Pyruvate Kinase M2 Role in Cardiovascular Repair

Pyruvate kinase muscle isoform 2 (PKM2) is identified as a promising target for cardiac repair and regeneration due to its roles in cellular metabolism, proliferation, and protection against oxidative stress. PKM2 enhances cardiomyocyte proliferation, reduces oxidative stress by increasing NADPH levels, and minimizes DNA damage. It also interacts with signaling molecules like β-catenin and HIF-1α to promote cell cycle reentry and angiogenesis. These functions position PKM2 as a key metabolic and signaling hub, making it a potential therapeutic target for advancing regenerative therapies in cardiovascular medicine.