Semaglutide in Patients with Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction and Obesity

Trends in heart failure mortality in Sweden between 1997 and 2022

AIMS

Data from US have shown a reversal in the improvement of heart failure (HF)-related mortality over the last ~10 years. It is unknown whether these trends generalize to European universal healthcare systems. We assessed temporal trends in (i) HF-related mortality in the overall national population; and (ii) all-cause mortality following an incident HF diagnosis, overall and stratified by ejection fraction (EF), in Sweden between 1997 and 2022.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Annual mortality rates with a HF diagnosis as underlying cause were extracted from the Cause of Death Register. All-cause mortality following incident HF was assessed in two HF cohorts derived from the National Patient Register (NPR) and the Swedish HF Registry (SwedeHF). Temporal trends were presented as average annual percentage change (AAPC). Between 1997 and 2022, age-adjusted HF-related mortality in the general population declined from 33.4 to 23.8 per 100 000 individuals (AAPC -2.15%, p < 0.001). In the HF cohort from NPR (n = 423 092), all-cause mortality at 1, 3, and 5 years following a first diagnosis of HF was 25%, 46%, and 58%, respectively, in 2022; 1-year mortality declined (AAPC -1.10%, p < 0.001) over time regardless of age or sex. In SwedeHF (n = 63 753), the decline in 1-year mortality was less steep with increasing EF (AAPC -2.64%, p < 0.001; -2.30%, p = 0.062; and -2.16%, p = 0.032 in EF <40%, 40-49%, and ≥50%, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Heart failure-related mortality has declined over the last ~25 years in Sweden. All-cause mortality in patients with HF has also declined, more in HF with reduced than preserved EF, mirroring the different availability of life-saving treatments across the EF spectrum.

Advances in body composition: a 100-year journey

Knowledge of human body composition at the dawn of the twentieth century was based largely on cadaver studies and chemical analyses of isolated organs and tissues. Matters soon changed by the nineteen twenties when the Czech anthropologist Jindřich Matiegka introduced an influential new anthropometric method of fractionating body mass into subcutaneous adipose tissue and other major body components. Today, one century later, investigators can not only quantify every major body component in vivo at the atomic, molecular, cellular, tissue-organ, and whole-body organizational levels, but go far beyond to organ and tissue-specific composition and metabolite estimates. These advances are leading to an improved understanding of adiposity structure-function relations, discovery of new obesity phenotypes, and a mechanistic basis of some weight-related pathophysiological processes and adverse clinical outcomes. What factors over the past one hundred years combined to generate these profound new body composition measurement capabilities in living humans? This perspective tracks the origins of these scientific innovations with the aim of providing insights on current methodology gaps and future research needs.

The Sit Less, Interact and Move More (SLIMM-2) Trial: Protocol for a randomized control trial of a sedentary behavior intervention, resistance training and semaglutide on sedentary behavior in persons with chronic kidney disease

BACKGROUND

Sedentary behavior is highly prevalent and associated with morbidity and mortality in chronic kidney disease (CKD). A Sit Less, Interact and Move More (SLIMM) sedentary activity coaching intervention can reduce sedentary duration among persons with CKD, but preliminary data suggest that effects may not persist. Prior studies have suggested that moderate/vigorous intensity physical activities are not sustainable in persons with CKD. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether guided resistance training ± oral semaglutide co-intervention improves adherence and/or persistence of the SLIMM intervention.

METHOD/DESIGN

The SLIMM-2 is a two-center study designed with a 3-month sedentary activity coaching (SLIMM) followed by a 9-month randomized controlled trial with three arms: SLIMM + standard of care resistance training + oral placebo, SLIMM + guided resistance training + oral placebo, or SLIMM + guided resistance training + oral semaglutide. The study is recruiting persons with CKD (eGFR 20 to ≤60 ml/min/1.73 m2). ActivPAL, a wearable tri-axial accelerometer, is used to assess outcomes including sedentary duration (primary outcome), stepping duration and the average number of steps per day. Additional outcomes include 6-min walk distance and body fat percentage. Persons randomized to standard of care resistance training will be encouraged to maintain individualized physical activity goals; those randomized to guided resistance training will attend guided sessions per month and be prescribed daily independent exercises.

RESULTS

Enrollment, interventions, and follow-up are ongoing.

CONCLUSIONS

Results from the SLIMM-2 study are expected to inform clinical practice, with the potential to enhance physical health and functioning among persons with CKD.

Pharmacologic Management of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) in Older Adults

There are several pharmacologic agents that have been touted as guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). However, it is important to recognize that older adults with HFpEF also contend with an increased risk for adverse effects from medications due to age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications, as well as the concurrence of geriatric conditions such as polypharmacy and frailty. With this review, we discuss the underlying evidence for the benefits of various treatments in HFpEF and incorporate key considerations for older adults, a subpopulation that may be at higher risk for adverse drug events. Key considerations for older adults include: the use of loop diuretics, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs), and sodium glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for most; angiotensin receptor blockers/ angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARB/ARNIs) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) as add-on therapies for some, though risk of geriatric conditions such as falls, malnutrition, and/or sarcopenia must be considered; and beta blockers for a smaller subset of patients (with consideration of deprescribing for some, though data are lacking on this approach). Naturally, when making clinical decisions for older adults with cardiovascular disease, it is critical to consider the complexity of their conditions, including cognitive and physical function and social and environmental factors, and ensure alignment of care plans with the patient's health goals and priorities.

Contemporary treatment patterns of overweight and obesity: insights from the Mass General Brigham health care system

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to describe the prevalence of obesity, obesity-related conditions (ORCs), and antiobesity medication (AOM) eligibility and prescribing practice among eligible patients in a large health care system.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional analysis of the multicenter Mass General Brigham health care system (Boston, Massachusetts) spanning 2018 to 2022, adults eligible for AOMs (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 or BMI 27-29.9 kg/m2 with ≥1 ORC) were identified. Among those AOM-eligible, the prevalence of prescriptions for AOMs approved for long-term weight management was evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 2,469,474 adults (mean [SD], age 53 [19] years; 57% female; BMI 28.1 [6.3] kg/m2), a total of 1,110,251 (45.0%) were eligible for AOMs. Of these, 69.4% (31.2% of overall cohort) had BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2. AOM prescription was observed in 15,214 (1.4%) of all eligible patients, with female sex, younger age, higher BMI, commercial insurance, and greater ORC burden associated with higher prevalence of AOM prescriptions. Musculoskeletal disorders (54%) were the most common ORCs, with ≥2 ORCs observed in 62% of patients. Liraglutide 3.0 mg and semaglutide 2.4 mg were the most frequently prescribed AOMs (58% and 34% of all AOMs, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Although nearly one-half of all patients in a large health care system were AOM-eligible by guidelines and regulatory labeling, only 1% of those who were eligible were prescribed AOMs.

Relationship between waist-to-height ratio and heart failure outcome: A single-centre prospective cohort study

AIMS

This study sought to evaluate the correlation between waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and heart failure (HF) outcomes across different ejection fraction (EF) categories.

