1
|
Zheng Z, Pan J, Liu M, Chen Z, Zhang L, Gao J, Gao P, Zhang X. Anemia and testosterone deficiency risk: insights from NHANES data analysis and a Mendelian randomization analysis. Aging Male 2024; 27:2346312. [PMID: 38685728 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2024.2346312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous research has shown that testosterone deficiency (TD) increases the risk of anemia, but it is unclear whether anemia affects testosterone levels. This study investigated the influence of anemia on testosterone levels. METHODS Utilizing data from six NHANES cycles, including demographic, testosterone levels, and hemoglobin concentrations, we employed multivariable-adjusted logistic regression to investigate the relationship between anemia and testosterone levels. Moreover, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study employing genome-wide association study (GWAS) data examined the causal relationship. Kaplan-Meier survival estimation was used to compared the overall survival (OS) of anemic and nonanemic patients with low testosterone and normal testosterone levels. RESULTS The inclusion of 21,786 participants (2318 with anemia and19,468 without anemia) revealed that nonanemic patients exhibited higher testosterone levels than did anemic patients (β = 22.616, 95% CI: 3.873-41.359, p = 0.01807). MR analysis confirmed anemia as a cause of TD (OR = 1.045, 95% CI: 1.020-1.071, p < 0.001). Anemic males with low testosterone had reduced OS compared to those with normal levels (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Anemia emerged as a potential risk factor for TD, highlighting a bidirectional relationship between these conditions. Additional prospective investigations are essential for the validation and reinforcement of our findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenming Zheng
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Jiashan Pan
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Ming Liu
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Zhimin Chen
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Lvwen Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Jingjing Gao
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Pan Gao
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| | - Xiansheng Zhang
- Department of Urology, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Institute of Urology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Genitourinary Diseases, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Verghese D, Hamal S, Ghanem A, Kinninger A, Javier D, Ichikawa K, Benzing T, Krishnan S, Kianoush S, Hamidi H, Bagheri M, Abraham D, Deljavanghodrati M, Ghoto A, Aldana-Bitar J, Budoff M. Effect of colchicine on progression of known coronary atherosclerosis in patients with STable CoROnary artery disease CoMpared to placebo (EKSTROM) trial-rationale and design. Am Heart J 2024; 277:20-26. [PMID: 39029568 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2024.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular disease is the major cause of mortality in the United States. Despite lifestyle modification and traditional risk factor control residual inflammatory risk remains an untreated concern. Colchicine is an oral, medication that has been used for gout, mediterranean fever and pericarditis for decades. In recent trials, colchicine has been shown to reduce major adverse cardiovascular events, however the mechanism of benefit remains unclear. The objective of the randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled EKSTROM trial is to evaluate the effects of colchicine 0.5mg/day on atherosclerotic plaque. METHODS Eighty-four participants will be enrolled after obtaining informed consent and followed for 12 months. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to colchicine 0.5mg/day or placebo in a 1:1 fashion as add-on to their standard of care. All participants will undergo coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) at baseline and at 12 months. RESULTS As of November 2023, the study is 100% enrolled with an expected end of study by the second quarter of 2024. The primary endpoint is change in low attenuation plaque volume as measured by CCTA. Secondary endpoints include change in volume of different plaque types (including total atheroma volume, noncalcified plaque volume, dense calcified plaque volume, remodeling index), change in inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, IL-18, hs-CRP), change in pericoronary adipose tissue attenuation, change in epicardial adipose tissue volume and attenuation and change in brachial flow mediated dilation. CONCLUSION EKSTROM is the first randomized study to assess the effects of colchicine on plaque progression, pericoronary and epicardial fat. EKSTROM will provide important information on the mechanistic effects of colchicine on the cardiovascular system. TRIAL REGISTRATION Registry: clinicaltrials.gov, Registration Number: NCT06342609 url: https://www. CLINICALTRIALS gov/study/NCT06342609?term=EKSTROM&rank=1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dhiran Verghese
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California; Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, NCH Rooney Heart Institute, Naples, Florida.
| | - Sajad Hamal
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Ahmed Ghanem
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - April Kinninger
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Denise Javier
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Keshi Ichikawa
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Travis Benzing
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Srikanth Krishnan
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Sina Kianoush
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Hossein Hamidi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Marziyeh Bagheri
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Divya Abraham
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Mina Deljavanghodrati
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Ayesha Ghoto
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Jairo Aldana-Bitar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Matthew Budoff
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
de Silva NL, Grant B, Minhas S, Jayasena CN. Cardiovascular disease and testosterone therapy in male hypogonadism. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2024. [PMID: 39243393 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.15211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
This review assesses the evidence of the physiological effects of testosterone on cardiovascular health, the association between male hypogonadism and cardiovascular health, and the effects of testosterone therapy on cardiovascular health in male hypogonadism. Preclinical studies suggest complex effects of testosterone on cardiovascular risk by acting on skeletal muscle, cardiomyocytes, vasculature, adipocytes, insulin action, and erythropoiesis. Furthermore, low testosterone has a bi-directional association with cardiometabolic risk. Observational studies have reported worse metabolic profiles in men with organic hypogonadism. However, a consistent association between major cardiovascular events and male hypogonadism has not been established. Hematocrit increases with testosterone therapy; however, most studies do not report an increase in venous thromboembolism risk. Although some observational studies and a small randomized controlled study reported an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, recent data confirm the medium-term cardiovascular safety of testosterone therapy in middle-aged and older men with low testosterone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nipun Lakshitha de Silva
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Bonnie Grant
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Suks Minhas
- Department of Urology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Kim GY, Conduit C, O'Haire S, Chong CY, Baenziger O, Lewin J, Thomas B, Lawrentschuk N, Stockler MR, Olver I, Grimison P, Tran B. Association between low total serum testosterone and body mass index in Australian survivors of testicular cancer: a retrospective analysis. Basic Clin Androl 2024; 34:14. [PMID: 39223491 PMCID: PMC11369996 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-024-00230-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary hypogonadism is a recognised complication in survivors of testicular cancer. However, secondary hypogonadism can result from other causes that suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, including obesity, high dose glucocorticoids, chronic end organ failure, and diabetes. The aim of this study was to explore low total serum testosterone in Australian survivors of testicular cancer and examine associations with body mass index, age, and prior chemotherapy use. METHODS Clinical data including height, weight, diagnosis, treatment, and hormonal evaluations during follow-up were extracted from the Australian and New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate (ANZUP) Cancer Trials Group Chemocog study (2007-2012), accompanied by data from two Australian, high-volume testicular cancer centres included in the iTestis testicular cancer registry (2012-2019). Low testosterone was defined by a serum concentration of testosterone (T) < 10 nmol/L, and was classified as primary by a serum concentration of luteinising hormone (LH) > 8 IU/L, otherwise as secondary. RESULTS Two hundred eighty-five individuals with either stage 1 or advanced testicular cancer were included. Of these, 105 (37%) were treated with orchidectomy and chemotherapy. Forty-nine (17%) met criteria for low testosterone during follow-up: 21 (43%) had primary and 27 (55%) had secondary low testosterone. Survivors of testicular cancer with higher body mass index were more likely to display low testosterone, both primary (p = 0.032) and secondary (p = 0.028). Our data did not show evidence of an association between older age or chemotherapy use and low testosterone in our cohort. CONCLUSIONS Low total serum testosterone was common in survivors of testicular cancer, and associated with a higher body mass index prior to orchidectomy, suggesting that elevated body mass index may contribute to low testosterone in this population, and that body weight, diet, and exercise should be addressed in testicular cancer follow-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grace Y Kim
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Ciara Conduit
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Sophie O'Haire
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Chia Yuen Chong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Olivia Baenziger
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jeremy Lewin
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- ONTrac at Peter Mac Victorian Adolescent & Young Adult Cancer Service, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Benjamin Thomas
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Nathan Lawrentschuk
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Epworth Freemasons Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Martin R Stockler
- National Health and Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ian Olver
- Australian and New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate (ANZUP) Cancer Trials Group, Barangaroo, NSW, Australia
| | - Peter Grimison
- National Health and Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Centre, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia
- Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Ben Tran
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- Epworth Freemasons Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nieman K, García-García HM, Hideo-Kajita A, Collet C, Dey D, Pugliese F, Weissman G, Tijssen JGP, Leipsic J, Opolski MP, Ferencik M, Lu MT, Williams MC, Bruining N, Blanco PJ, Maurovich-Horvat P, Achenbach S. Standards for quantitative assessments by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA): An expert consensus document of the society of cardiovascular computed tomography (SCCT). J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr 2024; 18:429-443. [PMID: 38849237 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcct.2024.05.232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024]
Abstract
In current clinical practice, qualitative or semi-quantitative measures are primarily used to report coronary artery disease on cardiac CT. With advancements in cardiac CT technology and automated post-processing tools, quantitative measures of coronary disease severity have become more broadly available. Quantitative coronary CT angiography has great potential value for clinical management of patients, but also for research. This document aims to provide definitions and standards for the performance and reporting of quantitative measures of coronary artery disease by cardiac CT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koen Nieman
- Stanford University School of Medicine and Cardiovascular Institute, Stanford, CA, United States.
| | - Hector M García-García
- Section of Interventional Cardiology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, United States.
