1
|
Correale M, Pelaggi G, Catanoso MC, Miccichè S, Teresi L, Bonanno S, Bellocchi P, Poleggi C, Capasso R, Barile M, Visco V, Carluccio E, Nodari S, Ciccarelli M, Dattilo G. Vericiguat in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: hope or solid reality? Heart Fail Rev 2024; 29:1135-1143. [PMID: 39044114 DOI: 10.1007/s10741-024-10425-7] [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] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, thanks to the advent of new classes of drugs (ARNI and SGLT2-i), the prognosis of patients suffering from heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) has gradually improved. Nonetheless, there is a residual risk that is not targeted by these therapies. Currently, it is recognized that vericiguat, an oral stimulator of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), can restore the NO-sGC-cGMP pathway, through stimulation and activation of sGC, aiming to increase cGMP levels with a reduction in heart failure-related oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Even though the Victoria trial demonstrated that HFrEF patients in treatment with vericiguat showed a 10% reduction in the composite of cardiovascular mortality and rehospitalization for heart failure, statistically significantly reducing heart failure hospitalization, the international guidelines limit its use as a second-line drug for patients with worsening symptomatology despite optimized medical therapy. Furthermore, vericiguat has proved to be a valid therapeutic ally especially in those patients with comorbidities such that they cannot receive the classic four-pillar therapy of HF (in particular renal failure). In this review, the authors report on randomized clinical trials, substudies, and meta-analysis about vericiguat in HFrEF, emphasizing the strengths that would suggest the possible role of vericiguat as the fifth pillar of the HFrEF treatment, acknowledging that there are still gaps in the evidence that need to be clarified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michele Correale
- Cardiothoracic Department, Policlinico Riuniti University Hospital, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Pelaggi
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Catanoso
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Serena Miccichè
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Lucio Teresi
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Bonanno
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Paolo Bellocchi
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Cristina Poleggi
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Raffaele Capasso
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Massimo Barile
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Valeria Visco
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Via Salvador Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Erberto Carluccio
- Cardiology and Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, S. Maria Della Misericordia Hospital, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Savina Nodari
- Department of Cardiology, University of Brescia and ASST Spedali Civili Di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Michele Ciccarelli
- Cardiovascular Research Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Salerno, Via Salvador Allende, 84081, Baronissi, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Dattilo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, Section of Cardiology, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Imamura T, Kinugawa K. Who Can Receive Clinical Benefit from Mid-Term Vericiguat Add-on Therapy Among Patients with Systolic Heart Failure Receiving Quadruple Medical Therapy? Int Heart J 2024; 65:684-692. [PMID: 39010220 DOI: 10.1536/ihj.24-091] [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: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Vericiguat, a soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator known for augmenting cyclic guanosine monophosphate production, has garnered substantial clinical attention in patients with systolic heart failure. Despite its proven efficacy, discerning the specific subset of individuals who can enjoy clinical advantages from vericiguat therapy in contemporary real-world clinical practice, particularly among the individuals undergoing "quadruple medical therapy" comprising administration of a beta-blocker, angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor, mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, and sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor, remains an unresolved query. This study involved patients undergoing 3-month vericiguat therapy alongside complete quadruple medical therapy in a contemporary real-world clinical practice. Baseline characteristics associated with the primary outcome, defined as a reduction in serum NT pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) levels over the 3-month therapeutic duration, were scrutinized. A cohort of 24 patients (median age: 66 years; 20 males) were included. All participants diligently adhered to the 3-month vericiguat therapy in conjunction with the quadruple medical regimen. A higher baseline systolic blood pressure emerged as an independent factor linked to the primary outcome, yielding an adjusted odds ratio of 1.31 (95% confidence interval: 1.03-1.65, P = 0.026) at a threshold of 105 mmHg. This threshold notably stratified the trajectories of serum NT pro-BNP levels during the 3-month vericiguat therapy. In conclusion, preservation of baseline systolic blood pressure emerged as a pivotal determinant for reaping the clinical benefits from mid-term vericiguat therapy among patients with systolic heart failure receiving quadruple medical therapy.