METHODS AND RESULTS

A prospective cohort study was conducted at a comprehensive tertiary hospital in China. The participants were categorized by WHtR and EF quartiles. Outpatient or telephone follow-up occurred every 6 months after the diagnosis of heart failure. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at 48 months. Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were employed to evaluate the association between WHtR and all-cause mortality. Among 859 enrolled participants, 545 (63.4%) were male, and the mean age was 65.2 ± 11.1 years. After adjusting for age and sex, WHtR demonstrated a strong correlation with both BMI (correlation = 0.703, P = 0.000) and WHR (correlation = 0.609, P = 0.000). Individuals with a high WHtR (≥0.50) had a higher prevalence of hypertension (56.4% vs. 39.6%) and diabetes (26.5% vs. 13.7%), higher levels of TC (3.61 ± 1.55 vs. 3.36 ± 0.90 mmol/L), TG (1.40 ± 0.81 vs. 1.06 ± 0.59 mmol/L), and LDL-C (2.03 ± 0.85 vs. 1.86 ± 0.76 mmol/L) compared with patients with low WHtR (<0.50). NT-proBNP levels were inversely correlated with EF values in both low and high WHtR groups. A total of 149 (18.9%) patients died at the conclusion of the follow-up period. The incidence of all-cause and cardiovascular death was higher in the low WHtR group compared with the high WHtR group [HRs = 1.83 (1.30-2.58), 1.96 (1.34-2.88), respectively]. There was no significant difference in noncardiovascular mortality or rehospitalization rates between the two groups. Patients with HFrEF/low WHtR exhibited a markedly elevated risk of all-cause mortality [HR = 2.31; (95% CI: 1.24-4.30)], heart failure mortality [HR = 3.52; (95% CI: 2.92-8.80)], and noncardiovascular mortality [HR = 4.59; (95% CI: 1.19-17.76)] compared with patients with HFrEF/high WHtR. WHtR has a negligible effect on the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in heart failure patients with preserved EFs.

CONCLUSIONS

The obesity paradox, as delineated by WHtR, is observed in patients with HFrEF, yet absent in those with HFpEF.

The risk of malnutrition as a predictor of arrhythmia recurrence after catheter ablation in patients with paroxysmal non-valvular atrial Fibrillation and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition presents a significant challenge in managing patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), yet its impact on AF recurrence after catheter ablation in this population remains unclear.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 204 patients with paroxysmal non-valvular AF and HFpEF who underwent radiofrequency or cryoballoon ablation. Risk of malnutrition as assessed using three screening tools: the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score, Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), and Nutritional Risk Index (NRI)]. We examined the relationship between risk of malnutrition and AF recurrence post-ablation.

RESULTS

After a mean follow-up period of 11.2 ±  1.8 months, 43 patients (21.1%) experienced AF recurrence. Despite being classified as overweight or obese based on body mass index, many patients were at risk of malnutrition according to the CONUT score, NRI, and PNI. Adjusted analyses showed that higher CONUT scores (HR: 10.132; 95% CI: 2.545-40.336; P =  0.001), lower NRI (HR: 22.734; 95% CI: 6.399-80.776; P <  0.001), or lower PNI (HR: 9.469; 95% CI: 3.232-27.739; P <  0.001) were significantly associated with increased risk of AF recurrence. Restricted cubic spline regression revealed an inverted U-shaped relationship between the CONUT score and AF recurrence, and L-shaped relationships for both NRI and PNI with AF recurrence.

CONCLUSIONS

Systematic nutritional assessment is crucial in patients with paroxysmal non-valvular AF and HFpEF. High CONUT scores, low NRI, or low PNI serve as independent predictors for AF recurrence. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials are required to validate these findings.

Tirzepatide for Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction and Obesity

BACKGROUND

Obesity increases the risk of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Tirzepatide, a long-acting agonist of glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptors, causes considerable weight loss, but data are lacking with respect to its effects on cardiovascular outcomes.

METHODS

In this international, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, we randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, 731 patients with heart failure, an ejection fraction of at least 50%, and a body-mass index (the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in meters) of at least 30 to receive tirzepatide (up to 15 mg subcutaneously once per week) or placebo for at least 52 weeks. The two primary end points were a composite of adjudicated death from cardiovascular causes or a worsening heart-failure event (assessed in a time-to-first-event analysis) and the change from baseline to 52 weeks in the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire clinical summary score (KCCQ-CSS; scores range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating better quality of life).

RESULTS

A total of 364 patients were assigned to the tirzepatide group and 367 to the placebo group; the median duration of follow-up was 104 weeks. Adjudicated death from cardiovascular causes or a worsening heart-failure event occurred in 36 patients (9.9%) in the tirzepatide group and in 56 patients (15.3%) in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.41 to 0.95; P = 0.026). Worsening heart-failure events occurred in 29 patients (8.0%) in the tirzepatide group and in 52 patients (14.2%) in the placebo group (hazard ratio, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.85), and adjudicated death from cardiovascular causes occurred in 8 patients (2.2%) and 5 patients (1.4%), respectively (hazard ratio, 1.58; 95% CI, 0.52 to 4.83). At 52 weeks, the mean (±SD) change in the KCCQ-CSS was 19.5±1.2 in the tirzepatide group as compared with 12.7±1.3 in the placebo group (between-group difference, 6.9; 95% CI, 3.3 to 10.6; P<0.001). Adverse events (mainly gastrointestinal) leading to discontinuation of the trial drug occurred in 23 patients (6.3%) in the tirzepatide group and in 5 patients (1.4%) in the placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment with tirzepatide led to a lower risk of a composite of death from cardiovascular causes or worsening heart failure than placebo and improved health status in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and obesity. (Funded by Eli Lilly; SUMMIT ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT04847557.).

Upregulated FoxO1 promotes arrhythmogenesis in mice with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction

Myocardial fibrosis leads to cardiac dysfunction and arrhythmias in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Here, RNA sequencing identifies Forkhead Box1 (FoxO1) signaling as abnormal in male HFpEF hearts. Genetic suppression of FoxO1 alters the intercellular communication between cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts, alleviates abnormal diastolic relaxation, and reduces arrhythmias. Targeted downregulation of FoxO1 in activated fibroblasts reduces cardiac fibrosis, blunts arrhythmogenesis and improves diastolic function in HFpEF. These results not only implicate FoxO1 in arrhythmogenesis and lusitropy but also demonstrate that pro-fibrotic remodeling and cardiomyocyte-fibroblast communication can be corrected, constituting an alternative therapeutic strategy for HFpEF.

The Impact of Obesity on Cardiac Energy Metabolism and Efficiency in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

The incidence and prevalence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) continues to rise, and now comprises more than half of all heart failure cases. There are many risk factors for HFpEF, including older age, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, sedentary behaviour, and obesity. The rising prevalence of obesity in society is a particularly important contributor to HFpEF development and severity. Obesity can adversely affect the heart, including inducing marked alterations in cardiac energy metabolism. This includes obesity-induced impairments in mitochondrial function, and an increase in fatty acid uptake and mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation. This increase in myocardial fatty acid metabolism is accompanied by an impaired myocardial insulin signaling and a marked decrease in glucose oxidation. This switch from glucose to fatty acid metabolism decreases cardiac efficiency and can contribute to severity of HFpEF. Increased myocardial fatty acid uptake in obesity is also associated with the accumulation of fatty acids, resulting in cardiac lipotoxicity. Obesity also results in dramatic changes in the release of adipokines, which can negatively impact cardiac function and energy metabolism. Obesity-induced increases in epicardial fat can also increase cardiac insulin resistance and negatively affect cardiac energy metabolism and HFpEF. However, optimizing cardiac energy metabolism in obese subjects may be one approach to preventing and treating HFpEF. This review discusses what is presently known about the effects of obesity on cardiac energy metabolism and insulin signaling in HFpEF. The clinical implications of obesity and energy metabolism on HFpEF are also discussed.

Glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists and cardiometabolic protection: historical development and future challenges

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have revolutionized the treatment of cardiometabolic diseases, extending their therapeutic applications far beyond glycemic control in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity. This editorial synthesizes key milestones, from the discovery of GLP-1 to recent clinical trials highlighting the pleiotropic effects of GLP-1RAs in addressing the interconnected spectrum of cardiometabolic conditions, with a focus on cardiovascular, renal, and hepatic benefits. In addition, as GLP-1RAs continue to reshape the management of cardiometabolic disease and global public health, we discuss future challenges to better elucidate their mechanisms of cardiometabolic protection and maximize their therapeutic potential.

