Researchers have discovered one potential mechanism by which briefly cutting off, then restoring, blood flow to arteries prior to a heart attack lessens the damage caused, according to a study published today in the journal Cardiovascular Research. The new mechanism points to how future drugs could provide protection ahead of heart attacks and strokes for those at highest risk. In the nearer term, the work may help to prevent damage caused as U.S. heart surgeons temporarily cut off blood flow 450,000 times each year to perform coronary artery bypass graft surgeries. Lastly, the discoveries hold clues to the value of the Mediterranean diet beyond red wine.