Collapse
|
3
|
Fritsch A, Meyer M, Blaustein RO, Trujillo ME, Kauh E, Roessig L, Boettcher M, Becker C. Clinical Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Profile of Vericiguat. Clin Pharmacokinet 2024; 63:751-771. [PMID: 38916717 PMCID: PMC11222283 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-024-01384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Vericiguat is an oral soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator and enhances the cyclic guanosine monophosphate pathway independently of nitric oxide as well as synergistically in normal- and low-nitric oxide conditions. This review describes the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profile of vericiguat and summarizes the effect of vericiguat on cardiac electrophysiology and population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationships. Vericiguat demonstrates virtually complete absorption and increased exposure with food. Vericiguat has high oral bioavailability when taken with food (93.0%) with dose-proportional pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers. Vericiguat has slightly less than dose-proportional pharmacokinetics with a slight decrease in bioavailability at higher doses in patients with heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Vericiguat is a low-clearance drug, with a half-life of approximately 20 h in healthy volunteers and 30 h in patients with HFrEF. Most drug metabolism is achieved by glucuronidation. Vericiguat has pharmacodynamic effects as expected from its pharmacological mechanism of action (i.e., relaxation of the smooth muscles in the vasculature leading to changes in hemodynamics). In the VICTORIA trial (NCT02861534), which enrolled patients with HFrEF, no meaningful exposure-response relationships for the incidence of symptomatic hypotension or syncope were evident. There were no significant imbalances in the incidence of undesirable hemodynamic-related effects (symptomatic hypotension and syncope) in subgroups with HFrEF defined by sex, age, race, and renal impairment. In addition, most patients achieved the 10-mg target dose per the blood pressure-guided titration regimen. No dose adjustments due to body weight, age, sex, race, or hepatic/renal impairment are necessary in adult patients with HFrEF. Observed and predicted changes in vericiguat exposure when co-administered with perpetrator drugs were small and not clinically meaningful. In addition, vericiguat has low potential as a perpetrator to affect exposure and/or pharmacodynamic effects of drugs commonly prescribed in patients with heart failure; therefore, no dose adjustment of these drugs is required in patients taking vericiguat. There is limited experience on the combined use of vericiguat with long-acting nitrates in patients with HFrEF. The ongoing VICTOR trial (NCT05093933), which is investigating vericiguat in patients with HFrEF, permits the co-administration of long-acting nitrates. Combined use of vericiguat and phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors has not been studied in patients with HFrEF and is therefore not recommended because of the potential increased risk for symptomatic hypotension. Vericiguat was not associated with electrophysiological abnormalities in preclinical and clinical studies up to the approved dose of 10 mg at steady state. Vericiguat is approved for the treatment of recently decompensated patients with worsening HFrEF. Vericiguat's safety and efficacy profile in patients with HFrEF will be further characterized by the VICTOR trial (NCT05093933) in adults without recent decompensation and in a pediatric population with HF due to left ventricular systolic dysfunction (VALOR trial, NCT05714085).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Achim Fritsch
- Clinical Pharmacology, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dies RM, Jackson CN, Flanagan CJ, Sinnathamby ES, Spillers NJ, Potharaju P, Singh N, Varrassi G, Ahmadzadeh S, Shekoohi S, Kaye AD. The Evolving Role of Vericiguat in Patients With Chronic Heart Failure. Cureus 2023; 15:e49782. [PMID: 38161537 PMCID: PMC10757766 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.49782] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a chronic and progressive clinical disorder characterized by an inability to pump sufficient blood to meet metabolic demands. It poses a substantial global healthcare burden, leading to high morbidity, mortality, and economic impact. Current treatments for HF include lifestyle modifications, guideline-directed medical therapies (GDMT), and device interventions, but the need for novel therapeutic approaches remains significant. The introduction of vericiguat, a soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, has shown promise in improving outcomes for heart failure patients. Vericiguat addresses the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of heart failure by augmenting the cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway, leading to enhanced cardiac contractility and vasodilation. Clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of vericiguat, such as the Vericiguat Global Study in Subjects with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction (VICTORIA) trial, have demonstrated promising results. It has been shown that vericiguat, when added to standard therapy, reduces the risk of HF hospitalization and cardiovascular death in patients with symptomatic chronic HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The addition of vericiguat to the current armamentarium of HF treatments provides clinicians with a novel therapeutic option to further optimize patient outcomes. Its potential benefits extend beyond symptom management, aiming to reduce hospitalizations and mortality rates associated with HF. As with any new treatment, the appropriate patient selection, monitoring, and management of potential adverse effects are essential. Further research is warranted to determine the long-term benefits, optimal dosing strategies, and potential combination therapies involving vericiguat. Its ability to target the cGMP pathway provides a unique mechanism of action, offering potential benefits in improving clinical outcomes for HF patients. Continued investigation and clinical experience will further elucidate the role of vericiguat in the management of HF and its overall impact on reducing the healthcare burden associated with this debilitating condition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ross M Dies
- College of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Corrie N Jackson
- College of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Chelsi J Flanagan
- College of Medicine, University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine, San Antonio, USA
| | - Evan S Sinnathamby
- College of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center New Orleans, New Orleans, USA
| | - Noah J Spillers
- College of Medicine, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Pooja Potharaju
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Naina Singh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | | | - Shahab Ahmadzadeh
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Sahar Shekoohi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| | - Alan D Kaye
- Department of Anesthesiology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nguyen L, Baker DE. Vericiguat. Hosp Pharm 2023; 58:431-436. [PMID: 37711406 PMCID: PMC10498964 DOI: 10.1177/00185787211016338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are available online to subscribers. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service, contact Wolters Kluwer customer service at 866-397-3433.