| | | | - Carlos Collet
- Onze Lieve Vrouwziekenhuis, Cardiovascular Center Aalst, Aalst, Belgium
| | - Damini Dey
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Francesca Pugliese
- NIHR Cardiovascular Biomedical Research Unit at Barts, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London & Department of Cardiology, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Gaby Weissman
- Section of Interventional Cardiology, MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Jan G P Tijssen
- Department of Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Room G4-230, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jonathon Leipsic
- Department of Radiology and Medicine (Cardiology), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Maksymilian P Opolski
- Department of Interventional Cardiology and Angiology, National Institute of Cardiology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maros Ferencik
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Michael T Lu
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michelle C Williams
- BHF Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Nico Bruining
- Department of Cardiology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Pal Maurovich-Horvat
- MTA-SE Cardiovascular Imaging Research Group, Medical Imaging Centre, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Stephan Achenbach
- Department of Cardiology, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hamid H, Bagheri M, Benzing T, Krishnan S, Kianoush S, Ichikawa K, Ghanem AK, Javier D, Iskander B, Aldana-Bitar J, Budoff MJ. Effect of tirzepatide on the progression of coronary atherosclerosis using MDCT: Rationale and design of the Tirzepatide treatment on coronary atherosclerosis progression: The (T-PLAQUE) randomized-controlled trial design: tirzepatide and plaque. Am Heart J 2024:S0002-8703(24)00218-7. [PMID: 39187147 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahj.2024.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tirzepatide is a novel once-week dual GIP/GLP-1 RA agonist approved for T2DM and its role to reduce cardiovascular events remains to be elucidated. The goal of this trial is to assess how tirzepatide affects the progression of atherosclerotic plaque as determined by multidetector computed tomography angiography (MDCTA). METHODS This trial is a double blind, randomized, prospective, placebo-controlled multi-center phase IV trial. Participant eligible for the study will be adults with T2DM between 40 and 80 years of age who have HbA1c ≥7.0% to ≤10.5% and at least 20% stenosis in major epicardial vessel on CCTA. Baseline examination will include the results of their demographics, lab tests, coronary calcium, as well as coronary plaque volume/composition. Following randomization, tirzepatide or placebo will be given at a weekly dose of 2.5 mg, and a fixed dose-escalation strategy will be followed. Patients will undergo quarterly visits for safety assessments and labs, and follow up with repeat CCTA at 1 year. DISCUSSION This study evaluates the anti-atherogenic potential of tirzepatide, providing a mechanism of potential CV benefit. This is crucial to our understanding of T2DM treatment and CVD since plaque progression portends worse outcomes in these populations. MDCTA is a noninvasive method that assesses the volume, composition, and degree of coronary vessel stenosis. CONCLUSION This study will be the first study to assess the effects of tirzepatide on atherosclerotic plaque progression measured by MDCTA in participants with T2DM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Hamid
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Marziyeh Bagheri
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Travis Benzing
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Srikanth Krishnan
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Sina Kianoush
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Keishi Ichikawa
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Ahmed K Ghanem
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Denise Javier
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Beshoy Iskander
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Jairo Aldana-Bitar
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA
| | - Matthew J Budoff
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA, 90502, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
De Silva NL, Papanikolaou N, Grossmann M, Antonio L, Quinton R, Anawalt BD, Jayasena CN. Male hypogonadism: pathogenesis, diagnosis, and management. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2024:S2213-8587(24)00199-2. [PMID: 39159641 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(24)00199-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Organic male hypogonadism due to irreversible hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) pathology is easily diagnosed and treated with testosterone-replacement therapy. However, controversy surrounds the global practice of prescribing testosterone to symptomatic men with low testosterone and non-gonadal factors reducing health status, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and ageing (ie, functional hypogonadism), but without identifiable HPT axis pathology. Health optimisation remains the gold-standard management strategy. Nevertheless, in the last decade large clinical trials and an individual patient data meta-analysis of smaller clinical trials confirmed that testosterone therapy induces modest, yet statistically significant, improvements in sexual function without increasing short-term to medium-term cardiovascular or prostate cancer risks in men with functional hypogonadism. Although testosterone improves bone mineral density and insulin sensitivity in these men, trials from the last decade suggest insufficient evidence to determine the safety and effectiveness of use of this hormone for the prevention of fractures or type 2 diabetes. This Review discusses the pathogenesis and diagnosis of male hypogonadism and appraises the evidence underpinning the management of this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nipun Lakshitha De Silva
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; Faculty of Medicine, General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Nikoleta Papanikolaou
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Leen Antonio
- Department of Chronic Diseases and Metabolism (CHROMETA), Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Endocrinology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK; Northern Regional Gender Dysphoria Service, Cumbria Northumberland Tyne & Wear NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Bradley David Anawalt
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Krishnan S, Aldana-Bitar J, Golub I, Kianoush S, Benzing T, Ichikawa K, Budoff MJ. Testosterone replacement therapy and cardiovascular risk: TRAVERSE with caution. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2024:S0033-0620(24)00100-2. [PMID: 39029567 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2024.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Krishnan
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, United States
| | - Jairo Aldana-Bitar
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, United States
| | - Ilana Golub
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, United States; David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095, United States
| | - Sina Kianoush
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, United States
| | - Travis Benzing
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, United States
| | - Keishi Ichikawa
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, United States
| | - Matthew J Budoff
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Grossmann M, Anawalt BD, Yeap BB. Testosterone therapy in older men: clinical implications of recent landmark trials. Eur J Endocrinol 2024; 191:R22-R31. [PMID: 38917356 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvae071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Testosterone therapy for men with hypogonadism due to identifiable hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) pathology is uncontroversial. However, the risks and benefits of testosterone for men with clinical features of hypogonadism in the absence of identifiable HPT axis pathology have been uncertain. Recent landmark placebo-controlled trials assessed the benefits and risks of testosterone therapy (≤3 years) for middle-aged and older men with symptoms and possible signs of hypogonadism or end-organ androgen deficiency, low or low-normal serum testosterone concentrations, but no HPT pathology: Testosterone therapy (1) had modest-but clinically significant-benefits on average self-reported energy and mood, sexual function, and satisfaction; (2) in conjunction with a lifestyle programme, reversed or reduced incident type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D) in men at high risk of or newly diagnosed with T2D; (3) modestly improved objectively assessed muscle strength and timed walking distance; (4) increased bone density and strength, but did not reduce falls or typical osteoporotic fractures and surprisingly increased the risk of fractures typically attributable to trauma; and (5) did not significantly increase the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or prostate cancer. These landmark trials help to inform clinical decision-making about testosterone therapy for men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Bradley D Anawalt
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Bu B Yeap
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Aldana-Bitar J, Bhatt DL, Budoff MJ. Regression and stabilization of atherogenic plaques. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2024; 34:340-346. [PMID: 37494987 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic plaque assessment has become a crucial element in the examination of cardiovascular diseases. Plaque may exhibit progression and could become unstable if not treated, making plaque regression and stabilization among the most important goals of any cardiovascular intervention in cardiovascular medicine. In this review, we explore the current understanding of plaque regression and stabilization, discuss imaging and measurement techniques, and examine the evidence for pharmacological interventions and other interventions aimed at addressing this condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jairo Aldana-Bitar
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Division of Cardiology, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Deepak L Bhatt
- Mount Sinai Heart, Dr. Valentin Fuster Professor of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Health System, New York, NY, USA
| | - Matthew J Budoff
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Division of Cardiology, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Wang Z, Zhang G, Hu S, Fu M, Zhang P, Zhang K, Hao L, Chen S. Research progress on the protective effect of hormones and hormone drugs in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116764. [PMID: 38805965 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a condition where the heart muscle does not receive enough blood flow, leading to cardiac dysfunction. Restoring blood flow to the coronary artery is an effective clinical therapy for myocardial ischemia. This strategy helps lower the size of the myocardial infarction and improves the prognosis of patients. Nevertheless, if the disrupted blood flow to the heart muscle is restored within a specific timeframe, it leads to more severe harm to the previously deprived heart tissue. This condition is referred to as myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury (MIRI). Until now, there is a dearth of efficacious strategies to prevent and manage MIRI. Hormones are specialized substances that are produced directly into the circulation by endocrine organs or tissues in humans and animals, and they have particular effects on the body. Hormonal medications utilize human or animal hormones as their active components, encompassing sex hormones, adrenaline medications, thyroid hormone medications, and others. While several studies have examined the preventive properties of different endocrine hormones, such as estrogen and hormone analogs, on myocardial injury caused by ischemia-reperfusion, there are other hormone analogs whose mechanisms of action remain unexplained and whose safety cannot be assured. The current study is on hormones and hormone medications, elucidating the mechanism of hormone pharmaceuticals and emphasizing the cardioprotective effects of different endocrine hormones. It aims to provide guidance for the therapeutic use of drugs and offer direction for the examination of MIRI in clinical therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhongyi Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Gaojiang Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Shan Hu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Meilin Fu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Pingyuan Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Kuo Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China
| | - Liying Hao
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.
| | - Sichong Chen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, China Medical University, Shenyang, 110122, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Sarraju A, Nissen SE. Atherosclerotic plaque stabilization and regression: a review of clinical evidence. Nat Rev Cardiol 2024; 21:487-497. [PMID: 38177454 DOI: 10.1038/s41569-023-00979-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Atherosclerotic plaque results from a complex interplay between lipid deposition, inflammatory changes, cell migration and arterial wall injury. Over the past two decades, clinical trials utilizing invasive arterial imaging modalities, such as intravascular ultrasonography, have shown that reducing levels of atherogenic lipoproteins, mainly serum LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C), to very low levels can safely reduce overall atherosclerotic plaque burden and favourably modify plaque composition. Classically, this outcome has been achieved with intensive statin therapy. Since 2016, newer and potent lipid-lowering strategies, such as proprotein convertase subtilisin-kexin type 9 inhibition, have shown incremental effects on plaque regression and risk of clinical events. Despite maximal reduction in plasma LDL-C levels, considerable residual cardiovascular risk remains in some patients. Therefore, there is a need to study therapeutic approaches that address residual risk beyond LDL-C reduction to promote plaque stabilization or regression. Contemporary imaging modalities, such as coronary computed tomography angiography, enable non-invasive assessment of the overall atherosclerotic plaque burden as well as of certain local plaque characteristics. This technology could allow further study of plaque stabilization and regression using novel therapeutic approaches. Non-invasive plaque assessment might also offer the potential to guide personalized management strategies if validated for this purpose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashish Sarraju
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Steven E Nissen
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, OH, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chen K, Wong TH, Tan YG, Tay KJ, Tan WC, Chan J, Ho H, Cheng C, Teoh JYC, Chiu PKF, Wang HJ, Saad MB, Kanesvaran R, Li YQ, Ng CT, Tuan JKL, Yuen JSP. Cardio-oncology in advanced prostate cancer. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1386597. [PMID: 38947889 PMCID: PMC11211357 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1386597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Treatment intensification with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPi) have led to improved survival in advanced prostate cancer. However, ADT is linked to significant cardiovascular toxicity, and ARPi also negatively impacts cardiovascular health. Together with a higher prevalence of baseline cardiovascular risk factors reported among prostate cancer survivors at diagnosis, there is a pressing need to prioritise and optimise cardiovascular health in this population. Firstly, While no dedicated cardiovascular toxicity risk calculators are available, other tools such as SCORE2 can be used for baseline cardiovascular risk assessment. Next, selected patients on combination therapy may benefit from de-escalation of ADT to minimise its toxicities while maintaining cancer control. These patients can be characterised by an exceptional PSA response to hormonal treatment, favourable disease characteristics and competing comorbidities that warrant a less aggressive treatment regime. In addition, emerging molecular and genomic biomarkers hold the potential to identify patients who are suited for a de-escalated treatment approach either with ADT or with ARPi. One such biomarker is AR-V7 splice variant that predicts resistance to ARPi. Lastly, optimization of modifiable cardiovascular risk factors for patients through a coherent framework (ABCDE) and exercise therapy is equally important. This article aims to comprehensively review the cardiovascular impact of hormonal manipulation in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer, propose overarching strategies to mitigate cardiovascular toxicity associated with hormonal treatment, and, most importantly, raise awareness about the detrimental cardiovascular effects inherent in our current management strategies involving hormonal agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Chen
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ting Hong Wong
- Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yu Guang Tan
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Kae Jack Tay
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wei Chong Tan
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Johan Chan
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Henry Ho
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Christopher Cheng
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jeremy Yuen-Chun Teoh
- S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Peter Ka-Fung Chiu
- S. H. Ho Urology Centre, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hung Jen Wang
- Department of Urology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University and College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Marniza Binti Saad
- Department of Clinical Oncology, University of Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ravindran Kanesvaran
- Division of Medical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - You Quan Li
- Division of Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Choon Ta Ng
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - John Shyi Peng Yuen
- Department of Urology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
- Division of Surgery and Surgical Oncology, National Cancer Centre Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lee SN, Lin A, Dey D, Berman DS, Han D. Application of Quantitative Assessment of Coronary Atherosclerosis by Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiography. Korean J Radiol 2024; 25:518-539. [PMID: 38807334 PMCID: PMC11136945 DOI: 10.3348/kjr.2023.1311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has emerged as a pivotal tool for diagnosing and risk-stratifying patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD). Recent advancements in image analysis and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques have enabled the comprehensive quantitative analysis of coronary atherosclerosis. Fully quantitative assessments of coronary stenosis and lumen attenuation have improved the accuracy of assessing stenosis severity and predicting hemodynamically significant lesions. In addition to stenosis evaluation, quantitative plaque analysis plays a crucial role in predicting and monitoring CAD progression. Studies have demonstrated that the quantitative assessment of plaque subtypes based on CT attenuation provides a nuanced understanding of plaque characteristics and their association with cardiovascular events. Quantitative analysis of serial CCTA scans offers a unique perspective on the impact of medical therapies on plaque modification. However, challenges such as time-intensive analyses and variability in software platforms still need to be addressed for broader clinical implementation. The paradigm of CCTA has shifted towards comprehensive quantitative plaque analysis facilitated by technological advancements. As these methods continue to evolve, their integration into routine clinical practice has the potential to enhance risk assessment and guide individualized patient management. This article reviews the evolving landscape of quantitative plaque analysis in CCTA and explores its applications and limitations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su Nam Lee
