Heart Failure with Improved Ejection Fraction: From Myocardial Recovery to Therapeutic Breakthroughs

Heart failure with improved ejection fraction (HFimpEF) represents an emerging and dynamic sector in cardiology. Characterized by a notable rise in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) following a period of diminished cardiac function, HFimpEF is gaining recognition as a distinct clinical entity with unique prognostic and therapeutic nuances. Rather than a straightforward reversal of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), HFimpEF involves a complex interplay of myocardial recovery mechanisms, persistent comorbidities, genetic factors, and strategically guided therapies. Navigating the identification, understanding, and management of this patient population presents both challenges and opportunities for clinicians and researchers alike.

This Research Topic endeavors to offer a thorough investigation into HFimpEF, weaving together the most recent basic, translational, and clinical insights. We accept original research articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case series, translational and mechanistic studies, and perspectives that enrich our understanding of this expanding patient group.

Areas of focus include, but are not limited to:

o Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms: Elucidating myocardial recovery processes and factors facilitating the improvement in LVEF.

o Clinical Profiles and Prognostic Markers: Defining patient phenotypes, predictors of improvement, and assessing long-term outcomes.

o Imaging and Biomarkers: Exploring the role of advanced imaging techniques and circulating biomarkers in monitoring and stratifying HFimpEF.

o Therapeutic Strategies and Management: Evaluating the effects of guideline-directed therapies, device interventions, lifestyle modifications, and considerations for medical withdrawal or continuation.

o Relapse and Rehospitalization: Assessing the risks of recurrent dysfunction and strategies to maintain sustained myocardial recovery.

o Future Directions: Identifying research gaps, exploring novel therapeutic opportunities, and advancing toward precision medicine in HFimpEF.

The overarching aim is to elucidate the natural history, clinical management strategies, and translational implications of HFimpEF, thereby guiding therapies toward sustained heart function recovery and enhanced quality of life.

Appendix: We accept submissions of original research articles, clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case series, translational and mechanistic studies, and perspectives.

Keywords: Heart Failure, Improved Ejection Fraction, Myocardial Recovery, Prognosis, Cardiac Imaging, Biomarkers, Therapy, Relapse, Risk Stratification, Clinical Outcomes

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.