Collapse
|
6
|
Falco L, Brescia B, Catapano D, Martucci ML, Valente F, Gravino R, Contaldi C, Pacileo G, Masarone D. Vericiguat: The Fifth Harmony of Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2023; 10:388. [PMID: 37754817 PMCID: PMC10531735 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd10090388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction is a chronic and progressive syndrome that continues to be a substantial financial burden for health systems in Western countries. Despite remarkable advances in pharmacologic and device-based therapy over the last few years, patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction have a high residual risk of adverse outcomes, even when treated with optimal guideline-directed medical therapy and in a clinically stable state. Worsening heart failure episodes represent a critical event in the heart failure trajectory, carrying high residual risk at discharge and dismal short- or long-term prognosis. Recently, vericiguat, a soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, has been proposed as a novel drug whose use is already associated with a reduction in heart failure-related hospitalizations in patients in guideline-directed medical therapy. In this review, we summarized the pathophysiology of the nitric oxide-soluble guanylate cyclase-cyclic guanosine monophosphate cascade in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, the pharmacology of vericiguat as well as the evidence regarding their use in patients with HFrEF. Finally, tips and tricks for its use in standard clinical practice are provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Falco
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Benedetta Brescia
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Dario Catapano
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Maria Luigia Martucci
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Fabio Valente
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Rita Gravino
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Carla Contaldi
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Giuseppe Pacileo
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| | - Daniele Masarone
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Naples, Italy; (L.F.); (D.C.); (M.L.M.); (F.V.); (R.G.); (C.C.); (G.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Friebe A, Kraehling JR, Russwurm M, Sandner P, Schmidtko A. The 10th International Conference on cGMP 2022: recent trends in cGMP research and development-meeting report. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2023; 396:1669-1686. [PMID: 37079081 PMCID: PMC10338386 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02484-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
Increasing cGMP is a unique therapeutic principle, and drugs inhibiting cGMP-degrading enzymes or stimulating cGMP production are approved for the treatment of various diseases such as erectile dysfunction, coronary artery disease, pulmonary hypertension, chronic heart failure, irritable bowel syndrome, or achondroplasia. In addition, cGMP-increasing therapies are preclinically profiled or in clinical development for quite a broad set of additional indications, e.g., neurodegenerative diseases or different forms of dementias, bone formation disorders, underlining the pivotal role of cGMP signaling pathways. The fundamental understanding of the signaling mediated by nitric oxide-sensitive (soluble) guanylyl cyclase and membrane-associated receptor (particulate) guanylyl cyclase at the molecular and cellular levels, as well as in vivo, especially in disease models, is a key prerequisite to fully exploit treatment opportunities and potential risks that could be associated with an excessive increase in cGMP. Furthermore, human genetic data and the clinical effects of cGMP-increasing drugs allow back-translation into basic research to further learn about signaling and treatment opportunities. The biannual international cGMP conference, launched nearly 20 years ago, brings all these aspects together as an established and important forum for all topics from basic science to clinical research and pivotal clinical trials. This review summarizes the contributions to the "10th cGMP Conference on cGMP Generators, Effectors and Therapeutic Implications," which was held in Augsburg in 2022 but will also provide an overview of recent key achievements and activities in the field of cGMP research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Friebe
- Institute of Physiology, University of Würzburg, Röntgenring 9, D-97070 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Jan R. Kraehling
- Pharmaceuticals, Research and Early Development, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, D-42096 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Michael Russwurm
- Institute of Pharmacology, Ruhr-University Bochum, Universitätsstr. 150, D-44801 Bochum, Germany
| | - Peter Sandner
- Pharmaceuticals, Research and Early Development, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, D-42096 Wuppertal, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625 Hannover, Germany
| | - Achim Schmidtko
- Institute of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, Goethe University, Max-Von-Laue-Str. 9, D-60438 Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tran BA, Serag-Bolos ES, Fernandez J, Miranda AC. Vericiguat: The First Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Stimulator for Reduction of Cardiovascular Death and Heart Failure Hospitalization in Patients With Heart Failure Reduced Ejection Fraction. J Pharm Pract 2023; 36:905-914. [PMID: 35356844 DOI: 10.1177/08971900221087096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Objective: This study aims to review the pharmacology, efficacy, and safety of the soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, vericiguat, in patients with symptomatic congestive heart failure with ejection fraction less than 45% for the reduction of cardiovascular deaths. Also, to evaluate heart failure-related hospitalization in patients following a hospital discharge secondary to heart failure or those that require outpatient intravenous diuretics. Data source: MEDLINE/Pubmed and National Institutes of Health Clinical Trial Registry were searched between January 1989 to February 2021 using the following terms: vericiguat, soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, heart failure, (was also known as) BAY 1021189. Study Selection and Data Extraction: The following study designs were included in the analysis: phase I, II, and III clinical trials; systematic reviews; and meta-analyses. Articles were included if they were published in English and evaluated vericiguat pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety. Data Synthesis: The Food and Drug Administration approved vericiguat for the reduction of cardiovascular death and hospitalization after having a related hospitalization or the need for outpatient intravenous diuretics, in those with symptomatic chronic heart failure and ejection fraction less than 45%. In the VICTORIA trial, vericiguat demonstrated a 10% reduction in risk of death from cardiovascular causes or first hospitalization for heart failure compared with placebo. Vericiguat was well tolerated overall with hypotension, syncope, and anemia noted as the most common side effects, similar to the other agent in its class. Conclusion: Vericiguat may be appropriate as add-on therapy for patients already on guideline-directed medical therapy with recent decompensated HFrEF to reduce hospitalization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bao-Anh Tran
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics & Clinical Research, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Erini S Serag-Bolos
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics & Clinical Research, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Joel Fernandez
- Cardiovascular Sciences Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Aimon C Miranda
- Department of Pharmacotherapeutics & Clinical Research, Taneja College of Pharmacy, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sahana U, Wehland M, Simonsen U, Schulz H, Grimm D. A Systematic Review of the Effect of Vericiguat on Patients with Heart Failure. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11826. [PMID: 37511587 PMCID: PMC10380763 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411826] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in heart failure (HF) therapy, the risk of cardiovascular (CV) mortality, morbidity, and HF hospitalization (HFH) are major challenges in HF treatment. We aimed to review the potential of vericiguat as a treatment option for HF. A systematic literature review was performed using the PubMed database and ClinicalTrials.gov. Four randomized controlled trials were identified, which study the safety and efficacy of vericiguat in HF patients. Vericiguat activates soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) by binding to the beta-subunit, bypassing the requirement for NO-induced activation. The nitric oxide (NO)-sGC-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway plays an essential role in cardiovascular (CV) regulation and the protection of healthy cardiac function but is impaired in HF. Vericiguat reduced the risk of CV death and HFH in HF patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) but showed no therapeutic effect on HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The trials demonstrated a favorable safety profile with most common adverse events such as hypotension, syncope, and anemia. Therefore, vericiguat is recommended for patients with HFrEF and a minimum systolic blood pressure of 100 mmHg. Treatment with vericiguat is considered when the individual patient experiences decompensation despite being on guideline-recommended medication, e.g., angiotensin-converting inhibitor/AT1 receptor antagonist, beta-adrenoceptor antagonist, spironolactone, and sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors. Furthermore, larger studies are required to investigate any potential effect of vericiguat in HFpEF patients. Despite the limitations, vericiguat can be recommended for patients with HFrEF, where standard-of-care is insufficient, and the disease worsens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Urjosee Sahana
- Department of Biomedicine, The Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark (U.S.)
| | - Markus Wehland
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.W.); (H.S.)
| | - Ulf Simonsen
- Department of Biomedicine, The Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark (U.S.)
| | - Herbert Schulz
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.W.); (H.S.)
| | - Daniela Grimm
- Department of Biomedicine, The Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Ole Worms Allé 4, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark (U.S.)