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Andrew Lin
- Monash Cardiovascular Research Centre, Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University and MonashHeart, Monash Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Damini Dey
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Daniel S Berman
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Donghee Han
- Department of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Klinaki E, Ogrodnik M. In the land of not-unhappiness: On the state-of-the-art of targeting aging and age-related diseases by biomedical research. Mech Ageing Dev 2024; 219:111929. [PMID: 38561164 DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2024.111929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The concept of the Land of Not-Unhappiness refers to the potential achievement of eliminating the pathologies of the aging process. To inform of how close we are to settling in the land, we summarize and review the achievements of research on anti-aging interventions over the last hundred years with a specific focus on strategies that slow down metabolism, compensate for aging-related losses, and target a broad range of age-related diseases. We critically evaluate the existing interventions labeled as "anti-aging," such as calorie restriction, exercise, stem cell administration, and senolytics, to provide a down-to-earth evaluation of their current applicability in counteracting aging. Throughout the text, we have maintained a light tone to make it accessible to non-experts in biogerontology, and provide a broad overview for those considering conducting studies, research, or seeking to understand the scientific basis of anti-aging medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Klinaki
- Ludwig Boltzmann Research Group Senescence and Healing of Wounds, Vienna 1200, Austria; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna 1200, Austria; Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mikolaj Ogrodnik
- Ludwig Boltzmann Research Group Senescence and Healing of Wounds, Vienna 1200, Austria; Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Traumatology, The Research Centre in Cooperation with AUVA, Vienna 1200, Austria; Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Tran C, Yeap BB, Ball J, Clayton-Chubb D, Hussain SM, Brodtmann A, Tonkin AM, Neumann JT, Schneider HG, Fitzgerald S, Woods RL, McNeil JJ. Testosterone and the risk of incident atrial fibrillation in older men: further analysis of the ASPREE study. EClinicalMedicine 2024; 72:102611. [PMID: 38707912 PMCID: PMC11067494 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background A cardiovascular safety trial of testosterone in men with cardiovascular risk factors or disease found no difference in rates of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) or death but noted more atrial fibrillation (AF) events in testosterone-treated men. We investigated the relationship between endogenous testosterone concentrations with risk of developing AF in healthy older men. Methods Post-hoc analysis of 4570 male participants in the ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) study. Men were aged ≥ 70 years, had no history of cardiovascular disease (including AF), thyroid disease, prostate cancer, dementia, or life-threatening illnesses. Risk of AF was modelled using Cox proportional hazards regression. Findings Median (IQR) age was 73.7 (71.6-77.1) years and median (IQR) follow-up 4.4 (3.3-5.5) years, during which 286 men developed AF (15.3 per 1000 participant-years). Baseline testosterone was higher in men who developed incident AF compared men who did not [17.0 (12.4-21.2) vs 15.7 (12.2-20.0) nmol/L]. There was a non-linear association of baseline testosterone with incident AF. The risk for AF was higher in men with testosterone in quintiles (Q) 4&5 (Q4:Q3, HR = 1.91; 95%CI = 1.29-2.83 and Q5:Q3HR = 1.98; 95%CI = 1.33-2.94). Results were similar after excluding men who experienced MACE or heart failure during follow-up. Interpretation Circulating testosterone concentrations within the high-normal range are independently associated with an increased risk of incident AF amongst healthy older men. This suggests that AF may be an adverse consequence of high-normal total testosterone concentrations. Funding National Institute on Aging and National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health; Australian Government (NHMRC, CSIRO); Monash University; and AlfredHealth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cammie Tran
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bu B. Yeap
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jocasta Ball
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Daniel Clayton-Chubb
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sultana Monira Hussain
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Melbourne Medical School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amy Brodtmann
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrew M. Tonkin
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Johannes T. Neumann
- University Heart and Vascular Center Hamburg, University Medical Center Hamburg – Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center of Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lubeck, Germany
| | - Hans G. Schneider
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Clinical Biochemistry Unit Alfred Pathology Service Alfred Health Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharyn Fitzgerald
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robyn L. Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - John J. McNeil
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Tang L, Chen M, Li J, Xu X, Pu X. Association of testosterone with myocardial infarction and severity of coronary artery disease among male patients. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CARDIOLOGY. CARDIOVASCULAR RISK AND PREVENTION 2024; 21:200281. [PMID: 38779505 PMCID: PMC11109021 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcrp.2024.200281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Background Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in aging populations. Men typically exhibit higher rates of CHD compared to women, with testosterone levels inversely associated with cardiovascular risk. This study investigates the relationship between testosterone levels and angiographically confirmed CHD, disease severity, and myocardial infarction (MI) among CHD cases. Methods A cohort of 1724 male patients undergoing diagnostic or interventional coronary angiography was examined. Demographic, clinical, and biochemical data were collected, including serum total testosterone levels. The severity of CHD was assessed using the Gensini score, and MI cases were diagnosed according to World Health Organization criteria. Results Results revealed significant differences in testosterone levels among CHD subtypes, particularly between MI and unstable angina/stable angina groups (p < 0.001). Testosterone levels were inversely correlated with CHD severity, as evidenced by the Gensini score (Pearson coefficient = -0.062, P = 0.004). Cross-validation random forest analysis demonstrated the significant contribution of testosterone to CHD severity discrimination (p < 0.05). Conclusions There is an association between testosterone and a predisposition to severe CAD indicated by Gensini score and myocardial infarction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lujing Tang
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Children's Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China
| | - Mengsha Chen
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China
| | - Jiahao Li
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China
| | - Xiaodong Xu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China
| | - Xiangyuan Pu
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Aldana-Bitar J, Golub IS, Moore J, Krishnan S, Verghese D, Manubolu VS, Benzing T, Ichikawa K, Hamal S, Kianoush S, Anderson LR, Ramirez NR, Leipsic JA, Karlsberg RP, Budoff MJ. Colchicine and plaque: A focus on atherosclerosis imaging. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2024; 84:68-75. [PMID: 38423236 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2024.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Colchicine is an anti-inflammatory medication, classically used to treat a wide spectrum of autoimmune diseases. More recently, colchicine has proven itself a key pharmacotherapy in cardiovascular disease (CVD) management, atherosclerotic plaque modification, and coronary artery disease (CAD) treatment. Colchicine acts on many anti-inflammatory pathways, which translates to cardiovascular event reduction, plaque transformation, and plaque reduction. With the FDA's 2023 approval of colchicine for reducing cardiovascular events, a novel clinical pathway opens. This advancement paves the route for CVD management that synergistically merges lipid lowering approaches with inflammation inhibition modalities. This pioneering moment spurs the need for this manuscript's comprehensive review. Hence, this paper synthesizes and surveys colchicine's new role as an atherosclerotic plaque modifier, to provide a framework for physicians in the clinical setting. We aim to improve understanding (and thereby application) of colchicine alongside existing mechanisms for CVD event reduction. This paper examines colchicine's anti-inflammatory mechanism, and reviews large cohort studies that evidence colchicine's blossoming role within CAD management. This paper also outlines imaging modalities for atherosclerotic analysis, reviews colchicine's mechanistic effect upon plaque transformation itself, and synthesizes trials which assess colchicine's nuanced effect upon atherosclerotic transformation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jairo Aldana-Bitar
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; Cardiovascular Research Foundation of Southern California, Beverly Hills, CA, USA.
| | - Ilana S Golub
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Jeff Moore
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Srikanth Krishnan
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, University of California Los Angeles, Westwood, CA, USA
| | - Dhiran Verghese
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Venkat S Manubolu
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Travis Benzing
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Keshi Ichikawa
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Sajad Hamal
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Sina Kianoush
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Lauren R Anderson
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation of Southern California, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
| | - Noah R Ramirez
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation of Southern California, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
| | - Jonathon A Leipsic
- Department of Medicine and Radiology, University of British Columbia, Canada
| | - Ronald P Karlsberg
- Cardiovascular Research Foundation of Southern California, Beverly Hills, CA, USA
| | - Matthew J Budoff
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1124 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Corona G, Rastrelli G, Sparano C, Carinci V, Casella G, Vignozzi L, Sforza A, Maggi M. Cardiovascular safety of testosterone replacement therapy in men: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2024; 23:565-579. [PMID: 38553429 DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2024.2337741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The cardiovascular (CV) safety of testosterone (T) replacement therapy (TRT) is still conflicting. Recent data suggested a TRT-related increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study was to systematic review and meta-analyze CV risk related to TRT as derived from placebo controlled randomized trials (RCTs). AREAS COVERED An extensive Medline, Embase, and Cochrane search was performed. All placebo-controlled RCTs reporting data on TRT-related CV safety were considered. To better analyze the role of T on AF, population-based studies investigating the relationship between endogenous circulating T levels and AF incidence were also included and analyzed. EXPERT OPINION Out of 3.615, 106 studies were considered, including 8.126 subjects treated with TRT and 7.310 patients allocated to placebo. No difference between TRT and placebo was observed when major adverse CV events were considered. Whereas the incidence of non-fatal arrhythmias and AF was increased in the only trial considering CV safety as the primary endpoint, this was not confirmed when all other studies were considered (MH-OR 1.61[0.84;3.08] and 1.44[0.46;4.46]). Similarly, no relationship between endogenous T levels and AF incidence was observed after the adjustment for confounders Available data confirm that TRT is safe and it is not related to an increased CV risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Azienda AUSL, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Rastrelli
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Mario Serio" Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Clotilde Sparano
- Endocrinology Unit, Mario Serio" Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Valeria Carinci
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda AUSL, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gianni Casella
- Cardiology Unit, Azienda AUSL, Maggiore Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology and Gender Incongruence Unit, Mario Serio" Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Mario Maggi
- Endocrinology Unit, Mario Serio" Department of Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Krishnan S, Aldana-Bitar J, Golub I, Ichikawa K, Shabir A, Bagheri M, Hamidi H, Benzing T, Kianoush S, Budoff MJ. Testosterone therapy and the risk of cardiovascular disease in older, hypogonadal men. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2024; 84:14-18. [PMID: 38423237 DOI: 10.1016/j.pcad.2024.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The debate over the cardiovascular (CV) implications of testosterone therapy (TT) have resulted in diverging safety recommendations and clinical guidelines worldwide. This narrative review synthesizes and critically evaluates long-term studies examining the effects of TT within the context of aging, obesity, and endogenous sex hormones on CV disease (CVD) risk to support informed clinical decision-making. Observational studies have variably linked low endogenous testosterone with increased CVD risk, while randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrate that TT yields cardiometabolic benefits without increasing short-term CV risk. The TRAVERSE trial, as the first RCT powered to assess CVD events, did not show increased major adverse cardiac events (MACE) incidence; however, its limitations - specifically the maintenance of testosterone at low-normal levels, a high participant discontinuation rate, and short follow-up - warrant a careful interpretation of its results. Furthermore, findings from the TTrials cardiovascular sub-study, which showed an increase in non-calcified plaque, indicate the need for ongoing research into the long-term CV impact of TT. The decision to initiate TT should consider the current evidence gaps, particularly for older men with known CVD. The CV effects of maintaining physiological testosterone levels through exogenous means remain to be fully explored. Until more definitive evidence is available, clinical practice should prioritize individualized care and informed discussions on the potential CV implications of TT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Srikanth Krishnan
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502.
| | - Jairo Aldana-Bitar
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Ilana Golub
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502; David Geffen School of Medicine at University of California Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Keishi Ichikawa
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Ayesha Shabir
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Marziyeh Bagheri
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Hossein Hamidi
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Travis Benzing
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Sina Kianoush
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502
| | - Matthew J Budoff
- The Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, 1124 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90502.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Green DJ, Chasland LC, Yeap BB, Naylor LH. Comparing the Impacts of Testosterone and Exercise on Lean Body Mass, Strength and Aerobic Fitness in Aging Men. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2024; 10:30. [PMID: 38563849 PMCID: PMC10987448 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-024-00703-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Based on the largely untested premise that it is a restorative hormone that may reverse the detrimental impacts of aging, prescription of testosterone (T) has increased in recent decades despite no new clinical indications. It is apparent that middle-aged and older men with low-normal serum T levels are considering T supplementation as an anti-aging strategy. At the same time, there is evidence that physical activity (PA) is at historical lows in the Western world. In this review, we compare the impacts of T treatment aimed at achieving physiological T concentrations in middle-aged and older men, alongside the impacts of ecologically relevant forms of exercise training. The independent, and possible combined, effects of T and exercise therapy on physiological outcomes such as aerobic fitness, body composition and muscular strength are addressed. MAIN BODY Our findings suggest that both T treatment and exercise improve lean body mass in healthy older men. If improvement in lean body mass is the primary aim, then T treatment could be considered, and the combination of T and exercise may be more beneficial than either in isolation. In terms of muscle strength in older age, an exercise program is likely to be more beneficial than T treatment (where the dose is aimed at achieving physiological concentrations), and the addition of such T treatment does not provide further benefit beyond that of exercise alone. For aerobic fitness, T at doses aimed at achieving physiological concentrations has relatively modest impacts, particularly in comparison to exercise training, and there is limited evidence as to additive effects. Whilst higher doses of T, particularly by intramuscular injection, may have larger impacts on lean body mass and strength, this must be balanced against potential risks. CONCLUSION Knowing the impacts of T treatment and exercise on variables such as body composition, strength and aerobic fitness extends our understanding of the relative benefits of physiological and pharmacological interventions in aging men. Our review suggests that T has impacts on strength, body composition and aerobic fitness outcomes that are dependent upon dose, route of administration, and formulation. T treatment aimed at achieving physiological T concentrations in middle-aged and older men can improve lean body mass, whilst exercise training enhances lean body mass, aerobic fitness and strength. Men who are physically able to exercise safely should be encouraged to do so, not only in terms of building lean body mass, strength and aerobic fitness, but for the myriad health benefits that exercise training confers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Green
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia.