The Protocol for the Multi-Ethnic, multi-centre raNdomised controlled trial of a low-energy Diet for improving functional status in heart failure with Preserved ejection fraction (AMEND Preserved)

INTRODUCTION

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is characterised by severe exercise intolerance, particularly in those living with obesity. Low-energy meal-replacement plans (MRPs) have shown significant weight loss and potential cardiac remodelling benefits. This pragmatic randomised trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of MRP-directed weight loss on exercise intolerance, symptoms, quality of life and cardiovascular remodelling in a multiethnic cohort with obesity and HFpEF.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Prospective multicentre, open-label, blinded endpoint randomised controlled trial comparing low-energy MRP with guideline-driven care plus health coaching. Participants (n=110, age ≥18 years) with HFpEF and clinical stability for at least 3 months will be randomised to receive either MRP (810 kcal/day) or guideline-driven care for 12 weeks. Randomisation is stratified by sex, ethnicity, and baseline Sodium Glucose Cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2-i) use, using the electronic database RedCap with allocation concealment. Key exclusion criteria include severe valvular, lung or renal disease, infiltrative cardiomyopathies, symptomatic biliary disease or history of an eating disorder. Participants will undergo glycometabolic profiling, echocardiography, MRI for cardiovascular structure and function, body composition analysis (including visceral and subcutaneous adiposity quantification), Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) and Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), at baseline and 12 weeks. An optional 24-week assessment will include non-contrast CMR, 6MWT, KCCQ score. Optional substudies include a qualitative study assessing participants' experiences and barriers to adopting MRP, and skeletal muscle imaging and cardiac energetics using 31Phosphorus MR spectroscopy.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS

Complete case analysis will be conducted with adjustment for baseline randomisation factors including sex, ethnicity and baseline SGLT2-i use. The primary outcome is the change in distance walked during the 6MWT. The primary imaging endpoint is the change in left atrial volume indexed to height on cardiac MRI. Key secondary endpoints include symptoms and quality of life measured by the KCCQ score.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The Health Research Authority Ethics Committee (REC reference 22/EM/0215) has approved the study. The findings of this study will be published in peer-reviewed journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT05887271.

Cachectic biomarkers as confounders behind the obesity paradox in patients with acute decompensated heart failure

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a risk factor for heart failure (HF) development but is associated with a lower incidence of mortality in HF patients. This obesity paradox may be confounded by unrecognized comorbidities, including cachexia.

METHODS

A retrospective assessment was conducted using data from a prospectively recruiting multicenter registry, which included consecutive acute heart failure patients. A low, normal, and high body mass index (BMI) was defined as <20 kg/m2, 20-25 kg/m2, and ≥25 kg/m2, respectively. Cachexia was defined as a combination of BMI < 20 kg/m2 and any biochemical abnormalities including albumin, hemoglobin, or C-reactive protein. Patients with either of the three biochemical abnormalities were categorized as those with cachectic biomarkers. Two-year all-cause, cardiac, and noncardiac mortality were evaluated.

RESULTS

This study evaluated 3314 patients (mean BMI, 22 ± 4 kg/m2 [low BMI with cachexia, 828 (25%); low BMI without cachexia, 273 (8%); normal BMI, 1584 (48%); high BMI, 629 (19%)]). Overall, an increase of 1 point in BMI was associated with a decreased incidence of all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.92; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90-0.94; p < 0.001). Regardless of the mode of death, the low BMI with cachexia indicated the worst prognosis, while the low BMI without cachexia showed a similar prognosis to the normal BMI. Cachectic biomarkers, which were observed more frequently in the low BMI, predicted a higher incidence of 2-year all-cause mortality across the BMI categories (adjusted HR for the low BMI, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.30-2.77; p = 0.001; adjusted HR for the normal BMI, 1.94; 95% CI, 1.34-2.79; p < 0.001; adjusted HR for the high BMI, 3.60; 95% CI, 1.61-8.08; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

BMI could be only a surrogate marker. The cachectic biomarkers may reflect the underlying conditions and contribute to elucidating the obesity paradox.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction in HFpEF: Potential Interventions Through Exercise

HFpEF is a prevalent and complex type of heart failure. The concurrent presence of conditions such as obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia significantly increase the risk of developing HFpEF. Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell, are crucial in maintaining cellular functions, including ATP production, intracellular Ca2+ regulation, reactive oxygen species generation and clearance, and the regulation of apoptosis. Exercise plays a vital role in preserving mitochondrial homeostasis, thereby protecting the cardiovascular system from acute stress, and is a fundamental component in maintaining cardiovascular health. In this study, we review the mitochondrial dysfunction underlying the development and progression of HFpEF. Given the pivotal role of exercise in modulating cardiovascular diseases, we particularly focus on exercise as a potential therapeutic strategy for improving mitochondrial function. Graphical abstract Note: This picture was created with BioRender.com.

Hydrogen Sulfide Deficiency and Therapeutic Targeting in Cardiometabolic HFpEF: Evidence for Synergistic Benefit with GLP-1/Glucagon Agonism

Background

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a significant public health concern with limited treatment options. Dysregulated nitric oxide-mediated signaling has been implicated in HFpEF pathophysiology, however, little is known about the role of endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) in HFpEF.

Objectives

This study evaluated H 2 S bioavailability in patients and two animal models of cardiometabolic HFpEF and assessed the impact of H 2 S on HFpEF severity through alterations in endogenous H 2 S production and pharmacological supplementation. We also evaluated the effects of the H 2 S donor, diallyl trisulfide (DATS) in combination with the GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonist, survodutide, in HFpEF.

Methods

HFpEF patients and two rodent models of HFpEF ("two-hit" L-NAME + HFD mouse and ZSF1 obese rat) were evaluated for H 2 S bioavailability. Two cohorts of two-hit mice were investigated for changes in HFpEF pathophysiology: (1) endothelial cell cystathionine-γ-lyase (EC-CSE) knockout; (2) H 2 S donor, JK-1, supplementation. DATS and survodutide combination therapy was tested in ZSF1 obese rats.

Results

H 2 S levels were significantly reduced (i.e., 81%) in human HFpEF patients and in both preclinical HFpEF models. This depletion was associated with reduced CSE expression and activity, and increased SQR expression. Genetic knockout of H 2 S -generating enzyme, CSE, worsened HFpEF characteristics, including elevated E/e' ratio and LVEDP, impaired aortic vasorelaxation and increased mortality. Pharmacologic H 2 S supplementation restored H 2 S bioavailability, improved diastolic function and attenuated cardiac fibrosis corroborating an improved HFpEF phenotype. DATS synergized with survodutide to attenuate obesity, improve diastolic function, exercise capacity, and reduce oxidative stress and cardiac fibrosis.

Conclusions

H 2 S deficiency is evident in HFpEF patients and conserved across multiple preclinical HFpEF models. Increasing H 2 S bioavailability improved cardiovascular function, while knockout of endogenous H 2 S production exacerbated HFpEF pathology and mortality. These results suggest H 2 S dysregulation contributes to HFpEF and increasing H 2 S bioavailability may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for HFpEF. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that combining H 2 S supplementation with GLP-1/glucagon receptor agonist may provide synergistic benefits in improving HFpEF outcomes.

Highlights

H 2 S deficiency is evident in both human HFpEF patients and two clinically relevant models. Reduced H 2 S production by CSE and increased metabolism by SQR impair H 2 S bioavailability in HFpEF. Pharmacological H 2 S supplementation improves diastolic function and reduces cardiac fibrosis in HFpEF models. Targeting H 2 S dysregulation presents a novel therapeutic strategy for managing HFpEF. H 2 S synergizes with GLP-1/glucagon agonist and ameliorates HFpEF.