- Department of Microgravity and Translational Regenerative Medicine, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University, Universitätsplatz 2, 39106 Magdeburg, Germany; (M.W.); (H.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Siddiqi AK, Greene SJ, Fudim M, Mentz RJ, Butler J, Khan MS. Vericiguat for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2023; 21:245-257. [PMID: 36881733 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2023.2189101] [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] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite significant therapeutic advancements in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), the residual risk of all-cause mortality and hospitalizations remains high among patients with HFrEF. Vericiguat is a novel oral soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulator which was approved by the US Food and Drug administration (FDA) in January 2021 for use in patients with symptomatic chronic HF and an ejection fraction less than 45% following a hospitalization for HF or the need for outpatient intravenous diuretics. AREAS COVERED We provide a concise review of the pharmacology, clinical efficacy, and tolerability of vericiguat in HFrEF. We also discuss the role of vericiguat in current clinical practice. EXPERT OPINION Vericiguat reduces the risk of cardiovascular mortality or HF hospitalizations by an absolute event-rate reduction of 4.2 events per 100 patient-years with a number needed to treat of 24 patients, on a background of guideline-directed medical therapy. Almost 90% of the patients with HFrEF were adherent to the 10 mg dose of vericiguat in the VICTORIA trial with a favorable tolerability and safety profile. Considering the high residual risk that persists in HFrEF, vericiguat has a role to improve outcomes among patients with worsening HFrEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed K Siddiqi
- Department of Medicine, Ziauddin Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Stephen J Greene
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, USA.,Division of Cardiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Marat Fudim
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, USA.,Division of Cardiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Robert J Mentz
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Duke Clinical Research Institute, Durham, NC, USA.,Division of Cardiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Javed Butler
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi, Jackson, Mississippi, USA; Baylor Scott and White Research Institute, Dallas, Tx, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Vericiguat in Heart Failure: Characteristics, Scientific Evidence and Potential Clinical Applications. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102471. [PMID: 36289733 PMCID: PMC9598881 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in heart failure (HF) management, the risk of death and hospitalizations remains high in the long term. HF is characterized by endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and increased oxidative stress, due to a reduction in the activity of the nitric oxide (NO)-soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling pathway. All these factors contribute to direct damage at the myocardial, vascular and renal level. Vericiguat restores the deficiency in this signaling pathway, through stimulation and activation of sGC, aiming to increase cGMP levels, with a reduction in HF-related oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction. Two main clinical trials were developed in this setting: the SOCRATES-REDUCED phase II study and the VICTORIA phase III study. They found that vericiguat is safe, well tolerated and effective with an absolute event-rate reduction in patients affected by HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and recent cardiac decompensation. In patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HfpEF), the SOCRATES-PRESERVED trial demonstrated an improvement in quality of life and health status, but the proven beneficial effects with vericiguat are still limited. Further studies are needed to correctly define the role of this drug in heart failure syndromes. Our paper reviews the potential applications and pharmacological characteristics of vericiguat in HFrEF and HFpEF.
Collapse
|
12
|
Trujillo ME, Arrington L, Patel Y, Passarell J, Wenning L, Blaustein RO, Armstrong PW, Meyer M, Becker C, Gheyas F. Population Pharmacokinetics of Vericiguat in Patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: An Integrated Analysis. Clin Pharmacol Ther 2022; 112:1061-1069. [PMID: 35841202 DOI: 10.1002/cpt.2712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Vericiguat, a novel stimulator of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), is indicated for the treatment of patients following a hospitalization for heart failure or need for outpatient IV diuretics, with symptomatic chronic heart failure and ejection fraction less than 45%. Pharmacokinetic (PK) data from the phase II trial SOCRATES-REDUCED (SOluble guanylate Cyclase stimulatoR in heArT failurE Study) and the phase III trial VICTORIA (Vericiguat Global Study in Patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction) were used to characterize vericiguat PK. A total of 8,092 concentration records from 2,321 participants (362 from SOCRATES-REDUCED and 1,959 from VICTORIA) were utilized for the development of the population PK (PPK) model. The final PK model was a one-compartment model with first-order absorption and linear elimination. Baseline body weight and time-varying body weight were identified as statistically significant covariates affecting apparent clearance (CL/F) and volume of distribution (Vc ), respectively. Age, sex, race, bilirubin, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and albumin did not affect vericiguat PK. Baseline disease-related factors, such as left ventricular ejection fraction, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, and N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), also did not influence vericiguat PK. Since vericiguat is a titrated drug, the impact of vericiguat PK on the titration to and maintenance of the target dose in VICTORIA was assessed. The distribution of steady-state doses in VICTORIA was similar across CL/F quartiles, suggesting that the ability to reach and maintain dosing at the target 10 mg dose was not related to vericiguat exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leticia Arrington
- Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, New Jersey, USA.,Amgen Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Yogesh Patel
- Cognigen Corporation, a Simulations Plus company, Buffalo, New York, USA.,Sarepta Therapeutics, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Julie Passarell
- Cognigen Corporation, a Simulations Plus company, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | | | | | - Paul W Armstrong
- Canadian VIGOUR Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
|
14
|
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide at Admission Is a Predictor of All-Cause Mortality at One Year after the First Acute Episode of New-Onset Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. J Pers Med 2022; 12:jpm12060890. [PMID: 35743676 PMCID: PMC9225135 DOI: 10.3390/jpm12060890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has been assessed extensively, but few studies analysed the predictive value of the NT-proBNP in patients with de novo and acute HFpEF. We sought to identify NT-proBNP at admission as a predictor for all-cause mortality and rehospitalisation at 12 months in patients with new-onset HFpEF. Methods: We analysed 91 patients (73 ± 11 years, 68% females) admitted for de novo and acute HFpEF, using the Cox proportional hazard risk model. Results: An admission NT-proBNP level above the threshold of 2910 pg/mL identified increased all-cause mortality at 12 months (AUC = 0.72, sensitivity = 92%, specificity = 53%, p < 0.001). All-cause mortality adjusted for age, gender, medical history, and medication in the augmented NT-proBNP group was 16-fold higher (p = 0.018), but with no difference in rehospitalisation rates (p = 0.391). The predictors of increased NT-proBNP ≥ 2910 pg/mL were: age (p = 0.016), estimated glomerular filtration rate (p = 0.006), left atrial volume index (p = 0.001), history of atrial fibrillation (p = 0.006), and TAPSE (p = 0.009). Conclusions: NT-proBNP above 2910 pg/mL at admission for de novo and acute HFpEF predicted a 16-fold increased mortality at 12 months, whereas values less than 2910 pg/mL forecast a high likelihood of survival (99.3%) in the next 12 months, and should be considered as a useful prognostic tool, in addition to its utility in diagnosing heart failure.