| | - Lauren C Chasland
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Allied Health Department, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Bu B Yeap
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Louise H Naylor
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Allied Health Department, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lu MT, Ribaudo H, Foldyna B, Zanni MV, Mayrhofer T, Karady J, Taron J, Fitch KV, McCallum S, Burdo TH, Paradis K, Hedgire SS, Meyersohn NM, DeFilippi C, Malvestutto CD, Sturniolo A, Diggs M, Siminski S, Bloomfield GS, Alston-Smith B, Desvigne-Nickens P, Overton ET, Currier JS, Aberg JA, Fichtenbaum CJ, Hoffmann U, Douglas PS, Grinspoon SK. Effects of Pitavastatin on Coronary Artery Disease and Inflammatory Biomarkers in HIV: Mechanistic Substudy of the REPRIEVE Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Cardiol 2024; 9:323-334. [PMID: 38381407 PMCID: PMC10882511 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2023.5661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
Importance Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increased in people with HIV (PWH) and is characterized by premature noncalcified coronary plaque. In the Randomized Trial to Prevent Vascular Events in HIV (REPRIEVE), pitavastatin reduced major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 35% over a median of 5.1 years. Objective To investigate the effects of pitavastatin on noncalcified coronary artery plaque by coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) and on inflammatory biomarkers as potential mechanisms for MACE prevention. Design, Setting, and Participants This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial enrolled participants from April 2015 to February 2018 at 31 US clinical research sites. PWH without known CVD who were taking antiretroviral therapy and had low to moderate 10-year CVD risk were included. Data were analyzed from April to November 2023. Intervention Oral pitavastatin calcium, 4 mg per day. Main Outcomes and Measures Coronary CTA and inflammatory biomarkers at baseline and 24 months. The primary outcomes were change in noncalcified coronary plaque volume and progression of noncalcified plaque. Results Of 804 enrolled persons, 774 had at least 1 evaluable CTA. Plaque changes were assessed in 611 who completed both CT scans. Of 611 analyzed participants, 513 (84.0%) were male, the mean (SD) age was 51 (6) years, and the median (IQR) 10-year CVD risk was 4.5% (2.6-7.0). A total of 302 were included in the pitavastatin arm and 309 in the placebo arm. The mean noncalcified plaque volume decreased with pitavastatin compared with placebo (mean [SD] change, -1.7 [25.2] mm3 vs 2.6 [27.1] mm3; baseline adjusted difference, -4.3 mm3; 95% CI, -8.6 to -0.1; P = .04; 7% [95% CI, 1-12] greater reduction relative to placebo). A larger effect size was seen among the subgroup with plaque at baseline (-8.8 mm3 [95% CI, -17.9 to 0.4]). Progression of noncalcified plaque was 33% less likely with pitavastatin compared with placebo (relative risk, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.52-0.88; P = .003). Compared with placebo, the mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased with pitavastatin (mean change: pitavastatin, -28.5 mg/dL; 95% CI, -31.9 to -25.1; placebo, -0.8; 95% CI, -3.8 to 2.2). The pitavastatin arm had a reduction in both oxidized low-density lipoprotein (-29% [95% CI, -32 to -26] vs -13% [95% CI, -17 to -9]; P < .001) and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (-7% [95% CI, -11 to -4] vs 14% [95% CI, 10-18]; P < .001) compared with placebo at 24 months. Conclusions and Relevance In PWH at low to moderate CVD risk, 24 months of pitavastatin reduced noncalcified plaque volume and progression as well as markers of lipid oxidation and arterial inflammation. These changes may contribute to the observed MACE reduction in REPRIEVE. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02344290.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael T. Lu
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Heather Ribaudo
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Borek Foldyna
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Markella V. Zanni
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Thomas Mayrhofer
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
- School of Business Studies, Stralsund University of Applied Sciences, Stralsund, Germany
| | - Julia Karady
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Group, Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Jana Taron
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
- Department of Radiology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Kathleen V. Fitch
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Sara McCallum
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Tricia H. Burdo
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Inflammation, Center for NeuroVirology and Gene Editing, Temple University Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Kayla Paradis
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Sandeep S. Hedgire
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Nandini M. Meyersohn
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | | | | | - Audra Sturniolo
- Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | - Marissa Diggs
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| | | | - Gerald S. Bloomfield
- Department of Medicine, Duke Global Health Institute, Duke Clinical Research Institute, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Beverly Alston-Smith
- Division of AIDS, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Patrice Desvigne-Nickens
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Edgar T. Overton
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham
- ViiV Healthcare, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - Judith S. Currier
- Division of Infectious Diseases, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Judith A. Aberg
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Carl J. Fichtenbaum
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | | | - Pamela S. Douglas
- Duke University Research Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Steven K. Grinspoon
- Metabolism Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Howden N, Branch K, Douglas P, Gray M, Budoff M, Dewey M, Newby DE, Nicholls SJ, Blankstein R, Fathieh S, Grieve SM, Figtree GA. Computed tomographic angiography measures of coronary plaque in clinical trials: opportunities and considerations to accelerate drug translation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1359500. [PMID: 38500753 PMCID: PMC10945423 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1359500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD) is the causal pathological process driving most major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) worldwide. The complex development of atherosclerosis manifests as intimal plaque which occurs in the presence or absence of traditional risk factors. There are numerous effective medications for modifying CAD but new pharmacologic therapies require increasingly large and expensive cardiovascular outcome trials to assess their potential impact on MACE and to obtain regulatory approval. For many disease areas, nearly a half of drugs are approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration based on beneficial effects on surrogate endpoints. For cardiovascular disease, only low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and blood pressure are approved as surrogates for cardiovascular disease. Valid surrogates of CAD are urgently needed to facilitate robust evaluation of novel, beneficial treatments and inspire investment. Fortunately, advances in non-invasive imaging offer new opportunity for accelerating CAD drug development. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is the most advanced candidate, with the ability to measure accurately and reproducibly characterize the underlying causal disease itself. Indeed, favourable changes in plaque burden have been shown to be associated with improved outcomes, and CCTA may have a unique role as an effective surrogate endpoint for therapies that are designed to improve CAD outcomes. CCTA also has the potential to de-risk clinical endpoint-based trials both financially and by enrichment of participants at higher likelihood of MACE. Furthermore, total non-calcified, and high-risk plaque volume, and their change over time, provide a causally linked measure of coronary artery disease which is inextricably linked to MACE, and represents a robust surrogate imaging biomarker with potential to be endorsed by regulatory authorities. Global consensus on specific imaging endpoints and protocols for optimal clinical trial design is essential as we work towards a rigorous, sustainable and staged pathway for new CAD therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N. Howden
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
- Department of Cardiology, Gosford Hospital, Gosford, NSW, Australia
| | - K. Branch
- Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - P. Douglas
- Duke Department of Medicine, The Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - M. Gray
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - M. Budoff
- Department of Cardiology, Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - M. Dewey
- Department of Radiology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Campus Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
| | - D. E. Newby
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - S. J. Nicholls
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - R. Blankstein
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Division), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - S. Fathieh
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - S. M. Grieve
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - G. A. Figtree
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
McQueen P, Molina D, Pinos I, Krug S, Taylor AJ, LaFrano MR, Kane MA, Amengual J. Finasteride delays atherosclerosis progression in mice and is associated with a reduction in plasma cholesterol in men. J Lipid Res 2024; 65:100507. [PMID: 38272355 PMCID: PMC10899056 DOI: 10.1016/j.jlr.2024.100507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Finasteride is commonly prescribed to treat benign prostate hyperplasia and male-pattern baldness in cis men and, more recently, trans individuals. However, the effect of finasteride on cardiovascular disease remains elusive. We evaluated the role of finasteride on atherosclerosis using low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor-deficient (Ldlr-/-) mice. Next, we examined the relevance to humans by analyzing the data deposited between 2009 and 2016 in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. We show that finasteride reduces total plasma cholesterol and delays the development of atherosclerosis in Ldlr-/- mice. Finasteride reduced monocytosis, monocyte recruitment to the lesion, macrophage lesion content, and necrotic core area, the latter of which is an indicator of plaque vulnerability in humans. RNA sequencing analysis revealed a downregulation of inflammatory pathways and an upregulation of bile acid metabolism, oxidative phosphorylation, and cholesterol pathways in the liver of mice taking finasteride. Men reporting the use of finasteride showed lower plasma levels of cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol than those not taking the drug. Our data unveil finasteride as a potential treatment to delay cardiovascular disease in people by improving the plasma lipid profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick McQueen
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Donald Molina
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Ivan Pinos
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Samuel Krug
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Anna J Taylor
- Carver Metabolomics Core, Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Michael R LaFrano
- Carver Metabolomics Core, Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Maureen A Kane
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jaume Amengual
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Handelsman DJ, Wittert G. Testosterone and Depression Symptoms in Ageing Men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024:dgae093. [PMID: 38366772 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgae093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord Hospital NSW 2139 Australia
| | - Gary Wittert
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, and University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kusters CDJ, Paul KC, Lu AT, Ferruci L, Ritz BR, Binder AM, Horvath S. Higher testosterone and testosterone/estradiol ratio in men are associated with decreased Pheno-/GrimAge and DNA-methylation based PAI1. GeroScience 2024; 46:1053-1069. [PMID: 37369886 PMCID: PMC10828310 DOI: 10.1007/s11357-023-00832-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones are hypothesized to drive sex-specific health disparities. Here, we study the association between sex steroid hormones and DNA methylation-based (DNAm) biomarkers of age and mortality risk including Pheno Age Acceleration (AA), Grim AA, and DNAm-based estimators of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 (PAI1), and leptin concentrations. We pooled data from three population-based cohorts, the Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort, the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, and the InCHIANTI Study, including 1,062 postmenopausal women without hormone therapy and 1,612 men of European descent. Sex-stratified analyses using a linear mixed regression were performed, with a Benjamini-Hochberg (BH) adjustment for multiple testing. Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) was associated with a decrease in DNAm PAI1 among men (per 1 standard deviation (SD): -478 pg/mL; 95%CI: -614 to -343; P:1e-11; BH-P: 1e-10), and women (-434 pg/mL; 95%CI: -589 to -279; P:1e-7; BH-P:2e-6). The testosterone/estradiol (TE) ratio was associated with a decrease in Pheno AA (-0.41 years; 95%CI: -0.70 to -0.12; P:0.01; BH-P: 0.04), and DNAm PAI1 (-351 pg/mL; 95%CI: -486 to -217; P:4e-7; BH-P:3e-6) among men. In men, testosterone was associated with a decrease in DNAm PAI1 (-481 pg/mL; 95%CI: -613 to -349; P:2e-12; BH-P:6e-11). SHBG was associated with lower DNAm PAI1 among men and women. Higher testosterone and testosterone/estradiol ratio were associated with lower DNAm PAI and a younger epigenetic age in men. A decrease in DNAm PAI1 is associated with lower mortality and morbidity risk indicating a potential protective effect of testosterone on lifespan and conceivably cardiovascular health via DNAm PAI1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia D J Kusters
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health at UCLA, Box 708822, 650 Charles E. Young Drive South, CA, 90095-7088, Los Angeles, USA.