State of precision medicine for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in a new therapeutic age

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is defined by heart failure (HF) with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of at least 50%. HFpEF has a complex and heterogeneous pathophysiology with multiple co-morbidities contributing to its presentation. Establishing the diagnosis of HFpEF can be challenging. Two algorithms, the 'Heavy, 2 or more Hypertensive drugs, atrial Fibrillation, Pulmonary hypertension, Elderly age >60, elevated Filling pressures' (H2FPEF) and the 'Heart Failure Association Pre-test assessment, Echocardiography and natriuretic peptide, Functional testing, Final aetiology' (HFA-PEFF), can help to determine the likelihood of HFpEF in individuals with symptoms of HF. Phenotype clusters defined largely by the total number and types of co-morbidities may delineate groups of patients with HFpEF with different management needs. It is important to recognize alternative diagnoses or HFpEF mimics such as infiltrative cardiomyopathies, coronary artery disease, lung disease, anxiety, depression, anaemia, severe obesity, and physical deconditioning, among others. Treatment with sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (dapagliflozin and empagliflozin) is recommended for all patients with HFpEF unless contraindicated. Future research should consider alternative approaches to guide the initial diagnosis and treatment of HFpEF, including phenotype clustering models and artificial intelligence, and consider whether LVEF is the most useful distinguishing feature for categorizing HF. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating novel pharmacological and device-based approaches to address the pathophysiological consequences of HFpEF.

SERCA2a dysfunction in the pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: a direct role is yet to be established

With rising incidence, mortality and limited therapeutic options, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains one of the most important topics in cardiovascular medicine today. Characterised by left ventricular diastolic dysfunction partially due to impaired Ca2+ homeostasis, one ion channel in particular, SarcoEndoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2a), may play a significant role in its pathophysiology. A better understanding of the complex mechanisms interplaying to contribute to SERCA2a dysfunction will help develop treatments targeting it and thus address the growing clinical challenge HFpEF poses. This review examines the conflicting evidence present for changes in SERCA2a expression and activity in HFpEF, explores potential underlying mechanisms, and finally evaluates the drug and gene therapy trials targeting SERCA2a in heart failure. Recent positive results from trials involving widely used anti-diabetic agents such as sodium-glucose co-transporter protein 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists offer advancement in HFpEF management. The potential interplay between these agents and SERCA2a regulation presents a novel angle that could open new avenues for modulating diastolic function; however, the mechanistic research in this emerging field is limited. Overall, the direct role of SERCA2a dysfunction in HFpEF remains undetermined, highlighting the need for well-designed pre-clinical studies and robust clinical trials.

Diagnosis and management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in patients with ischaemic heart disease and acute coronary syndromes - a review of evidence and recommendations

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) represents a major healthcare condition of the 21st century. It is characterised by persistently elevated blood glucose occurring as a result of peripheral insulin resistance and reduced insulin production which may lead to multiple long-term health conditions such as retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy. The estimated number of individuals suffering from diabetes mellitus (DM) is expected to rise to 591 million by the year 2035 with 4.4 million in the United Kingdom (UK) alone, 90% of which is attributed to T2DM. Moreover, a significant proportion of individuals may have undetected diabetes mellitus, especially among those presenting with symptoms of ischaemic heart disease (IHD). This is particularly important in those individuals presenting with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) who are at the highest risk of complications and sudden cardiac death. Identifying abnormal levels of common biochemical markers of diabetes, such as capillary blood glucose or glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in these patients is important for early diagnosis, which will then allow for timely intervention to improve outcomes. However, a significant proportion of individuals who meet the criteria for the diagnosis of diabetes remain undiagnosed, representing missed opportunities for early intervention. This may result in a prolonged period of untreated hyperglycaemia, which can result resulting in significant further microvascular and macrovascular complications. There is an increased risk of IHD, heart failure, cerebrovascular accidents (CVA), and peripheral artery disease (PVD). These account accounting for 50% of deaths in patients with T2DM. Cardiovascular diseases in the context of diabetes particular represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality with a two to three times higher risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals with T2DM than in those without the condition normo-glycaemia. In the United Kingdom UK alone, around 120 amputations, 770 CVA, 590 heart attacks, and more than 2300 presentations with heart failure per week are attributed to diabetes DM. with One 1 in six 6 hospital beds and around 10% of the healthcare budget may be being spent on managing diabetes DM or its complications. Therefore, it represents a significant burden on our healthcare system.

Finerenone, Obesity, and Heart Failure With Mildly Reduced/Preserved Ejection Fraction: Prespecified Analysis of FINEARTS-HF

BACKGROUND

Obesity is associated with excessive adipocyte-derived aldosterone secretion, independent of the classical renin-angiotensin-aldosterone cascade, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists may be more effective in patients with heart failure (HF) and obesity.

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to examine the effects of the nonsteroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone compared with placebo, according to body mass index (BMI) in FINEARTS-HF (FINerenone trial to investigate Efficacy and sAfety superioR to placebo in paTientS with Heart Failure).

METHODS

A total of 6,001 patients with HF with NYHA functional class II, III, and IV, a left ventricular ejection fraction of ≥40%, evidence of structural heart disease, and elevated natriuretic peptide levels were randomized to finerenone or placebo. BMI (kg/m2) was examined using World Health Organization categories, namely, underweight/normal weight (<25.0 kg/m2; n = 1,306); overweight (25.0-29.9 kg/m2; n = 1,990); obesity class I (30.0-34.9 kg/m2; n = 1,546); obesity class II (35.0-39.9 kg/m2; n = 751); and obesity class III (≥40 kg/m2; n = 395). The primary outcome was cardiovascular death and total worsening HF events.

RESULTS

Data on baseline BMI were available for 5,988 patients (median: 29.2 kg/m2; Q1-Q3: 25.5-33.6 kg/m2). Compared with patients who were underweight/normal weight, those with obesity class II or III had a higher risk of the primary outcome (underweight/normal weight, reference; overweight, unadjusted rate ratio: 0.96 [95% CI: 0.81-1.15]; obesity class I: 1.04 [95% CI: 0.86-1.26]; obesity class II-III: 1.26 [95% CI: 1.03-1.54]). The effect of finerenone on the primary outcome did not vary by baseline BMI (underweight/normal weight, rate ratio: 0.80 [95% CI: 0.62-1.04]; overweight: 0.91 [95% CI: 0.72-1.15]; obesity class I: 0.92 [95% CI: 0.72-1.19]; obesity class II-III: 0.67 [95% CI: 0.50-0.89]; Pinteraction = 0.32). However, when BMI was examined as a continuous variable, the beneficial effect of finerenone seemed to be greater in those with a higher BMI (Pinteraction = 0.005). A similar pattern was observed for total worsening HF events. Consistent effects across baseline BMI were observed for cardiovascular and all-cause death and improvement in the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire scores.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with HF with mildly reduced/preserved ejection fraction, the beneficial effects of finerenone on clinical events and symptoms were consistent, irrespective of BMI at baseline, possibly with a greater effect on the primary outcome in patients with higher BMI. (FINEARTS-HF [FINerenone trial to investigate Efficacy and sAfety superioR to placebo in paTientS with Heart Failure]; NCT04435626).