Collapse
|
15
|
Kamynina A, Guttzeit S, Eaton P, Cuello F. Nitroxyl Donor CXL-1020 Lowers Blood Pressure by Targeting C195 in Cyclic Guanosine-3',5'-Monophosphate-Dependent Protein Kinase I. Hypertension 2022; 79:946-956. [PMID: 35168371 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.122.18756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We previously demonstrated that nitroxyl causes vasodilation, at least in part, by inducing the formation of an intradisulfide bond between C117 and C195 in the high affinity cyclic guanosine monophosphate-binding site of PKGI (cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent protein kinase I). The aim of this study was to determine whether nitroxyl donors lower blood pressure via this novel PKGI activation mechanism in vivo. METHODS To determine this, a C195S PKGI knock-in mouse model was generated that ubiquitously and constitutively expresses a mutant kinase resistant to nitroxyl-induced intradisulfide activation. RESULTS Knock-in and wild-type littermates did not differ in appearance, body weight, in PKGI protein expression or blood gas content. Organ weight was similar between genotypes apart from the cecum that was significantly enlarged in knock-in animals. Mean arterial pressure and heart rate monitored in vivo over 24 hours by radio-telemetry revealed neither a significant difference between genotypes at baseline nor during angiotensin II-induced hypertension or sepsis. CXL-1020, a clinically relevant nitroxyl donor, did not lower blood pressure in normotensive animals. In contrast, administering CXL-1020 to hypertensive wild-type mice reduced their blood pressure by 10±4 mm Hg (P=0.0184), whereas the knock-in littermates were unaffected. CONCLUSIONS Oxidation of C195 in PKGI contributes to the antihypertensive effects observed in response to nitroxyl donors, emphasising the potential importance of nitroxyl donors in pathological scenarios when cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels are reduced and insufficient to activate PKGI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alisa Kamynina
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom (A.K., S.G., P.E.)
| | - Sebastian Guttzeit
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom (A.K., S.G., P.E.)
| | - Philip Eaton
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, United Kingdom (A.K., S.G., P.E.)
| | - Friederike Cuello
- Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology, Cardiovascular Research Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany (F.C.)
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany (F.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ilieșiu AM, Hodorogea AS, Balahura AM, Bădilă E. Non-Invasive Assessment of Congestion by Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Ultrasound and Biomarkers in Heart Failure. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12040962. [PMID: 35454010 PMCID: PMC9024731 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12040962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Worsening chronic heart failure (HF) is responsible for recurrent hospitalization and increased mortality risk after discharge, irrespective to the ejection fraction. Symptoms and signs of pulmonary and systemic congestion are the most common cause for hospitalization of acute decompensated HF, as a consequence of increased cardiac filling pressures. The elevated cardiac filling pressures, also called hemodynamic congestion, may precede the occurrence of clinical congestion by days or weeks. Since HF patients often have comorbidities, dyspnoea, the main symptom of HF, may be also caused by respiratory or other illnesses. Recent studies underline the importance of the diagnosis and treatment of hemodynamic congestion before HF symptoms worsen, reducing hospitalization and improving prognosis. In this paper we review the role of integrated evaluation of biomarkers and imaging technics, i.e., echocardiography and pulmonary ultrasound, for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of congestion in HF patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Mihaela Ilieșiu
- Cardiology and Internal Medicine Department, Theodor Burghele Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Andreea Simona Hodorogea
- Cardiology and Internal Medicine Department, Theodor Burghele Clinical Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +40-72-631-5872
| | - Ana-Maria Balahura
- Internal Medicine Department, Bucharest Clinical Emergency Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-M.B.); (E.B.)