| | - Kimberly C Paul
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ake T Lu
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Altos Labs, San Diego, USA
| | - Luigi Ferruci
- Longitudinal Studies Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute On Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Beate R Ritz
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alexandra M Binder
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Population Sciences in the Pacific Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Steve Horvath
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Altos Labs, San Diego, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lee HS, Han SH, Swerdloff R, Pak Y, Budoff M, Wang C. The Effect of Testosterone Replacement Therapy on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Older Hypogonadal Men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e757-e764. [PMID: 37656011 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Male hypogonadism is associated with visceral obesity and the metabolic syndrome: factors important for the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The Testosterone Trials (The T Trials) showed testosterone (T) treatment compared with placebo in older hypogonadal men was associated with decreases in cholesterol and insulin levels suggesting that T treatment may improve NAFLD. OBJECTIVE Compare effects of T vs placebo treatment on NAFLD scores and liver scans in elderly hypogonadal men. METHODS Secondary data analyses from 479 older hypogonadal men with total T < 275 ng/dL from The T Trials were performed. Three clinical liver fat scores-lipid accumulation product index, hepatic steatosis index, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-metabolic syndrome score-and liver computed tomography (CT) Hounsfield units and liver to spleen ratio were evaluated at baseline and 12 months after treatment. RESULTS There were no statistically significant differences of change in lipid accumulation product index (P = .98), hepatic steatosis index (P = .67), and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-metabolic syndrome (P = .52) in 246 men treated with T compared with 233 treated with placebo for 12 months. Liver CT showed no statistically significant difference of change in Hounsfield units (P = .24; n = 71 for T, n = 69 for placebo) and liver to spleen ratio (P = .74; n = 55 for T, n = 62 for placebo) between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS Our study did not show improvement of NAFLD in older hypogonadal men after 12 months of T vs placebo treatment, as assessed by 3 clinical scores and liver CT for hepatic steatosis. Future studies with longer treatment duration and additional NAFLD diagnostic modalities as primary outcome are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae Seung Lee
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Sang Hun Han
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Ronald Swerdloff
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Youngju Pak
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- The Clinical and Translational Research Center, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Matthew Budoff
- Division of Cardiology, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| | - Christina Wang
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
- The Clinical and Translational Research Center, The Lundquist Institute and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lee H, Hwang EC, Oh CK, Lee S, Yu HS, Lim JS, Kim HW, Walsh T, Kim MH, Jung JH, Dahm P. Testosterone replacement in men with sexual dysfunction. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2024; 1:CD013071. [PMID: 38224135 PMCID: PMC10788910 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd013071.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Clinical practice guidelines recommend testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for men with sexual dysfunction and testosterone deficiency. However, TRT is commonly promoted in men without testosterone deficiency and existing trials often do not clearly report participants' testosterone levels or testosterone-related symptoms. This review assesses the potential benefits and harms of TRT in men presenting with complaints of sexual dysfunction. OBJECTIVES To assess the effects of testosterone replacement therapy compared to placebo or other medical treatments in men with sexual dysfunction. SEARCH METHODS We performed a comprehensive search of CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library), MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the trials registries ClinicalTrials.gov and World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, with no restrictions on language of publication or publication status, up to 29 August 2023. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in men (40 years or over) with sexual dysfunction. We excluded men with primary or secondary hypogonadism. We compared testosterone or testosterone with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDEI5I) to placebo or PDE5I alone. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently screened the literature, assessed the risk of bias, extracted data, and rated the certainty of evidence (CoE) according to GRADE using a minimally contextualized approach. We performed statistical analyses using a random-effects model and interpreted them according to standard Cochrane methodology. Predefined primary outcomes were self-reported erectile dysfunction assessed by a validated instrument, sexual quality of life assessed by a validated instrument, and cardiovascular mortality. Secondary outcomes were treatment withdrawal due to adverse events, prostate-related events, and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). We distinguished between short-term (up to 12 months) and long-term (> 12 months) outcomes. MAIN RESULTS We identified 43 studies with 11,419 randomized participants across three comparisons: testosterone versus placebo, testosterone versus PDE5I, and testosterone with PDE5I versus PDE5I alone. This abstract focuses on the most relevant comparison of testosterone versus placebo. Testosterone versus placebo (up to 12 months) Based on a predefined sensitivity analysis of studies at low risk of bias, and an analysis combing data from the similar International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) and IIEF-5 instruments, TRT likely results in little to no difference in erectile function assessed with the IIEF-EF (mean difference (MD) 2.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.67 to 3.08; I² = 0%; 6 RCTs, 2016 participants; moderate CoE) on a scale from 6 to 30 with larger values reflecting better erectile function. We assumed a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of greater than or equal to 4. TRT likely results in little to no change in sexual quality of life assessed with the Aging Males' Symptoms scale (MD -2.31, 95% CI -3.63 to -1.00; I² = 0%; 5 RCTs, 1030 participants; moderate CoE) on a scale from 17 to 85 with larger values reflecting worse sexual quality of life. We assumed a MCID of greater than or equal to 10. TRT also likely results in little to no difference in cardiovascular mortality (risk ratio (RR) 0.83, 95% CI 0.21 to 3.26; I² = 0%; 10 RCTs, 3525 participants; moderate CoE). Based on two cardiovascular deaths in the placebo group and an assumed MCID of 3%, this would correspond to no additional deaths per 1000 men (95% CI 1 fewer to 4 more). TRT also likely results in little to no difference in treatment withdrawal due to adverse events, prostate-related events, or LUTS. Testosterone versus placebo (later than 12 months) We are very uncertain about the longer-term effects of TRT on erectile dysfunction assessed with the IIEF-EF (MD 4.20, 95% CI -2.03 to 10.43; 1 study, 42 participants; very low CoE). We did not find studies reporting on sexual quality of life or cardiovascular mortality. We are very uncertain about the effect of testosterone on treatment withdrawal due to adverse events. We found no studies reporting on prostate-related events or LUTS. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS In the short term, TRT probably has little to no effect on erectile function, sexual quality of life, or cardiovascular mortality compared to a placebo. It likely results in little to no difference in treatment withdrawals due to adverse events, prostate-related events, or LUTS. In the long term, we are very uncertain about the effects of TRT on erectile function when compared to placebo; we did not find data on its effects on sexual quality of life or cardiovascular mortality. The certainty of evidence ranged from moderate (signaling that we are confident that the reported effect size is likely to be close to the true effect) to very low (indicating that the true effect is likely to be substantially different). The findings of this review should help to inform future guidelines and clinical decision-making at the point of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hunju Lee
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea, South
| | - Eu Chang Hwang
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Korea, South
- Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea, South
| | - Cheol Kyu Oh
- Department of Urology, Heaundae Paik Hospital, Inje University, Busan, Korea, South
| | - Solam Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea, South
| | - Ho Song Yu
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea, South
| | - Jung Soo Lim
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea, South
| | - Hong Wook Kim
- Department of Urology, Konyang University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea, South
| | - Thomas Walsh
- Immunocompromised Host Section, Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Myung Ha Kim
- Yonsei Wonju Medical Library, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea, South
| | - Jae Hung Jung
- Center of Evidence-Based Medicine, Institute of Convergence Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea, South
- Department of Urology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea, South
- Department of Precision Medicine, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju, Korea, South
| | - Philipp Dahm
- Department of Urology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
- Urology Section, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Handelsman DJ, Grossmann M, Yeap BB, Stuckey BGA, Shankara-Narayana N, Conway AJ, Inder WJ, McLachlan RI, Allan C, Jenkins AJ, Jesudason D, Bracken K, Wittert GA. Long-term Outcomes of Testosterone Treatment in Men: A T4DM Postrandomization Observational Follow-up Study. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 109:e25-e31. [PMID: 37623257 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT The T4DM study randomized 1007 men with impaired glucose tolerance or newly diagnosed diabetes to testosterone undecanoate (TU, 1000 mg) or matching placebo (P) injections every 12 weeks for 24 months with a lifestyle program with testosterone (T) treatment reducing diabetes diagnosis by 40%. BACKGROUND The long-term effects on new diagnosis of diabetes, cardiovascular and prostate disease, sleep apnea, weight maintenance trajectory and androgen dependence were not yet described. METHODS A follow-up email survey after a median of 5.1 years since last injection obtained 599 (59%) completed surveys (316 T, 283 P), with participants in the follow-up survey compared with nonparticipants in 23 anthropometric and demographic variables. RESULTS Randomization to was TU associated with stronger belief in study benefits during (64% vs 49%, P < .001) but not after the study (44% vs 40%, P = .07); there is high interest in future studies. At T4DM entry, 25% had sleep apnea with a new diagnosis more frequent on TU (3.0% vs 0.4%, P = .03) during, but not after, the study. Poststudy, resuming prescribed T treatment was more frequent among TU-treated men (6% vs 2.8%, P = .03). Five years after cessation of TU treatment there was no difference in self-reported rates of new diagnosis of diabetes, and prostate or cardiovascular disease, nor change in weight maintenance or weight loss behaviors. CONCLUSION We conclude that randomized T treatment for 24 months in men with impaired glucose tolerance or new diabetes but without pathological hypogonadism was associated with higher levels of self-reported benefits and diagnosis of sleep apnea during, but not after, the study as well as more frequent prescribed poststudy T treatment consistent with androgen dependence in some men receiving prolonged injectable TU.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney and Department of Andrology, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine Austin Health, The University of Melbourne and Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Bu B Yeap
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Bronwyn G A Stuckey
- Keogh Institute for Medical Research, and Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Medical School, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Nandini Shankara-Narayana
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney and Department of Andrology, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Ann J Conway
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney and Department of Andrology, Concord Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Warrick J Inder
- Department of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Princess Alexandra Hospital, and PA-Southside Clinical Unit, Medical School, the University of Queensland, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Robert I McLachlan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Carolyn Allan
- Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Alicia J Jenkins
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - David Jesudason
- Department of Endocrinology, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Adelaide, SA 5011, Australia
| | - Karen Bracken
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2064, Australia
| | - Gary A Wittert
- Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 506, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Murali S, Smith ER, Tiong MK, Tan S, Toussaint ND. Interventions to Attenuate Cardiovascular Calcification Progression: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e031676. [PMID: 38014685 PMCID: PMC10727339 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.031676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiovascular calcification, characterized by deposition of calcium phosphate in the arterial wall and heart valves, is associated with cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and is commonly seen in aging, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Whether evidence-based interventions could significantly attenuate cardiovascular calcification progression remains uncertain. METHODS AND RESULTS We conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials involving interventions, compared with placebo, another comparator, or standard of care, to attenuate cardiovascular calcification. Included clinical trials involved participants without chronic kidney disease, and the outcome was cardiovascular calcification measured using radiological methods. Quality of evidence was determined by the Cochrane risk of bias and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations assessment. Forty-nine randomized controlled trials involving 9901 participants (median participants 104, median duration 12 months) were eligible for inclusion. Trials involving aged garlic extract (n=6 studies) consistently showed attenuation of cardiovascular calcification. Trials involving 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (n=14), other lipid-lowering agents (n=2), hormone replacement therapies (n=3), vitamin K (n=5), lifestyle measures (n=4), and omega-3 fatty acids (n=2) consistently showed no attenuation of cardiovascular calcification with these therapies. Trials involving antiresorptive (n=2), antihypertensive (n=2), antithrombotic (n=4), and hypoglycemic agents (n=3) showed mixed results. Singleton studies involving salsalate, folate with vitamin B6 and 12, and dalcetrapib showed no attenuation of cardiovascular calcification. Overall, Cochrane risk of bias was moderate, and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations assessment for a majority of analyses was moderate certainty of evidence. CONCLUSIONS Currently, there are insufficient or conflicting data for interventions evaluated in clinical trials for mitigation of cardiovascular calcification. Therapy involving aged garlic extract appears most promising, but evaluable studies were small and of short duration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Murali
- Department of NephrologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Edward R. Smith
- Department of NephrologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medicine (RMH)University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Mark K. Tiong
- Department of NephrologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medicine (RMH)University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Sven‐Jean Tan
- Department of NephrologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medicine (RMH)University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Nigel D. Toussaint
- Department of NephrologyThe Royal Melbourne HospitalParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Medicine (RMH)University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kanakis GA, Pofi R, Goulis DG, Isidori AM, Armeni E, Erel CT, Fistonić I, Hillard T, Hirschberg AL, Meczekalski B, Mendoza N, Mueck AO, Simoncini T, Stute P, van Dijken D, Rees M, Lambrinoudaki I. EMAS position statement: Testosterone replacement therapy in older men. Maturitas 2023; 178:107854. [PMID: 37845136 DOI: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2023.107854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Late-onset hypogonadism is the clinical entity characterised by low testosterone concentrations associated with clinical symptoms in the absence of organic disease in ageing men. It has been associated with metabolic syndrome, reduced bone mineral density, and increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality risk. Although testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) reverses most of these conditions in young hypogonadal men, the risk/benefit ratio of TRT in older men is debatable. AIM To update the 2015 EMAS statement on TRT in older men with new research on late-onset hypogonadism and TRT. MATERIALS AND METHODS Literature review and consensus of expert opinion. SUMMARY RECOMMENDATIONS TRT should be offered only to symptomatic older men with confirmed low testosterone concentrations after explaining the uncertainties regarding the long-term safety of this treatment. TRT may be offered to men with severe hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction to improve sexual desire, erectile, and orgasmic function. It should also be considered in hypogonadal men with severe insulin resistance or pre-diabetes mellitus. TRT may also be considered, in combination with proven treatment strategies, for osteoporosis, or for selected patients with persistent mild depressive symptoms and/or low self-perceived quality of life, combined with standard medical care for each condition. TRT is contraindicated in hypogonadal men actively seeking fertility treatment. Due to a lack of data, TRT should not be routinely used in older men to improve exercise capacity/physical function, improve cognitive function, or prevent cognitive decline. TRT must be avoided in older, frail men with known breast cancer or untreated prostate cancer and all men who have had myocardial infarction or stroke within the last four months, and those with severe or decompensated heart failure. The quality of evidence regarding patients with previous prostate cancer or cardiovascular disease is too low to draw definitive conclusions. Any limits on duration of use are arbitrary, and treatment should continue for as long as the man feels the benefits outweigh the risks for him, and decisions must be made on an individual basis. Withdrawal should be considered when hypogonadism is reversed after the resolution of underlying disorder. Short-acting transdermal preparations should be preferred for TRT initiation in older men, but injectable forms may be considered subsequently. Older men on TRT should be monitored at 3, 6, and 12 months after initiation and at least yearly thereafter, or earlier and more frequently if indicated. Evaluation should include assessment of the clinical response, and measurement of total testosterone, haematocrit, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentrations. Bone density and/or quality should also be assessed. Obese and overweight patients should be encouraged to undergo lifestyle modifications, including exercise and weight loss, to increase endogenous testosterone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- George A Kanakis
- Department of Endocrinology & IVF Unit, Athens Naval and Veteran Affairs Hospital, Athens, Greece.