Targeting P21-Activated Kinase 2 as a Novel Therapeutic Approach to Mitigate Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

BACKGROUND

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is linked to prolonged endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. P21-activated kinase 2 (Pak2) facilitates a protective ER stress response. This study explores the mechanism and role of Pak2 in HFpEF pathology.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The HFpEF mouse model was established using a high-fat diet combined with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nω-Nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (high-fat diet+Nω-Nitro-l-arginine methyl ester). The model exhibited the typical characteristics of HFpEF (cardiac hypertrophy, diastolic dysfunction with preserved systolic function, and lung edema) as determined by echocardiography and hemodynamic analysis. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling and dihydroethidium staining results showed that cell death and reactive oxygen species generation were higher in the high-fat diet+Nω-Nitro-l-arginine methyl ester-treated group. Transmission electron microscopy revealed disruption of the ER subcellular structures in the HFpEF mouse model, while western blot analysis confirmed reduced Pak2 phosphorylation and impaired inositol-requiring enzyme 1/X-box binding protein 1 splicing ER stress response signaling. Furthermore, H9c2 cells subjected to the palmitic acid-mediated metabolic stress developed temporal changes in unfolded protein response proteins and Pak2 activity. The inositol requiring enzyme 1/X-box binding protein 1 splicing branch of unfolded protein response was impaired earlier than other branches. Overexpression of Pak2 by adenovirus in H9c2 cells sustained the activation of inositol requiring enzyme 1/X-box binding protein 1 splicing. Pak2 deficiency in the mouse heart accelerated the HFpEF progression, and this phenomenon occurred as early as 10 weeks in Pak2 cardiomyocyte-specific knockout mice. Conversely, adeno-associated virus serotype 9-mediated Pak2 overexpression mitigated HFpEF symptoms, underscoring its protective role against HFpEF progression.

CONCLUSIONS

Pak2 prevents HFpEF progression, exerting cardioprotective effects against ER stress. These insights underscore the therapeutic value of Pak2 in HFpEF.

Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in Patients With Durable Left Ventricular Assist Devices

BACKGROUND

GLP-1 RAs improve cardiometabolic outcomes in obese, diabetic, and heart failure patients. Data on the safety and efficacy of GLP-1 RA in advanced heart failure with durable LVAD is limited.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the safety and efficacy of GLP-1 RA in durable LVAD patients.

METHODS

We conducted a single-center retrospective analysis of patients on durable LVAD support treated with GLP-1 RA. Outcomes included cardiometabolic efficacy and LVAD and GLP-1 RA related adverse events up to 1 year post GLP-1 RA initiation.

RESULTS

Forty LVAD patients were treated with GLP-1 RA therapy between 2018 and 2023. At 1 year follow-up, the patient's weight was significantly reduced (116 (98-134) vs. 110 (91-129) kg, p-value < 0.001), HBA1C was improved (6.4 (5.8-8.1) vs. 5.7 (5.3-6.1), p-value 0.003), and NT-proBNP levels were significantly reduced (810 (594-1413) vs. 732 (354-1155) pg/mL, p-value 0.04). GLP-1 RA therapy was not associated with cannula position change (cannula coronal angle of 29.7° (15.0-42.0) vs. 23.1° (12.8-42.3), p-value 0.683), and LVADs complication rate was relatively low (12.5% of the patients had hemocompatibility adverse events, 15% had driveline infection, 12% had HF hospitalization, and 2.5% (1 patient) died due to HeartMate2 malfunction). There was no interruption of drug administration due to adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Durable LVAD patients treated with GLP-1 RA had improved cardiometabolic profiles and low major adverse events. GLP-1 RA therapy holds promise as a potential adjunctive treatment strategy in LVAD recipients, offering improved cardiometabolic profile, hemodynamics, and potential future transplant candidacy.

Initiation and sequencing of guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure across the ejection fraction spectrum

Strong evidence supports the importance of rapid sequence or simultaneous initiation of quadruple guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) for substantially reducing risk of mortality and hospitalization. Barring absolute contraindications for each individual medication, employing the strategy of rapid sequence, simultaneous, and/or in-hospital initiation at the time of HF diagnosis best ensures patients with HFrEF have the opportunity to benefit from proven medications and achieve large absolute risk reductions for adverse clinical outcomes. However, despite guideline recommendations supporting this approach, implementation in clinical practice remains persistently low, with less than one-fifth of eligible patients being prescribed the quadruple GDMT regimen. Additionally, for heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) constitute foundational therapy for all eligible patients with significant clinical benefits within just weeks of medication initiation. Nonetheless, the burden of symptoms, functional limitations, and hospitalizations remains substantial for many of these patients, even with SGLT2i and non-steroidal MRA therapy. Additional evidence supports consideration of adjunctive therapies for HF with EF > 40% that can be tailored to the patient phenotype, including glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA) for patients with obesity, as well as angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) for patients with EF below normal. This article reviews the evidence-based sequencing of GDMT for HF across the spectrum of EF, emphasizing the rationale and benefits of early up-front initiation of quadruple medical therapy for HFrEF, rapid initiation of SGLT2i for HF regardless of EF, and prompt phenotype-specific tailored approach to adjunctive therapies for HF with EF > 40%.

Efficient Strategy for Protein Drug Carrier Design for Insights into the Protein-Polyelectrolyte Interaction

The protein carrier and encapsulation system based on polyelectrolytes plays crucial roles in drug research and development. Traditional methods such as isothermal titration calorimetry and molecular dynamics simulation have illuminated parts of this complex relationship. However, they fall short of capturing the full picture of the interaction during the carrier's fabrication and protein loading dynamics. We propose a strategy in this article that combines ordered porous layer interferometry (OPLI) with electrophoretic light scattering (ELS) to study this interaction, effectively investigating the mechanism of polyelectrolyte-protein interaction and verifying it through charge measurement. The layer-by-layer assembly method was used to fabricate the polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) layer on both silica colloidal crystal (SCC) films and silica nanospheres. OPLI with the SCC film as the substrate was employed to investigate real-time interaction between PEC and proteins, while ELS determined the ζ-potential of the PEC layer and proteins to illustrate the interaction mechanism further. It was found that surface charge affects electrostatic adsorption at different pH values and numbers of polyelectrolyte layers. As the ζ-potential difference increased, protein adsorption on the PEC layer also increased significantly. Adjusting the pH value during protein loading can maximize the loading efficiency. In our strategy, we can transfer the in situ interface study of OPLI into a dispersed nanosphere system directly because the silica nanosphere can be the building block of the OPLI substrate while being the solid supporter for polyelectrolyte carriers. By combining OPLI and ELS, this work provides an efficient strategy for developing protein drug carriers based on polyelectrolytes.

Design and baseline characteristics of the STRIDE trial: evaluating semaglutide in people with symptomatic peripheral artery disease and type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

People with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) suffer from a high burden of symptoms and significant functional impairment. There are few therapies that improve function and reduce symptoms in this population. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) have been shown to improve glycaemic control, reduce body weight, and reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in people with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes (T2D).

METHODS AND RESULTS

STRIDE (NCT04560998) is a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind phase 3b trial evaluating 1 mg once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide (GLP-1 RA) vs. placebo, in people with symptomatic PAD (Fontaine IIa claudication) and T2D. Eligible participants were ≥18 years, had haemodynamically stable PAD, had no planned intervention, and were not receiving a GLP-1 RA. The primary endpoint is change in maximum walking distance on a constant-load treadmill (CLT). Secondary endpoints include quality of life and cardiometabolic assessments. A total of 792 participants were randomized in 20 countries. Participants' median age was 68 and median T2D duration 12 years. Risk factors included 25.6% current smokers, 87.9% with hypertension, and 42.7% with coronary heart disease. The mean BMI was 29.6 kg/m2 and the mean HbA1C was 7.3%. Participants exhibited baseline functional impairment with a median maximum walking distance of 186 m on a CLT.

CONCLUSION

STRIDE has enrolled participants with symptomatic PAD and T2D, frequent risk factors and comorbidities, and functional impairment. The trial will provide evidence for the functional outcomes with semaglutide in people with PAD and T2D.