| | - Elisabeta Bădilă
- Internal Medicine Department, Bucharest Clinical Emergency Hospital, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (A.-M.B.); (E.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
González-Juanatey J, Anguita-Sánchez M, Bayes-Genís A, Comín-Colet J, García-Quintana A, Recio-Mayoral A, Zamorano-Gómez J, Cepeda-Rodrigo J, Manzano L. Vericiguat in heart failure: From scientific evidence to clinical practice. Rev Clin Esp 2022; 222:359-369. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rceng.2021.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
18
|
Boettcher M, Mikus G, Trenk D, Düngen HD, Donath F, Werner N, Karakas M, Besche N, Schulz-Burck D, Gerrits M, Hung J, Becker C. Vericiguat in combination with isosorbide mononitrate in patients with chronic coronary syndromes: The randomized, phase Ib, VISOR study. Clin Transl Sci 2022; 15:1204-1214. [PMID: 35299288 PMCID: PMC9099120 DOI: 10.1111/cts.13238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vericiguat was developed for the treatment of symptomatic chronic heart failure (HF) in adult patients with reduced ejection fraction who are stabilized after a recent decompensation event. Guidelines recommend long‐acting nitrates, such as isosorbide mononitrate, for angina prophylaxis in chronic coronary syndromes (CCS), common comorbidities in HF. This study evaluated safety, tolerability, and the pharmacodynamic (PD) interaction between co‐administered vericiguat and isosorbide mononitrate in patients with CCS. In this phase Ib, double‐blind, multicenter study, patients were randomized 2:1 to receive vericiguat plus isosorbide mononitrate (n = 28) or placebo plus isosorbide mononitrate (n = 13). Isosorbide mononitrate was uptitrated to a stable dose of 60 mg once daily, followed by co‐administration with vericiguat (uptitrated every 2 weeks from 2.5 mg to 5 mg and 10 mg) or placebo. Thirty‐five patients completed treatment (vericiguat, n = 23; placebo, n = 12). Mean baseline‐ and placebo‐adjusted vital signs showed reductions of 1.4–5.1 mmHg (systolic blood pressure) and 0.4–2.9 mmHg (diastolic blood pressure) and increases of 0.0–1.8 beats per minute (heart rate) with vericiguat plus isosorbide mononitrate. No consistent vericiguat dose‐dependent PD effects were noted. The incidence of adverse events (AEs) was 92.3% and 66.7% in the vericiguat and placebo groups, respectively, and most were mild in intensity. Blood pressure and heart rate changes observed with vericiguat plus isosorbide mononitrate were not considered clinically relevant. This combination was generally well‐tolerated. Concomitant use of vericiguat with isosorbide mononitrate is unlikely to cause significant AEs beyond those known for isosorbide mononitrate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Boettcher
- Clinical Pharmacology, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany.,Graduate Physicist and Physician and Lecturer at the University of Applied Science at the RFH-Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gerd Mikus
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacoepidemiology, University Hospital Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dietmar Trenk
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology II, Section Clinical Pharmacology, Heart Center, University of Freiburg, Bad Krozingen, Germany
| | - Hans-Dirk Düngen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Nikos Werner
- Heart Center Trier, Krankenhaus der Barmherzigen Bruder, Nordallee, Trier, Germany
| | - Mahir Karakas
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center, Hamburg Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nina Besche
- Chrestos Concept GmbH & Co. KG, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Mireille Gerrits
- Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp, a Subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, New Jersey, USA
| | - James Hung
- Clinical Operations, Study Medical Experts, Bayer SA, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Del Torto A, Guaricci AI, Pomarico F, Guglielmo M, Fusini L, Monitillo F, Santoro D, Vannini M, Rossi A, Muscogiuri G, Baggiano A, Pontone G. Advances in Multimodality Cardiovascular Imaging in the Diagnosis of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:758975. [PMID: 35355965 PMCID: PMC8959466 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.758975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a syndrome defined by the presence of heart failure symptoms and increased levels of circulating natriuretic peptide (NP) in patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction and various degrees of diastolic dysfunction (DD). HFpEF is a complex condition that encompasses a wide range of different etiologies. Cardiovascular imaging plays a pivotal role in diagnosing HFpEF, in identifying specific underlying etiologies, in prognostic stratification, and in therapeutic individualization. Echocardiography is the first line imaging modality with its wide availability; it has high spatial and temporal resolution and can reliably assess systolic and diastolic function. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is the gold standard for cardiac morphology and function assessment, and has superior contrast resolution to look in depth into tissue changes and help to identify specific HFpEF etiologies. Differently, the most important role of nuclear imaging [i.e., planar scintigraphy and/or single photon emission CT (SPECT)] consists in the screening and diagnosis of cardiac transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) in patients with HFpEF. Cardiac CT can accurately evaluate coronary artery disease both from an anatomical and functional point of view, but tissue characterization methods have also been developed. The aim of this review is to critically summarize the current uses and future perspectives of echocardiography, nuclear imaging, CT, and CMR in patients with HFpEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alberico Del Torto
- Department of Emergency and Acute Cardiac Care, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | | | - Marco Guglielmo
- Cardiovascular Imaging Department, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Laura Fusini
- Cardiovascular Imaging Department, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Santoro
- University Cardiology Unit, Policlinic University Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Monica Vannini
- University Cardiology Unit, Policlinic University Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Alexia Rossi
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Giuseppe Muscogiuri
- Department of Radiology, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, San Luca Hospital, Milan, Italy
- University Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Baggiano
- Cardiovascular Imaging Department, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Gianluca Pontone
- Cardiovascular Imaging Department, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Gianluca Pontone
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Mongirdienė A, Skrodenis L, Varoneckaitė L, Mierkytė G, Gerulis J. Reactive Oxygen Species Induced Pathways in Heart Failure Pathogenesis and Potential Therapeutic Strategies. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10030602. [PMID: 35327404 PMCID: PMC8945343 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10030602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
With respect to structural and functional cardiac disorders, heart failure (HF) is divided into HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Oxidative stress contributes to the development of both HFrEF and HFpEF. Identification of a broad spectrum of reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced pathways in preclinical models has provided new insights about the importance of ROS in HFrEF and HFpEF development. While current treatment strategies mostly concern neuroendocrine inhibition, recent data on ROS-induced metabolic pathways in cardiomyocytes may offer additional treatment strategies and targets for both of the HF forms. The purpose of this article is to summarize the results achieved in the fields of: (1) ROS importance in HFrEF and HFpEF pathophysiology, and (2) treatments for inhibiting ROS-induced pathways in HFrEF and HFpEF patients. ROS-producing pathways in cardiomyocytes, ROS-activated pathways in different HF forms, and treatment options to inhibit their action are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aušra Mongirdienė
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Eiveniu str. 4, LT-50161 Kaunas, Lithuania
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +370-837361768
| | - Laurynas Skrodenis
- Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Mickevičiaus str. 9, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.S.); (L.V.); (G.M.); (J.G.)