| | - Riccardo Pofi
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford OX3 7LE, UK
| | - Dimitrios G Goulis
- Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Eleni Armeni
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece; Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - C Tamer Erel
- İstanbul-Cerrahpaşa University, Cerrahpaşa School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Ivan Fistonić
- Faculty for Health Studies, University of Rijeka, Rijeka, Croatia
| | - Timothy Hillard
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University Hospitals Dorset, Poole, UK
| | - Angelica-Lindén Hirschberg
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Blazej Meczekalski
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Nicolás Mendoza
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Granada, Spain
| | - Alfred O Mueck
- Department of Women's Health, University Hospital Tuebingen, Germany; Beijing OB/GYN Hospital, Capital Medical University, China
| | - Tommaso Simoncini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Via Roma, 67, 56100 Pisa, Italy
| | - Petra Stute
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Clinic Inselspital, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Dorenda van Dijken
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, OLVG Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Margaret Rees
- Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Irene Lambrinoudaki
- Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Chen JY, Ardissino M, Reddy RK, Mason AM, Raisi‐Estabragh Z, Di Angelantonio E, Burgess S, Ng FS. Genetically predicted androgenic profiles and adverse cardiac markers: a sex-specific Mendelian randomization study. ESC Heart Fail 2023; 10:3525-3537. [PMID: 37736873 PMCID: PMC10682908 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Observational evidence suggests associations between sex hormone levels and heart failure (HF). We used sex-specific genetic variants associated with androgenic sex hormone profiles to investigate the causal relevance of androgenic sex hormone profiles on cardiac structure and function and HF using Mendelian randomization (MR). METHODS AND RESULTS Sex-specific uncorrelated genome-wide significant (P < 5 × 10-8 ) variants predicting sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone, and bioavailable testosterone were extracted from summary statistics of genome-wide association study (GWAS) on 425 097 participants in the UK Biobank. Sex-specific gene-outcome association estimates were computed for left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes (LVEDV and LVESV, respectively), left ventricular stroke volume (LVSV), cardiac index, and cardiac output in 11 528 female and 14 356 male UK Biobank Imaging Study participants and for incident or prevalent HF in an external cohort of 47 309 cases and 930 014 controls. Inverse-variance weighted MR was the primary analysis method. In females, higher genetically predicted bioavailable testosterone was associated with lower LVEDV [β per nmol/L = -0.11 (-0.19 to -0.03), P = 0.006], lower LVESV [β = -0.09 (-0.17 to -0.01), P = 0.022], lower LVSV [β = -0.11 (-0.18 to -0.03), P = 0.005], lower cardiac output [β = -0.08 (-0.16 to 0.00), P = 0.046], and lower cardiac index [β = -0.08 (-0.16 to -0.01), P = 0.034] and a higher risk of HF [odds ratio 1.10 (1.01-1.19), P = 0.026] on external validation analysis in larger scale, sex-adjusted GWAS data. Higher genetically predicted SHBG was associated with higher LVEDV [β per nmol/L = 0.17 (0.08-0.25), P = 2 × 10-4 ], higher LVESV [β = 0.13 (0.05-0.22), P = 0.003], and higher LVSV [β = 0.18 (0.08-0.28), P = 2 × 10-4 ]. In males, higher genetically predicted total and bioavailable testosterone was associated with lower LVESV [β = -0.07 (-0.12 to -0.02), P = 0.007] and LVEF [β = -0.11 (-0.18 to -0.04), P = 0.003], respectively. CONCLUSIONS This study supports a causal effect of pro-androgenic sex hormone profiles in females on adverse markers of left ventricular structure and function typically associated with HF with preserved ejection fraction and with HF. There was weaker evidence of association in males.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Yu Chen
- National Heart and Lung InstituteImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Maddalena Ardissino
- National Heart and Lung InstituteImperial College LondonLondonUK
- British Heart Foundation Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary CareUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Rohin K. Reddy
- National Heart and Lung InstituteImperial College LondonLondonUK
| | - Amy Marie Mason
- British Heart Foundation Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary CareUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Heart and Lung Research InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Zahra Raisi‐Estabragh
- William Harvey Research Institute, NIHR Barts Biomedical Research CentreQueen Mary University of LondonLondonUK
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew's HospitalBarts Health NHS TrustLondonUK
| | - Emanuele Di Angelantonio
- British Heart Foundation Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary CareUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Heart and Lung Research InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research Blood and Transplant Research Unit in Donor Health and BehaviourUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- British Heart Foundation Centre of Research ExcellenceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Health Data Research UK CambridgeWellcome Genome Campus and University of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Health Data Science Research CentreHuman TechnopoleMilanItaly
| | - Stephen Burgess
- British Heart Foundation Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary CareUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Heart and Lung Research InstituteUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Medical Research Council Biostatistics UnitUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Fu Siong Ng
- National Heart and Lung InstituteImperial College LondonLondonUK
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Greco EA. Testosterone replacement therapy in older hypogonadal men: a focus on cardiovascular safety from the TRAVERSE study. Minerva Med 2023; 114:770-772. [PMID: 37947784 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4806.23.09036-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
|
34
|
Budoff MJ. Testosterone Repletement: Is it the TRAVERSE Trial or a Travesty? JACC. ADVANCES 2023; 2:100742. [PMID: 38938483 PMCID: PMC11198716 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2023.100742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J. Budoff
- Lundquist Institute at Harbor-UCLA, CDCRC, Torrance, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Nguyen Hoai B, Hoang L, Nguyen Cao T, Pham Minh Q, A Jannini E. Testosterone and aging male, a perspective from a developing country. Aging Male 2023; 26:2223712. [PMID: 37335039 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2023.2223712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Hypogonadism is associated with a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms that can affect the overall health of men. However, in a developing country, there are several imposing challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism, including a lack of awareness and understanding of the condition among healthcare providers and patients, limited resources and the high cost of treatment. This review aimed to examine the potential benefits and risks of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and provides a perspective of a developing country on the topic. MATERIALS AND METHODS A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather relevant information on the impact of testosterone deficiency on ageing males and the effectiveness of TRT for treating hypogonadism. Published peer-reviewed articles were analyzed to evaluate the benefits and risks of TRT. Additionally, the unique challenges faced in the diagnosis and treatment of hypogonadism in a developing country were considered. RESULTS Testosterone replacement therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for hypogonadism, particularly in symptomatic men with low testosterone levels. It offers potential benefits such as improvements in symptoms and overall quality of life. However, there are associated risks and side effects that need to be considered. In a developing country, challenges such as limited awareness and understanding of hypogonadism, resource constraints, and high treatment costs pose additional barriers to accessing TRT and comprehensive care. CONCLUSION In conclusion, TRT holds promise as a treatment for hypogonadism, but its implementation and accessibility face significant challenges in a developing country. Addressing these challenges, including raising awareness, allocating resources, and finding cost-effective solutions, is crucial for ensuring that men with hypogonadism in such settings receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Further research and efforts are needed to improve the management of hypogonadism in developing countries and optimize the potential benefits of TRT for affected individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bac Nguyen Hoai
- Department of Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Hanoi Medical University's Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Long Hoang
- Department of Urology, Hanoi Medical University's Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thang Nguyen Cao
- Department of Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Hanoi Medical University's Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Quan Pham Minh
- Department of Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Hanoi Medical University's Hospital, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Emmanuele A Jannini
- Chair of Endocrinology and Sexual Medicine (ENDOSEX), University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Ohlsson C, Nethander M, Norlén AK, Poutanen M, Gudmundsson EF, Aspelund T, Sigurdsson S, Ryberg H, Gudnason V, Tivesten Å. Serum DHEA and Testosterone Levels Associate Inversely With Coronary Artery Calcification in Elderly Men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:3272-3279. [PMID: 37391895 PMCID: PMC10655543 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Epidemiological and preclinical data support cardiovascular, mainly protective, effects of sex steroids in men, but the mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular actions of sex steroids are poorly understood. Vascular calcification parallels the development of atherosclerosis, but is increasingly recognized as a diversified, highly regulated process, which itself may have pathophysiological importance for clinical cardiovascular events. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between serum sex steroids and coronary artery calcification (CAC) in elderly men. METHODS We used gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to analyze a comprehensive sex steroid profile, including levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione, estrone, testosterone, estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone, in men from the population-based AGES-Reykjavik study (n = 1287, mean 76 years). Further, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was assayed and bioavailable hormone levels calculated. CAC score was determined by computed tomography. The main outcome measures were cross-sectional associations between dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, estrone, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol and quintiles of CAC. RESULTS Serum levels of DHEA, androstenedione, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and bioavailable testosterone showed significant inverse associations with CAC, while estrone, estradiol, bioavailable estradiol, and SHBG did not. DHEA, testosterone, and bioavailable testosterone remained associated with CAC after adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. In addition, our results support partially independent associations between adrenal-derived DHEA and testes-derived testosterone and CAC. CONCLUSION Serum levels of DHEA and testosterone are inversely associated with CAC in elderly men, partially independently from each other. These results raise the question whether androgens from both the adrenals and the testes may contribute to male cardiovascular health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claes Ohlsson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Osteoporosis Centre, Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Drug Treatment, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Nethander
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Osteoporosis Centre, Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Bioinformatics and Data Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna-Karin Norlén
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Osteoporosis Centre, Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | | | - Thor Aspelund
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Henrik Ryberg
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Vilmundur Gudnason
- Icelandic Heart Association, 201 Kopavogur, Iceland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Åsa Tivesten
- Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Trumble BC, Negrey J, Koebele SV, Thompson RC, Samuel Wann L, Allam AH, Beheim B, Linda Sutherland M, Sutherland JD, Eid Rodriguez D, Michalik DE, Rowan CJ, Lombardi GP, Garcia AR, Cummings DK, Seabright E, Alami S, Kraft TS, Hooper P, Buetow K, Irimia A, Gatz M, Stieglitz J, Gurven MD, Kaplan H, Thomas GS. Testosterone is positively associated with coronary artery calcium in a low cardiovascular disease risk population. Evol Med Public Health 2023; 11:472-484. [PMID: 38145005 PMCID: PMC10746324 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoad039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background In industrialized populations, low male testosterone is associated with higher rates of cardiovascular mortality. However, coronary risk factors like obesity impact both testosterone and cardiovascular outcomes. Here, we assess the role of endogenous testosterone on coronary artery calcium in an active subsistence population with relatively low testosterone levels, low cardiovascular risk and low coronary artery calcium scores. Methodology In this cross-sectional community-based study, 719 Tsimane forager-horticulturalists in the Bolivian Amazon aged 40+ years underwent computed tomography (49.8% male, mean age 57.6 years). Results Coronary artery calcium levels were low; 84.5% had no coronary artery calcium. Zero-inflated negative binomial models found testosterone was positively associated with coronary artery calcium for the full sample (Incidence Rate Ratio [IRR] = 1.477, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 1.001-2.170, P = 0.031), and in a male-only subset (IRR = 1.532, 95% CI 0.993-2.360, P = 0.053). Testosterone was also positively associated with clinically relevant coronary atherosclerosis (calcium >100 Agatston units) in the full sample (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.984, 95% CI 1.202-3.275, P = 0.007) and when limited to male-only sample (OR = 2.032, 95% CI 1.118-4.816, P = 0.024). Individuals with coronary artery calcium >100 had 20% higher levels of testosterone than those with calcium <100 (t = -3.201, P = 0.007). Conclusions and Implications Among Tsimane, testosterone is positively associated with coronary artery calcium despite generally low normal testosterone levels, minimal atherosclerosis and rare cardiovascular disease (CVD) events. Associations between low testosterone and CVD events in industrialized populations are likely confounded by obesity and other lifestyle factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin C Trumble
- Arizona State University, School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Center for Evolution and Medicine, Institute of Human Origins, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Jacob Negrey
- Arizona State University, School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Center for Evolution and Medicine, Institute of Human Origins, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Stephanie V Koebele
- Arizona State University, School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Center for Evolution and Medicine, Institute of Human Origins, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Randall C Thompson
- Saint Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute, Department of Cardiology, Kansas City, MO, USA
| | - L Samuel Wann
- University of New Mexico, School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Adel H Allam
- Al Azhar University, School of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Bret Beheim
- Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Department of Human Behavior, Ecology and Culture, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | | | | | - David E Michalik
- University of California Irvine, School of Medicine, Irvine, CA, USA
- Miller Women’s and Children’s Hospital Long Beach, CA, USA
| | | | - Guido P Lombardi
- Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Laboratorio de Paleopatología, Lima, Peru
| | - Angela R Garcia
- Arizona State University, School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Center for Evolution and Medicine, Institute of Human Origins, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | | | - Edmond Seabright
- Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, School of Collective Intelligence, Ben Guerir, Morocco
| | - Sarah Alami
- Mohammed VI Polytechnic University, School of Collective Intelligence, Ben Guerir, Morocco
| | - Thomas S Kraft
- University of Utah, Anthropology Department, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Paul Hooper
- Chapman University, Economic Science Institute, Orange, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth Buetow
- Arizona State University, School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Center for Evolution and Medicine, Institute of Human Origins, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Andrei Irimia
- University of Southern California, Psychology Department, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Margaret Gatz
- University of Southern California, Psychology Department, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jonathan Stieglitz
- Toulouse Scool of Economics, Institute for Advanced Study Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Michael D Gurven
- University of California Santa Barbara, Department of Anthropology, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Hillard Kaplan
- Chapman University, Economic Science Institute, Orange, CA, USA
| | - Gregory S Thomas
- MemorialCare Health System, Fountain Valley, CA, USA
- University of California Irvine, Division of Cardiology, Orange, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Anawalt BD. The TRAVERSE trial: cardiovascular safety of testosterone therapy for older men. Lancet Diabetes Endocrinol 2023; 11:714-716. [PMID: 37660720 DOI: 10.1016/s2213-8587(23)00254-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Bradley D Anawalt
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Shawky NM, Reckelhoff JF, Alexander BT, Cardozo LLY. Insights Into the Cardiomodulatory Effects of Sex Hormones: Implications in Transgender Care. Hypertension 2023; 80:1810-1820. [PMID: 37462057 PMCID: PMC10530189 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.123.19501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Transgender individuals that undergo gender-affirming hormone therapy may experience discrimination in the health care setting with a lack of access to medical personnel competent in transgender medicine. Recent evidence suggests that gender-affirming hormone therapy is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and cardiovascular risk factors. A recent statement from the American Heart Association reinforces the importance of cardiovascular-focused clinical management and the necessity for more research into the impact of gender-affirming hormone therapy. With this in mind, this review will highlight the known cardiovascular risk factors associated with gender-affirming hormone therapy and identify potential molecular mechanisms determined from the limited animal studies that explore the role of cross-sex steroids on cardiovascular risk. The lack of data in this understudied population requires future clinical and basic research studies to inform and educate clinicians and their transgender patient population to promote precision medicine for their care to improve their quality of life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noha M. Shawky
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Mississippi Center of Excellence in Perinatal Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Women’s Health Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Cardiovascular Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Jane F. Reckelhoff
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Mississippi Center of Excellence in Perinatal Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Women’s Health Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Cardiovascular Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Barbara T. Alexander
- Department of Physiology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Mississippi Center of Excellence in Perinatal Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Women’s Health Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Cardiovascular Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| | - Licy L. Yanes Cardozo
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Department of Physiology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Mississippi Center of Excellence in Perinatal Research, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Women’s Health Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
- Cardiovascular Renal Research Center, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Conlon DM, Welty FK, Reyes-Soffer G, Amengual J. Sex-Specific Differences in Lipoprotein Production and Clearance. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2023; 43:1617-1625. [PMID: 37409532 PMCID: PMC10527393 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.122.318247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic approaches to reduce atherogenic lipid and lipoprotein levels remain the most effective and assessable strategies to prevent and treat cardiovascular disease. The discovery of novel research targets linked to pathways associated with cardiovascular disease development has enhanced our ability to decrease disease burden; however, residual cardiovascular disease risks remain. Advancements in genetics and personalized medicine are essential to understand some of the factors driving residual risk. Biological sex is among the most relevant factors affecting plasma lipid and lipoprotein profiles, playing a pivotal role in the development of cardiovascular disease. This minireview summarizes the most recent preclinical and clinical studies covering the effect of sex on plasma lipid and lipoprotein levels. We highlight the recent advances in the mechanisms regulating hepatic lipoprotein production and clearance as potential drivers of disease presentation. We focus on using sex as a biological variable in studying circulating lipid and lipoprotein levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gissette Reyes-Soffer
- Department of Medicine, Division of Preventive Medicine and Nutrition, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons
| | - Jaume Amengual
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition and Division of Nutritional Sciences. University of Illinois Urbana Champaign
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Green DJ, Chasland LC, Naylor LH, Yeap BB. New Horizons: Testosterone or Exercise for Cardiometabolic Health in Older Men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:2141-2153. [PMID: 36964918 PMCID: PMC10438896 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
Middle-aged and older men have typically accumulated comorbidities, are increasingly sedentary, and have lower testosterone concentrations (T) compared to younger men. Reduced physical activity (PA) and lower T both are associated with, and may predispose to, metabolically adverse changes in body composition, which contribute to higher risks of cardiometabolic disease. Exercise improves cardiometabolic health, but sustained participation is problematic. By contrast, rates of T prescription have increased, particularly in middle-aged and older men without organic diseases of the hypothalamus, pituitary, or testes, reflecting the unproven concept of a restorative hormone that preserves health. Two recent large randomized trials of T, and meta-analyses of randomized trials, did not show a signal for adverse cardiovascular (CV) events, and T treatment on a background of lifestyle intervention reduced type 2 diabetes by 40% in men at high risk. Men with both higher endogenous T and higher PA levels have lower CV risk, but causality remains unproven. Exercise training interventions improve blood pressure and endothelial function in middle-aged and older men, without comparable benefits or additive effects of T treatment. Therefore, exercise training improves cardiometabolic health in middle-aged and older men when effectively applied as a supervised regimen incorporating aerobic and resistance modalities. Treatment with T may have indirect cardiometabolic benefits, mediated via favorable changes in body composition. Further evaluation of T as a pharmacological intervention to improve cardiometabolic health in aging men could consider longer treatment durations and combination with targeted exercise programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J Green
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Lauren C Chasland
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Allied Health Department, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Louise H Naylor
- School of Human Sciences (Exercise and Sport Science), The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Allied Health Department, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, 6150, Australia
| | - Bu B Yeap
- Medical School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, 6009, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, WA, 6150, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Grossmann M, Jayasena CN, Anawalt BD. Approach to the Patient: The Evaluation and Management of Men ≥50 Years With Low Serum Testosterone Concentration. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:e871-e884. [PMID: 36995891 PMCID: PMC10438885 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Although testosterone replacement in men with classic hypogonadism due to an identified pathology of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis is uncontroversial, the role of testosterone treatment for men with age-related declines in circulating testosterone is unclear. This is due to the lack of large, long-term testosterone therapy trials assessing definitive clinical endpoints. However, men ≥50 years of age, particularly those who have a body mass index >25 kg/m2 and multiple comorbidities, commonly present with clinical features of androgen deficiency and low serum testosterone concentrations. Clinicians are faced with the question whether to initiate testosterone therapy, a difficult dilemma that entails a benefit-risk analysis with limited evidence from clinical trials. Using a case scenario, we present a practical approach to the clinical assessment and management of such men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathis Grossmann
- Department of Medicine (Austin Health), The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3084, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
| | - Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Imperial College London, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Bradley D Anawalt
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Monageng E, Offor U, Takalani NB, Mohlala K, Opuwari CS. A Review on the Impact of Oxidative Stress and Medicinal Plants on Leydig Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1559. [PMID: 37627554 PMCID: PMC10451682 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Leydig cells are essential for steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. An imbalance in the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the cellular antioxidant level brings about oxidative stress. Oxidative stress (OS) results in the dysfunction of Leydig cells, thereby impairing steroidogenesis, spermatogenesis, and ultimately, male infertility. To prevent Leydig cells from oxidative insults, there needs to be a balance between the ROS production and the cellular protective capacity of antioxidants. Evidence indicates that medicinal plants could improve Leydig cell function at specific concentrations under basal or OS conditions. The increased usage of medicinal plants has been considered a possible alternative treatment for male infertility. This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of oxidative stress on Leydig cells as well as the effects of various medicinal plant extracts on TM3 Leydig cells. The medicinal plants of interest include Aspalathus linearis, Camellia sinensis, Moringa oleifera, Morinda officinale, Taraxacum officinale, Trichilia emetica, Terminalia sambesiaca, Peltophorum africanum, Ximenia caffra, Serenoa repens, Zingiber officinale, Eugenia jambolana, and a combination of dandelion and fermented rooibos (CRS-10). According to the findings obtained from studies conducted on the evaluated medicinal plants, it can, therefore, be concluded that the medicinal plants maintain the antioxidant profile of Leydig cells under basal conditions and have protective or restorative effects following exposure to oxidative stress. The available data suggest that the protective role exhibited by the evaluated plants may be attributed to their antioxidant content. Additionally, the use of the optimal dosage or concentration of the extracts in the management of oxidative stress is of the utmost importance, and the measurement of their oxidation reduction potential is recommended.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Monageng
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Ugochukwu Offor
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Ndivhuho Beauty Takalani
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Kutullo Mohlala
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| | - Chinyerum Sylvia Opuwari
- Department of Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Natural Science, University of Western Cape, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Bienstock S, Lin F, Blankstein R, Leipsic J, Cardoso R, Ahmadi A, Gelijns A, Patel K, Baldassarre LA, Hadley M, LaRocca G, Sanz J, Narula J, Chandrashekhar YS, Shaw LJ, Fuster V. Advances in Coronary Computed Tomographic Angiographic Imaging of Atherosclerosis for Risk Stratification and Preventive Care. JACC Cardiovasc Imaging 2023; 16:1099-1115. [PMID: 37178070 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcmg.2023.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The diagnostic evaluation of coronary artery disease is undergoing a dramatic transformation with a new focus on atherosclerotic plaque. This review details the evidence needed for effective risk stratification and targeted preventive care based on recent advances in automated measurement of atherosclerosis from coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). To date, research findings support that automated stenosis measurement is reasonably accurate, but evidence on variability by location, artery size, or image quality is unknown. The evidence for quantification of atherosclerotic plaque is unfolding, with strong concordance reported between coronary CTA and intravascular ultrasound measurement of total plaque volume (r >0.90). Statistical variance is higher for smaller plaque volumes. Limited data are available on how technical or patient-specific factors result in measurement variability by compositional subgroups. Coronary artery dimensions vary by age, sex, heart size, coronary dominance, and race and ethnicity. Accordingly, quantification programs excluding smaller arteries affect accuracy for women, patients with diabetes, and other patient subsets. Evidence is unfolding that quantification of atherosclerotic plaque is useful to enhance risk prediction, yet more evidence is required to define high-risk patients across varied populations and to determine whether such information is incremental to risk factors or currently used coronary computed tomography techniques (eg, coronary artery calcium scoring or visual assessment of plaque burden or stenosis). In summary, there is promise for the utility of coronary CTA quantification of atherosclerosis, especially if it can lead to targeted and more intensive cardiovascular prevention, notably for those patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease and high-risk plaque features. The new quantification techniques available to imagers must not only provide sufficient added value to improve patient care, but also add minimal and reasonable cost to alleviate the financial burden on our patients and the health care system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Bienstock
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Fay Lin
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Ron Blankstein
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jonathon Leipsic
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Rhanderson Cardoso
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amir Ahmadi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Annetine Gelijns
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Krishna Patel
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lauren A Baldassarre
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Michael Hadley
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Gina LaRocca
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Javier Sanz
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jagat Narula
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | | | - Leslee J Shaw
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA; Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA.
