The three researchers from Newcastle University, Maria Camacho Encina, Laura Booth, and Millie Fullerton, are involved in ground-breaking BHF research.
They have pledged to participate in the half marathon to support the charity’s life-saving work.
The scientists work at the university’s Biosciences Institute, where they focus on different aspects of heart disease.
Maria and Laura study ‘zombie cells’, which are more prevalent in people with heart disease.
These cells are not dead but don’t function as they should, releasing molecules that can affect neighbouring cells and increase inflammation and scar tissue in the heart muscle.
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(Image: BHF) Laura’s research focuses on how these cells might accumulate in the heart after some chemotherapy treatments, while Maria examines their absence in people over 65.
Millie investigates the genetic causes of cardiomyopathy in children, focusing on a genetic cause that affects the function of mitochondria, the ‘powerhouses of the cell’.
The BHF currently funds 13 research projects at Newcastle University through grants totalling £5.8 million.
Maria, a BHF research associate, said: “The research we are carrying out will potentially increase the number of hearts that are available for transplants.
“We really appreciate the funding that the BHF gives to this project as it is of course life-changing for heart recipients and their families to receive a new healthy heart.
“I’m excited and a little nervous about doing the Great North Run.
“I have never run a half marathon before and although I go to the gym, I’m not a runner.”
Millie said: “The atmosphere in Newcastle for the GNR weekend is amazing, and I feel very honoured to be running for the BHF as we get to see first-hand where the funding goes and how important the research is.”
Laura added: “I’m looking forward to challenging myself and raising money for the BHF as every day we see the difference those funds make.
“It’s great to be involved in the Great North Run because it’s such an iconic event for the northeast.”