| | - Leila Varoneckaitė
- Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Mickevičiaus str. 9, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.S.); (L.V.); (G.M.); (J.G.)
| | - Gerda Mierkytė
- Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Mickevičiaus str. 9, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.S.); (L.V.); (G.M.); (J.G.)
| | - Justinas Gerulis
- Medical Academy, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Mickevičiaus str. 9, LT-44307 Kaunas, Lithuania; (L.S.); (L.V.); (G.M.); (J.G.)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bénardeau A, Kahnert A, Schomber T, Meyer J, Pavkovic M, Kretschmer A, Lawrenz B, Hartmann E, Mathar I, Hueser J, Kraehling JR, Eitner F, Hahn MG, Stasch JP, Sandner P. Runcaciguat, a novel soluble guanylate cyclase activator, shows renoprotection in hypertensive, diabetic, and metabolic preclinical models of chronic kidney disease. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2021; 394:2363-2379. [PMID: 34550407 PMCID: PMC8592982 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-021-02149-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Chronic kidney diseaQueryse (CKD) is associated with oxidative stress which can interrupt the nitric oxide (NO)/soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) signaling and decrease cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) production. Low cGMP concentrations can cause kidney damage and progression of CKD. The novel sGC activator runcaciguat targets the oxidized and heme-free form of sGC, restoring cGMP production under oxidative stress. The purpose of this study is to investigate if runcaciguat could provide an effective treatment for CKD. Runcaciguat was used for the treatment not only in rat CKD models with different etiologies and comorbidities, namely of hypertensive rats, the renin transgenic (RenTG) rat, and angiotensin-supplemented (ANG-SD) rat, but also in rats with diabetic and metabolic CKD, the Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rat. The treatment duration was 2 to 42 weeks and runcaciguat was applied orally in doses from 1 to 10 mg/kg/bid. In these different rat CKD models, runcaciguat significantly reduced proteinuria (urinary protein to creatinine ratio; uPCR). These effects were also significant at doses which did not or only moderately decrease systemic blood pressure. Moreover, runcaciguat significantly decreased kidney injury biomarkers and attenuated morphological kidney damages. In RenTG rats, runcaciguat improved survival rates and markers of heart injury. These data demonstrate that the sGC activator runcaciguat exhibits cardio-renal protection at doses which did not reduce blood pressure and was effective in hypertensive as well as diabetic and metabolic CKD models. These data, therefore, suggest that runcaciguat, with its specific mode of action, represents an efficient treatment approach for CKD and associated CV diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agnès Bénardeau
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
- Novo Nordisk, Bagsværd, Denmark
| | - Antje Kahnert
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Tibor Schomber
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Jutta Meyer
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Mira Pavkovic
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Axel Kretschmer
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Bettina Lawrenz
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Elke Hartmann
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Ilka Mathar
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Joerg Hueser
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Jan R Kraehling
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Frank Eitner
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
- Division of Nephrology and Clinical Immunology, RWTH Aachen University, 52062, Aachen, Germany
| | - Michael G Hahn
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Johannes-Peter Stasch
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin Luther University, 06120, Halle, Germany
| | - Peter Sandner
- Cardiovascular Research, Pharma Research Center, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18A, 42096, Wuppertal, Germany.
- Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, 30625, Hannover, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sandner P, Follmann M, Becker-Pelster E, Hahn MG, Meier C, Freitas C, Roessig L, Stasch JP. Soluble GC stimulators and activators: Past, present and future. Br J Pharmacol 2021. [PMID: 34600441 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of soluble GC (sGC) stimulators and sGC activators provided valuable tools to elucidate NO-sGC signalling and opened novel pharmacological opportunities for cardiovascular indications and beyond. The first-in-class sGC stimulator riociguat was approved for pulmonary hypertension in 2013 and vericiguat very recently for heart failure. sGC stimulators enhance sGC activity independent of NO and also act synergistically with endogenous NO. The sGC activators specifically bind to, and activate, the oxidised haem-free form of sGC. Substantial research efforts improved on the first-generation sGC activators such as cinaciguat, culminating in the discovery of runcaciguat, currently in clinical Phase II trials for chronic kidney disease and diabetic retinopathy. Here, we highlight the discovery and development of sGC stimulators and sGC activators, their unique modes of action, their preclinical characteristics and the clinical studies. In the future, we expect to see more sGC agonists in new indications, reflecting their unique therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sandner
- Pharmaceuticals Research & Development, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Markus Follmann
- Pharmaceuticals Research & Development, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | | | - Michael G Hahn
- Pharmaceuticals Research & Development, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Christian Meier
- Pharmaceuticals Medical Affairs and Pharmacovigilance, Bayer AG, Berlin, Germany
| | - Cecilia Freitas
- Pharmaceuticals Research & Development, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Lothar Roessig
- Pharmaceuticals Research & Development, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Johannes-Peter Stasch
- Pharmaceuticals Research & Development, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Cordwin DJ, Berei TJ, Pogue KT. The Role of sGC Stimulators and Activators in Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2021; 26:593-600. [PMID: 34487435 DOI: 10.1177/10742484211042706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Over the past decade, soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) activators and stimulators have been developed and studied to improve outcomes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). The sGC enzyme plays an important role in the nitric oxide (NO)-sGC-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway, that has been largely untargeted by current guideline directed medical therapy (GDMT) for HFrEF. Disruption of the NO-sCG-cGMP pathway can be widely observed in patients with HFrEF leading to endothelial dysfunction. The disruption is caused by an oxidized state resulting in low bioavailability of NO and cGMP. The increase in reactive oxygen species can also result in an oxidized, and subsequently heme free, sGC enzyme that NO is unable to activate, furthering the endothelial dysfunction. The novel sGC stimulators enhance the sensitivity of sGC to NO, and independently stimulate sGC, while the sGC activators target the oxidized and heme free sGC to stimulate cGMP production. This review will discuss the pathophysiologic basis for sGC stimulator and activator use in HFrEF, review the pre-clinical and clinical data, and propose a place in the HFrEF armamentarium for this novel pharmacotherapeutic class.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Cordwin