Integrated Management of Cardiovascular-Renal-Hepatic-Metabolic Syndrome: Expanding Roles of SGLT2is, GLP-1RAs, and GIP/GLP-1RAs

Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic syndrome, introduced by the American Heart Association in 2023, represents a complex and interconnected spectrum of diseases driven by shared pathophysiological mechanisms. However, this framework notably excludes the liver-an organ fundamental to metabolic regulation. Building on this concept, Cardiovascular-Renal-Hepatic-Metabolic (CRHM) syndrome incorporates the liver's pivotal role in this interconnected disease spectrum, particularly through its involvement via metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Despite the increasing prevalence of CRHM syndrome, unified management strategies remain insufficiently explored. This review addresses the following critical question: How can novel anti-diabetic agents, including sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is), glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), and dual gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP)/GLP-1RA, offer an integrated approach to managing CRHM syndrome beyond the boundaries of traditional specialties? By synthesizing evidence from landmark clinical trials, we highlight the paradigm-shifting potential of these therapies. SGLT2is, such as dapagliflozin and empagliflozin, have emerged as cornerstone guideline-directed treatments for heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), providing benefits that extend beyond glycemic control and are independent of diabetes status. GLP-1RAs, e.g., semaglutide, have transformed obesity management by enabling weight reductions exceeding 15% and improving outcomes in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), diabetic CKD, HF, and MASLD. Additionally, tirzepatide, a dual GIP/GLP-1RA, enables unprecedented weight loss (>20%), reduces diabetes risk by over 90%, and improves outcomes in HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), MASLD, and obstructive sleep apnea. By moving beyond the traditional organ-specific approach, we propose a unified framework that integrates these agents into holistic management strategies for CRHM syndrome. This paradigm shift moves away from fragmented, organ-centric management toward a more unified approach, fostering collaboration across specialties and marking progress in precision cardiometabolic medicine.

evoke and evoke+: design of two large-scale, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 studies evaluating efficacy, safety, and tolerability of semaglutide in early-stage symptomatic Alzheimer's disease

BACKGROUND

Disease-modifying therapies targeting the diverse pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD), including neuroinflammation, represent potentially important and novel approaches. The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist semaglutide is approved for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity and has an established safety profile. Semaglutide may have a disease-modifying, neuroprotective effect in AD through multimodal mechanisms including neuroinflammatory, vascular, and other AD-related processes. Large randomized controlled trials are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of semaglutide in early-stage symptomatic AD.

METHODS

evoke and evoke+ are randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 trials investigating the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of once-daily oral semaglutide versus placebo in early-stage symptomatic AD. Eligible participants were men or women aged 55-85 years with mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia due to AD with confirmed amyloid abnormalities (assessed by positron emission tomography or cerebrospinal fluid [CSF] analysis). After a maximum 12-week screening phase, an anticipated 1840 patients in each trial are randomized (1:1) to semaglutide or placebo for 156 weeks (104-week main treatment phase and 52-week extension). Randomized participants follow an 8-week dose escalation regimen (3 mg [weeks 0-4], 7 mg [weeks 4-8], and 14 mg [weeks 8-156]). The primary endpoint is the semaglutide-placebo difference on change from baseline to week 104 in the Clinical Dementia Rating - Sum of Boxes score. Analyses of plasma biomarkers, collected from all participants, and a CSF sub-study (planned n = 210) will explore semaglutide effects on AD biomarkers and neuroinflammation.

RESULTS

Enrollment was undertaken between May 18, 2021, and September 8, 2023. Completion of the trials' main phase is expected in September 2025, and the 52-week extension (in which participants and investigators remain blinded to treatment assignment) will continue to October 2026.

CONCLUSION

evoke and evoke+ are the first large-scale trials to investigate the disease-modifying potential of semaglutide in participants with early-stage symptomatic AD, including exploration of effects on AD biomarkers and neuroinflammation. The trials will provide data on the potential disease-modifying effects of semaglutide and will be important in evaluating its utility in the treatment of early-stage symptomatic AD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04777396 and NCT04777409. Date: 02/03/2021.

Physician Perceptions of the Safety and Efficacy of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists: Underestimation of Cardiovascular Risk Reduction and Discrepancies with Clinical Evidence

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide/GLP-1 receptor agonists (GIP/GLP-1 RAs) are emerging as effective treatments for obesity and cardiometabolic disease. This study evaluated physician perceptions of the safety and efficacy of semaglutide and tirzepatide through a questionnaire administered to 165 attending physicians specializing in internal or family medicine, with 122 responses received. Physicians reported an average patient weight loss of 9.22%, significantly lower than the 14.9% and 18.5% reported in the STEP and SURMOUNT trials, respectively. Estimated side effect rates (32.62%) were markedly lower than trial-reported rates (89.7% and 80.5%), while estimated discontinuation rates (8.59%) exceeded trial data. Cardiovascular benefits were perceived by 48.4% of physicians in diabetic patients, consistent with random guessing, and by only 39.3% in nondiabetic patients, significantly below random guessing expectations. These results highlight discrepancies between physician perceptions and clinical evidence, suggesting gaps in understanding regarding these agents' efficacy and safety profiles. Addressing these gaps could enhance physician knowledge, patient adherence, and clinical outcomes.

Discovery of Titin and Its Role in Heart Function and Disease

This review examines the giant elastic protein titin and its critical roles in heart function, both in health and disease, as discovered since its identification nearly 50 years ago. Encoded by the TTN (titin gene), titin has emerged as a major disease locus for cardiac disorders. Functionally, titin acts as a third myofilament type, connecting sarcomeric Z-disks and M-bands, and regulating myocardial passive stiffness and stretch sensing. Its I-band segment, which includes the N2B element and the PEVK (proline, glutamate, valine, and lysine-rich regions), serves as a viscoelastic spring, adjusting sarcomere length and force in response to cardiac stretch. The review details how alternative splicing of titin pre-mRNA produces different isoforms that greatly impact passive tension and cardiac function, under physiological and pathological conditions. Key posttranslational modifications, especially phosphorylation, play crucial roles in adjusting titin's stiffness, allowing for rapid adaptation to changing hemodynamic demands. Abnormal titin modifications and dysregulation of isoforms are linked to cardiac diseases such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, where increased stiffness impairs diastolic function. In addition, the review discusses the importance of the A-band region of titin in setting thick filament length and enhancing Ca²+ sensitivity, contributing to the Frank-Starling Mechanism of the heart. TTN truncating variants are frequently associated with dilated cardiomyopathy, and the review outlines potential disease mechanisms, including haploinsufficiency, sarcomere disarray, and altered thick filament regulation. Variants in TTN have also been linked to conditions such as peripartum cardiomyopathy and chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy. Therapeutic avenues are explored, including targeting splicing factors such as RBM20 (RNA binding motif protein 20) to adjust isoform ratios or using engineered heart tissues to study disease mechanisms. Advances in genetic engineering, including CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats), offer promise for modifying TTN to treat titin-related cardiomyopathies. This comprehensive review highlights titin's structural, mechanical, and signaling roles in heart function and the impact of TTN mutations on cardiac diseases.

An Overview of Existing and Emerging Weight-Loss Drugs to Target Obesity-Related Complications: Insights from Clinical Trials

Obesity requires treatment as it is associated with health problems such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, and some cancers, which increase mortality rates. Achieving sufficient weight loss to reduce obesity-related diseases requires a variety of interventions, including comprehensive lifestyle modification of diet and exercise, change in behavior, anti-obesity medications, and surgery. To date, anti-obesity agents with various mechanisms of action have been developed, and mostly reduce energy intake, resulting in weight loss of about 5% to 10% compared to baseline. Recently developed drugs and those currently under development have been shown to reduce body weight by more than 10% and are expected to reduce obesity-related complications. This article summarizes existing and emerging anti-obesity medications, with a particular focus on those evaluated in clinical trials.

