Following SARS-CoV-2 Infection.
2021
International journal of infectious diseases : IJID : official publication of the International Society for Infectious Diseases
Fremont-Smith M, Gherlone N, Smith N, Tisdall P, Ricke DO
Plain English This study looked at the heart problems some people experience after being infected with COVID-19. Researchers examined 71 heart specimens and found that many had signs of localized cell death, which was not linked to inflammation (myocarditis) or small blood clots (microthrombi). They believe this cell damage may be due to reduced blood flow and lack of oxygen, potentially caused by an immune response or direct viral infection, rather than the previously recognized factors.
Who this helps: This research aids doctors in understanding and treating heart issues in COVID-19 patients.
COVID-19: Famotidine, Histamine, Mast Cells, and Mechanisms.
2020
Research square
Malone RW, Tisdall P, Fremont-Smith P, Liu Y, Huang XP +17 more
Plain English This study looked at how famotidine, a common heartburn medication, might help with COVID-19 symptoms. Researchers found that famotidine could work by influencing how certain immune cells called mast cells behave and release histamine. This matters because it could lead to new treatment options for COVID-19, especially since there are currently no effective preventive measures available.
Who this helps: This helps patients dealing with COVID-19.
Ultrasonographic and surgical findings of a gastric hyperplastic polyp resulting in pyloric obstruction in an 11-week-old French Bulldog.
2009
Australian veterinary journal
Kuan S, Hoffmann K, Tisdall P
Plain English This study focused on an 11-week-old French Bulldog that was experiencing severe vomiting after meals. Doctors found a 1 x 2 cm growth in the dog's stomach that was blocking food from passing through. They successfully removed the obstruction through surgery, which resolved the dog's vomiting issue.
Who this helps: This helps pet owners and veterinarians addressing similar gastrointestinal issues in young dogs.