| | - Valentin Fuster
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Kusters CDJ, Paul KC, Lu AT, Ferrucci L, Ritz BR, Binder AM, Horvath S. Higher testosterone and testosterone/estradiol ratio in men are associated with better epigenetic estimators of mortality risk. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2023:2023.02.16.23285997. [PMID: 36865294 PMCID: PMC9980235 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.16.23285997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Sex hormones are hypothesized to drive sex-specific health disparities. Here, we study the association between sex steroid hormones and DNA methylation-based (DNAm) biomarkers of age and mortality risk including Pheno Age Acceleration (AA), Grim AA, and DNAm-based estimators of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 (PAI1), and leptin concentrations. Methods We pooled data from three population-based cohorts, the Framingham Heart Study Offspring Cohort (FHS), the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging (BLSA), and the InCHIANTI Study, including 1,062 postmenopausal women without hormone therapy and 1,612 men of European descent. Sex hormone concentrations were standardized with mean 0 and standard deviation of 1, for each study and sex separately. Sex-stratified analyses using a linear mixed regression were performed, with a Benjamini-Hochberg (BH) adjustment for multiple testing. Sensitivity analysis was performed excluding the previously used training-set for the development of Pheno and Grim age. Results Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is associated with a decrease in DNAm PAI1 among men (per 1 standard deviation (SD): -478 pg/mL; 95%CI: -614 to -343; P:1e-11; BH-P: 1e-10), and women (-434 pg/mL; 95%CI: -589 to -279; P:1e-7; BH-P:2e-6). The testosterone/estradiol (TE) ratio was associated with a decrease in Pheno AA (-0.41 years; 95%CI: -0.70 to -0.12; P:0.01; BH-P: 0.04), and DNAm PAI1 (-351 pg/mL; 95%CI: -486 to -217; P:4e-7; BH-P:3e-6) among men. In men, 1 SD increase in total testosterone was associated with a decrease in DNAm PAI1 (-481 pg/mL; 95%CI: -613 to -349; P:2e-12; BH-P:6e-11). Conclusion SHBG was associated with lower DNAm PAI1 among men and women. Higher testosterone and testosterone/estradiol ratio were associated with lower DNAm PAI and a younger epigenetic age in men. A decrease in DNAm PAI1 is associated with lower mortality and morbidity risk indicating a potential protective effect of testosterone on lifespan and conceivably cardiovascular health via DNAm PAI1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia DJ Kusters
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Kimberly C Paul
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ake T Lu
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Altos Labs, San Diego, USA
| | - Luigi Ferrucci
- Longitudinal Studies Section, Translational Gerontology Branch, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Baltimore, USA
| | - Beate R Ritz
- Department of Neurology, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Environmental Health, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alexandra M Binder
- Department of Epidemiology, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Population Sciences in the Pacific Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Steve Horvath
- Department of Human Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Altos Labs, San Diego, USA
- Population Sciences in the Pacific Program, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Fadah K, Gopi G, Lingireddy A, Blumer V, Dewald T, Mentz RJ. Anabolic androgenic steroids and cardiomyopathy: an update. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1214374. [PMID: 37564909 PMCID: PMC10412093 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1214374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) include endogenously produced androgens like testosterone and their synthetic derivatives. Their influence on multiple metabolic pathways across organ systems results in an extensive side effect profile. From creating an atherogenic and prothrombotic milieu to direct myocardial injury, the effects of AAS on the heart may culminate with patients requiring thorough cardiac evaluation and multi-disciplinary medical management related to cardiomyopathy and heart failure (HF). Supraphysiological doses of AAS have been shown to induce cardiomyopathy via biventricular dysfunction. Advancement in imaging including cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and additional diagnostic testing have facilitated the identification of AAS-induced left ventricular dysfunction, but data regarding the impact on right ventricular function remains limited. Emerging studies showed conflicting data regarding the reversibility of AAS-induced cardiomyopathy. There is an unmet need for a systematic long-term outcomes study to empirically evaluate the clinical course of cardiomyopathy and to assess potential targeted therapy as appropriate. In this review, we provide an overview of the epidemiology, pathophysiology and management considerations related to AAS and cardiomyopathy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kahtan Fadah
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Gokul Gopi
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY, United States
| | - Ajay Lingireddy
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, El Paso, TX, United States
| | - Vanessa Blumer
- Department of Cardiovascular, Heart and Vascular Institute, Kaufman Center For Heart Failure, OH, United States
| | - Tracy Dewald
- Department of Cardiovascular, Duke University Medical Center and Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Robert J. Mentz
- Department of Cardiovascular, Duke University Medical Center and Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Cappola AR, Auchus RJ, El-Hajj Fuleihan G, Handelsman DJ, Kalyani RR, McClung M, Stuenkel CA, Thorner MO, Verbalis JG. Hormones and Aging: An Endocrine Society Scientific Statement. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:1835-1874. [PMID: 37326526 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Multiple changes occur across various endocrine systems as an individual ages. The understanding of the factors that cause age-related changes and how they should be managed clinically is evolving. This statement reviews the current state of research in the growth hormone, adrenal, ovarian, testicular, and thyroid axes, as well as in osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, type 2 diabetes, and water metabolism, with a specific focus on older individuals. Each section describes the natural history and observational data in older individuals, available therapies, clinical trial data on efficacy and safety in older individuals, key points, and scientific gaps. The goal of this statement is to inform future research that refines prevention and treatment strategies in age-associated endocrine conditions, with the goal of improving the health of older individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne R Cappola
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Richard J Auchus
- Departments of Pharmacology and Internal Medicine, Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology, and Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Section, Medical Service, LTC Charles S. Kettles Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Ann Arbor, MI 48015, USA
| | - Ghada El-Hajj Fuleihan
- Calcium Metabolism and Osteoporosis Program, WHO Collaborating Center for Metabolic Bone Disorders, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107-2020, Lebanon
| | - David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney and Andrology Department, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney 2139, Australia
| | - Rita R Kalyani
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Michael McClung
- Oregon Osteoporosis Center, Portland, OR 97213, USA
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Cynthia A Stuenkel
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
| | - Michael O Thorner
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903, USA
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joseph G Verbalis
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Zambrano A, Tintut Y, Demer LL, Hsu JJ. Potential mechanisms linking high-volume exercise with coronary artery calcification. Heart 2023; 109:1139-1145. [PMID: 36702539 PMCID: PMC10356745 DOI: 10.1136/heartjnl-2022-321986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have found an association between high volumes of physical activity and increased levels of coronary artery calcification (CAC) among older male endurance athletes, yet the underlying mechanisms have remained largely elusive. Potential mechanisms include greater exposure to inflammatory cytokines, reactive oxygen species and oxidised low-density lipoproteins, as acute strenuous physical activity has been found to enhance their systemic release. Other possibilities include post-exercise elevations in circulating parathyroid hormone, which can modify the amount and morphology of calcific plaque, and long-term exposure to non-laminar blood flow within the coronary arteries during vigorous physical activity, particularly in individuals with pre-existing atherosclerosis. Further, although the association has only been identified in men, the role of testosterone in this process remains unclear. This brief review discusses the association between high-volume endurance exercise and CAC in older men, elaborates on the potential mechanisms underlying the increased calcification, and provides clinical implications and recommendations for those at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Zambrano
- Paul L Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA
| | - Yin Tintut
- Medicine/Cardiology, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Medicine, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Linda L Demer
- Medicine/Cardiology, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Medicine, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Hsu
- Medicine/Cardiology, University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Medicine, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Figueiredo MG, Gagliano-Jucá T, Basaria S. Male Reproduction and Aging. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2023; 52:211-228. [PMID: 36948776 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Recent publications of well-conducted population studies have informed us that the syndromic prevalence of age-related low testosterone, also known as late-onset hypogonadism, is quite low. Several well-conducted trials in middle-aged and older men with age-related decline in testosterone levels have revealed that efficacy of testosterone therapy is modest with improvement in sexual function, mood, volumetric bone density, and anemia. Although select older men might benefit from testosterone therapy, its effect on prostate cancer risk and major adverse cardiovascular events remains unclear. The results of the ongoing TRAVERSE trial will likely provide important insights into these risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Gabriela Figueiredo
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Avenue, BLI 541, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Thiago Gagliano-Jucá
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Avenue, BLI 541, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Northwestern Medicine McHenry Hospital, Chicago Medical School, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, McHenry, IL, USA
| | - Shehzad Basaria
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Avenue, BLI 541, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Kwapong YA, Sharma G, Valero-Elizondo J, Achirica MC, Ali SS, Blaha MJ, Blankstein R, Shapiro MD, Arias L, Budoff MJ, Feldman T, Cury RC, Mehta L, Fialkow J, Nasir K. The association of sex-specific hormones with coronary artery plaque characteristics from Miami Heart (MiHeart) study. Am J Prev Cardiol 2023; 14:100479. [PMID: 36950675 PMCID: PMC10025130 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpc.2023.100479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The association of sex-specific hormones with coronary computed tomography angiography(CCTA)-based plaque characteristics in women without cardiovascular disease is not well understood. We investigated the association of sex-specific hormones with coronary artery plaque characteristics in a contemporary multiracial cohort with no clinical coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods In this cross-sectional analysis, we utilized data from 2,325 individuals with no clinical CAD from the Miami Heart (MiHeart) study. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to investigate the association of sex hormones: sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), free and total testosterone, estradiol, with plaque characteristics among women and men. Results Of the 1,155 women, 34.2% had any plaque and 3.4% had any high-risk plaque features (HRP) while among men (n = 1170), 63.1% had any plaque and 10.4% had HRP. Among women, estradiol and SHBG were associated with lower odds of any plaque after adjusting for age and race-ethnicity (estradiol OR per SD increase: 0.87, 95%CI: 0.76-0.98; SHBG OR per SD increase: 0.82, 95%CI: 0.72-0.93) but the significance did not persist after adjustment of cardiovascular risk factors. High free testosterone was associated with higher odds of HRP (aOR:3.48, 95%CI:1.07-11.26) but null associations for the other sex hormones with HRP, in the context of limited sample size. Among men, there were no significant associations between sex-specific hormones and plaque or HRP. Conclusion Among young to middle-aged women with no clinical CAD, increasing estradiol and SHBG were associated with lower odds of any plaque and higher free testosterone was associated with HRP. Larger cohorts may be needed to validate this.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaa A. Kwapong
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Garima Sharma
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Javier Valero-Elizondo
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Miguel Cainzos Achirica
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Shozab S. Ali
- Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Michael J. Blaha
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ron Blankstein
- Brigham and Women's Hospital Heart and Vascular Center, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Michael D. Shapiro
- Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Section on Cardiovascular Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Lara Arias
- Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Matthew J. Budoff
- Division of Cardiology, Harbor UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- The Lundquist Institute, Harbor UCLA, Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
| | - Theodore Feldman
- Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ricardo C. Cury
- Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
- Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Laxmi Mehta
- Division of Cardiology, the Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jonathan Fialkow
- Miami Cardiac and Vascular Institute, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Khurram Nasir
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist, Houston, TX, USA
- Corresponding author at: Division of Cardiovascular Prevention and Wellness, Department of Cardiology, Houston Methodist DeBakey Heart & Vascular Center, 6550 Fannin St Suite 1801, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|