Emerging pharmacotherapies for obesity: A systematic review

The history of antiobesity pharmacotherapies is marked by disappointments, often entangled with societal pressure promoting weight loss and the prevailing conviction that excess body weight signifies a lack of willpower. However, categories of emerging pharmacotherapies generate hope to reduce obesity rates. This systematic review of phase 2 and phase 3 trials in adults with overweight/obesity investigates the effect of novel weight loss pharmacotherapies, compared to placebo/control or US Food and Drug Administration-approved weight loss medication, through searching Medline, Embase, and ClinicalTrials.gov (2012-2024). We identified 53 phase 3 and phase 2 trials, with 36 emerging antiobesity drugs or combinations thereof and 4 withdrawn or terminated trials. Oral semaglutide 50 mg is the only medication that has completed a phase 3 trial. There are 14 ongoing phase 3 trials on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RAs) (ecnoglutide, orforglipron, and TG103), GLP-1 RA/amylin agonist (CagriSema), GLP-1/glucagon RAs (mazdutide and survodutide), GLP-1/glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon RA (retatrutide), dapagliflozin, and the combination sibutramine/topiramate. Completed phase 2 trials on incretin-based therapies showed a mean percent weight loss of 7.4% to 24.2%. Almost half of the drugs undergoing phase 2 trials are incretin analogs. The obesity drug pipeline is expanding rapidly, with the most promising results reported with incretin analogs. Data on mortality and obesity-related complications, such as cardio-renal-metabolic events, are needed. Moreover, long-term follow-up data on the safety and efficacy of weight maintenance with novel obesity pharmacotherapies, along with studies focused on underrepresented populations, cost-effectiveness assessments, and drug availability, are needed to bridge the care gap for patients with obesity. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Obesity is the epidemic of the 21st century. Except for the newer injectable medications, drugs with suboptimal efficacy have been available in the clinician's armamentarium for weight management. However, emerging alternatives of novel agents and combinations populate the current obesity therapeutic pipeline. This systematic review identifies the state and mechanism of action of emerging pharmacotherapies undergoing or having completed phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials. The information provided herein furthers the understanding of obesity management, implying direct clinical implications and stimulating research initiatives.

Survodutide for treatment of obesity: rationale and design of two randomized phase 3 clinical trials (SYNCHRONIZE™-1 and -2)

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to describe the rationale and design of two multinational phase 3 clinical trials of survodutide, an investigational glucagon and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor dual agonist for the treatment of obesity with or without type 2 diabetes (T2D; SYNCHRONIZE-1 and -2).

METHODS

In these ongoing double-blind trials, participants were randomized to once-weekly subcutaneous injections of survodutide or placebo added to lifestyle modification. Survodutide doses are uptitrated to 3.6 or 6.0 mg, and dose flexibility is permitted. Participants (n = 726) in SYNCHRONIZE-1 (NCT06066515) have a baseline BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 or ≥27 kg/m2 with at least one obesity-related complication but without T2D; participants (n = 755) in SYNCHRONIZE-2 (NCT06066528) have a baseline BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2 and T2D. The primary endpoints are percentage change in body weight and proportion of participants achieving ≥5% body weight reduction from baseline to week 76. Secondary endpoints include change in systolic blood pressure and measures of glycemia. A SYNCHRONIZE-1 substudy is evaluating changes in body composition and liver fat content using magnetic resonance imaging.

CONCLUSIONS

These trials are designed to provide robust evaluation of the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of survodutide for the treatment of obesity in the presence or absence of T2D.

Exercise Hemodynamics in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

Exercise intolerance is common in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. This review will discuss the utility of exercise hemodynamics under both diagnostic and prognostic circumstances and highlight challenges associated with making and interpreting measures taken during exercise.

Unraveling Comorbidities Contribution to Cardiac Diastolic Dysfunction and Heart Failure

BACKGROUND

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a major public health problem characterized by multiple simultaneous comorbidities whose specific contribution is challenging to disentangle in humans, leading to a generalized therapeutic approach that may not account for the underlying pathology.

METHODS

We followed distinct mouse models of major HFpEF comorbidities for 2.5 years to unveil their specific contribution to the syndrome.

RESULTS

All comorbidities contributed to HFpEF through partially distinct routes. Aging alone resulted in HFpEF in old age, with delayed left ventricular relaxation and kidney fibrosis. Obesity induced a faster deterioration of relaxation associated with enlarged left ventricle and liver fibrosis. Hypertension caused delayed ventricular relaxation independent from structural changes that preceded left atrial dilatation linked to aortic stiffness and increased fibrosis in myocardium and kidney. Chronic intermittent hypoxia led to HFpEF and relaxation impairment associated with pulmonary hypertension. Hyperglycemia accelerated diastolic dysfunction and HFpEF onset associated with reduced arterial flow and left ventricular remodeling. Therefore, the pathological substrates contributing to HFpEF included cardiac and noncardiac alterations with differential features for each comorbidity. Critically, the characteristics linked to diastolic dysfunction and HFpEF across the various comorbidities agreed with phenogroups observed in human patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of time-dependent pathological features provides a comprehensive picture of HFpEF progression associated with each comorbidity.

GLP-1 receptor agonists as promising anti-inflammatory agents in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) represents a significant challenge in modern cardiovascular medicine, characterized by diastolic dysfunction and a chronic pro-inflammatory milieu. The high prevalence of comorbidities such as diabetes, visceral obesity, and aging, which contribute to systemic inflammation, plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and progression of HFpEF. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs), a class of glucose-lowering drugs, have demonstrated a wide range of pleiotropic effects that extend beyond glycaemic control. These effects include the reduction of inflammation and oxidative stress, vasodilation, decreased arterial stiffness, and a reduction in myocardial fibrosis-key factors in the pathophysiology of HFpEF. Recent evidence from the STEP-HFpEF and STEP-HFpEF-DM trials provides the first robust data supporting the efficacy of GLP-1 RAs, specifically semaglutide, in improving the quality of life in obese patients with HFpEF. These trials also demonstrated a significant reduction in C-Reactive Protein (CRP) levels, reinforcing the hypothesis that suppressing the pro-inflammatory state may yield substantial clinical benefits in this patient population. These findings suggest that GLP-1 RAs could play a crucial role in the management of HFpEF, particularly in patients with obesity, by targeting the underlying inflammatory processes and contributing to better overall cardiovascular outcomes.

How We Monitor Cardiac Health in Breast Cancer Survivors

The Oncology Grand Rounds series is designed to place original reports published in the Journal into clinical context. A case presentation is followed by a description of diagnostic and management challenges, a review of the relevant literature, and a summary of the authors' suggested management approaches. The goal of this series is to help readers better understand how to apply the results of key studies, including those published in Journal of Clinical Oncology, to patients seen in their own clinical practice.

Multi-omics profiling reveals altered mitochondrial metabolism in adipose tissue from patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its more severe form steatohepatitis (MASH) contribute to rising morbidity and mortality rates. The storage of fat in humans is closely associated with these diseases' progression. Thus, adipose tissue metabolic homeostasis could be key in both the onset and progression of MASH.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control observational research using a systems biology-based approach to analyse liver, abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), omental visceral adipose tissue (VAT), and blood of n = 100 patients undergoing bariatric surgery (NCT05554224). MASH was diagnosed through histologic assessment. Whole-slide image analysis, lipidomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics were performed on tissue samples. Lipidomics and proteomics profiles were determined on plasma samples.

FINDINGS

Liver transcriptomics, proteomics, and lipidomics revealed interconnected pathways associated with inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and lipotoxicity in MASH. Paired adipose tissue biopsies had larger adipocyte areas in both fat depots in MASH. Enrichment analyses of proteomics and lipidomics data confirmed the association of liver lesions with mitochondrial dysfunction in VAT. Plasma lipidomics identified candidates with high diagnostic accuracy (AUC = 0.919, 95% CI 0.840-0.979) for screening MASH.

INTERPRETATION

Mitochondrial dysfunction is also present in VAT in patients with obesity-associated MASH. This may cause a disruption in the metabolic equilibrium of lipid processing and storage, which impacts the liver and accelerates detrimental adaptative responses.

FUNDING

The project leading to these results has received funding from 'la Caixa' Foundation (HR21-00430), and from the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII) (PI21/00510) and co-funded by the European Union.

Semaglutide effects on safety and cardiovascular outcomes in patients with overweight or obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that provides a reduction in glycated hemoglobin and weight. The objective was to evaluate whether the use of semaglutide, in individuals with overweight or obesity, reduces cardiovascular outcomes and adverse effects (AE).

METHODS

The data bases Pubmed, Lilacs, Scielo, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were surveyed.

RESULTS

Initially, 3333 articles were found, of which 19 articles were included. An additional search included 19 studies, totaling 38 articles. Relative risk (RR) values were significant for hospitalization due to heart failure (HF) 0.24 95% CI 0.12-0.57 (n = 2; 1045 participants; I² = 0.18), death due to cardiovascular causes 0.83 95% CI 0.71-0.98 (n = 3; 24 084 participants; I² = 0.21), death from any cause 0.79 95% CI 0.70-0.89 (n = 3; 24 084 participants; I² = 0.07), coronary revascularization 0.76 95% CI 0.69-0.85 (n = 2;20 951 participants; I² = 0.41), and non-fatal myocardial infarction 0.76 95%CI 0.66-0.88 (n = 3; 24 084 participants; I² = 0.21), with a difference between the subgroups (p = 0.05), favoring the subcutaneous administration route. The RR of stroke was 0.65 95% CI 0.44-0.97 for patients with diabetes (n = 2; 6480 participants; I² = 0.66). There was no difference between the frequency of constipation and routes of administration, as well as between doses of oral semaglutide. The RR of adverse effects was only not significant for discontinuation of treatment for oral semaglutide.

CONCLUSION

The use of semaglutide reduced 76% in hospitalization due to HF, 17% deaths due to cardiovascular causes, 21% deaths due to any cause, 24% non-fatal myocardial infarction, 24% coronary revascularization and 35% stroke (in patients with diabetes). The use of semaglutide was associated with a higher relative risk and frequency of most adverse effects evaluated.

Proteomic changes upon treatment with semaglutide in individuals with obesity

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are prevalent chronic diseases effectively managed by semaglutide. Here we studied the effects of semaglutide on the circulating proteome using baseline and end-of-treatment serum samples from two phase 3 trials in participants with overweight or obesity, with or without diabetes: STEP 1 (n = 1,311) and STEP 2 (n = 645). We identified evidence supporting broad effects of semaglutide, implicating processes related to body weight regulation, glycemic control, lipid metabolism and inflammatory pathways. Several proteins were regulated with semaglutide, after accounting for changes in body weight and HbA1c at end of trial, suggesting effects of semaglutide on the proteome beyond weight loss and glucose lowering. A comparison of semaglutide with real-world proteomic profiles revealed potential benefits on disease-specific proteomic signatures including the downregulation of specific proteins associated with cardiovascular disease risk, supporting its reported effects of lowering cardiovascular disease risk and potential drug repurposing opportunities. This study showcases the potential of proteomics data gathered from randomized trials for providing insights into disease mechanisms and drug repurposing opportunities. These data also highlight the unmet need for, and importance of, examining proteomic changes in response to weight loss pharmacotherapy in future trials.

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists improve outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes with and without heart failure

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1Ras) for prevention of heart failure (HF) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) without HF and for risk of death in patients with T2DM with HF has not been fully elucidated in routine clinical practice.

METHODS

Using the real-world global electronic medical record TriNetX database, individuals with T2DM and with or without HF who initiated either GLP1Ras or sitagliptin from 2017 to 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. In individuals with T2DM without HF, the primary outcome was a composite of all-cause mortality and a new diagnosis of HF within three years. In individuals with T2DM with HF, the primary outcome was all-cause mortality within three years. Propensity-score (PS) matching was used to adjust for over 100 baseline characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 65,598 individuals with T2DM without HF starting a GLP1Ras were PS matched with 65,598 starting sitagliptin. GLP1Ras were associated with a lower incidence of the composite endpoint (10.5 % versus 11.8 %, hazard ratio [HR] 0.82, [0.80-0.85], p < 0.001), mortality (HR 0.66 [0.63-0.69]) and new diagnosis of HF (HR 0.92 [0.88-0.96]). There were 6002 individuals in each group matched for T2DM and HF. Mortality was lower in the GLP1Ras group (17.6 % versus 22.8 %, HR 0.70 [0.65-0.76], p < 0.001). Results were consistent across subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

In this global real-world data analysis, GLP1Ra use was associated with a lower risk of death and HF in individuals with T2DM without HF, and lower risk of death in those with HF.

The Year in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia: Selected Highlights from 2024

This special article is the 17th in an annual series for the Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia. The authors thank the editor in chief, Dr Kaplan, and the editorial board for the opportunity to continue this series, namely, the research highlights of the past year in the specialty of cardiothoracic and vascular anesthesiology.1 The major themes selected for 2024 are outlined in this introduction, and each highlight is reviewed in detail in the main article. The literature highlights in the specialty for 2024 begin with an update on perioperative rehabilitation and enhanced recovery in cardiothoracic surgery, with a focus on novel methods to best assess our patients in the preoperative period and the impact of implementing enhanced recovery care models on outcomes. The second major theme is focused on cardiac surgery, with the authors discussing new insights into anemia, transfusions, and coronary artery bypass grafting outcomes with a focus on gender disparities. The third theme is focused on cardiothoracic transplantation, with discussions focusing on techniques related to lung transplantation, including mechanical circulatory support. The 4th theme is focused on mechanical circulatory support, with discussions exploring advancements in left ventricular assist devices highlight the evolving landscape of mechanical circulatory support and discussion of anticoagulation practices. The fifth and final theme is an update on medical cardiology, with a focus on the outcomes of transcatheter management of regurgitant pathology, device management in heart failure, and new techniques in catheter ablation. The themes selected for this article are only a few of the diverse advances in the specialty during 2024. These highlights will inform the reader of key updates on a variety of topics, leading to improvement in perioperative outcomes for patients with cardiothoracic and vascular disease.

Incretin-based therapies for the management of cardiometabolic disease in the clinic: Past, present, and future

Among newer classes of drugs for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are incretin-based agents that lower both blood sugar levels and promote weight loss. They do so by activating pancreatic GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1R) to promote glucose-dependent insulin release and inhibit glucagon secretion. They also act on receptors in the brain and gastrointestinal tract to suppress appetite, slow gastric emptying, and delay glucose absorption. Phase 3 clinical trials have shown that GLP-1 RAs improve cardiovascular outcomes in the setting of T2DM or overweight/obesity in people who have, or are at high risk of having atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This is largely driven by reductions in ischemic events, although emerging evidence also supports benefits in other cardiovascular conditions, such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. The success of GLP-1 RAs has also seen the evolution of other incretin therapies. Tirzepatide has emerged as a dual glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)/GLP-1 RA, with more striking effects on glycemic control and weight reduction than those achieved by isolated GLP-1R agonism alone. This consists of lowering glycated hemoglobin levels by more than 2% and weight loss exceeding 15% from baseline. Here, we review the pharmacological properties of GLP-1 RAs and tirzepatide and discuss their clinical effectiveness for T2DM and overweight/obesity, including their ability to reduce adverse cardiovascular outcomes. We also delve into the mechanistic basis for these cardioprotective effects and consider the next steps in implementing existing and future incretin-based therapies for the broader management of cardiometabolic disease.