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, 15514University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Theodore J Berei
- Department of Pharmacy, 5228University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kristen T Pogue
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, 15514University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Pharmacy, 15514University of Michigan Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Campbell N, Kalabalik-Hoganson J, Frey K. Vericiguat: A Novel Oral Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Stimulator for the Treatment of Heart Failure. Ann Pharmacother 2021; 56:600-608. [PMID: 34431706 DOI: 10.1177/10600280211041384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the efficacy and safety of vericiguat indicated to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure (HF) hospitalization following hospitalization or need for outpatient intravenous diuretics in adult patients with chronic symptomatic HF and ejection fraction (EF) less than 45%. DATA SOURCES A literature search through MEDLINE with search terms MK1242, BAY 1021189, and vericiguat was conducted. Product labeling and English-language studies assessing pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy, or safety of vericiguat were included. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION Preclinical and clinical studies describing the efficacy and safety of vericiguat were included. DATA SYNTHESIS The phase 3 VICTORIA clinical trial demonstrated a lower composite primary outcome of death from cardiovascular causes or first hospitalization in the vericiguat group compared to placebo. Total hospitalizations for HF in the vericiguat group were significantly less compared to placebo. The composite secondary outcome of death from any cause or first HF hospitalization was significantly less in the vericiguat group. RELEVANCE TO PATIENT CARE AND CLINICAL PRACTICE The addition of vericiguat offers a new treatment option for those in whom rehospitalization or recurrent outpatient intravenous diuretic treatment is a concern. Given high rates of nonadherence in HF patients, vericiguat represents an additional treatment option, especially for patients who do not tolerate available HF therapies. CONCLUSION Vericiguat is a novel soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator that is safe and effective for reducing the risk of cardiovascular death and HF hospitalization in adults with symptomatic chronic HF and reduced EF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Campbell
- Fairleigh Dickinson University, Florham Park, NJ, USA.,Morristown Medical Center, Morristown, NJ, USA
| | | | - Kathleen Frey
- Fairleigh Dickinson University, Florham Park, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Myocardial Tissue Characterization in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: From Histopathology and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Findings to Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147650. [PMID: 34299270 PMCID: PMC8304780 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a complex clinical syndrome responsible for high mortality and morbidity rates. It has an ever growing social and economic impact and a deeper knowledge of molecular and pathophysiological basis is essential for the ideal management of HFpEF patients. The association between HFpEF and traditional cardiovascular risk factors is known. However, myocardial alterations, as well as pathophysiological mechanisms involved are not completely defined. Under the definition of HFpEF there is a wide spectrum of different myocardial structural alterations. Myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis, coronary microvascular dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation are only some of the main pathological detectable processes. Furthermore, there is a lack of effective pharmacological targets to improve HFpEF patients' outcomes and risk factors control is the primary and unique approach to treat those patients. Myocardial tissue characterization, through invasive and non-invasive techniques, such as endomyocardial biopsy and cardiac magnetic resonance respectively, may represent the starting point to understand the genetic, molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this complex syndrome. The correlation between histopathological findings and imaging aspects may be the future challenge for the earlier and large-scale HFpEF diagnosis, in order to plan a specific and effective treatment able to modify the disease's natural course.
Collapse
|
26
|
Siri-Angkul N, Dadfar B, Jaleel R, Naushad J, Parambathazhath J, Doye AA, Xie LH, Gwathmey JK. Calcium and Heart Failure: How Did We Get Here and Where Are We Going? Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147392. [PMID: 34299010 PMCID: PMC8306046 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The occurrence and prevalence of heart failure remain high in the United States as well as globally. One person dies every 30 s from heart disease. Recognizing the importance of heart failure, clinicians and scientists have sought better therapeutic strategies and even cures for end-stage heart failure. This exploration has resulted in many failed clinical trials testing novel classes of pharmaceutical drugs and even gene therapy. As a result, along the way, there have been paradigm shifts toward and away from differing therapeutic approaches. The continued prevalence of death from heart failure, however, clearly demonstrates that the heart is not simply a pump and instead forces us to consider the complexity of simplicity in the pathophysiology of heart failure and reinforces the need to discover new therapeutic approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natthaphat Siri-Angkul
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Rutgers University-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Research and Training Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Behzad Dadfar
- Department of General Medicine, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari 1471655836, Iran
| | - Riya Jaleel
- School of International Education, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Jazna Naushad
- Weill Cornell Medicine Qatar, Doha P. O. Box 24144, Qatar
| | | | | | - Lai-Hua Xie
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Rutgers University-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Judith K. Gwathmey
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, Rutgers University-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +973-972-2411; Fax: +973-972-7489
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Zhang L, Chen J, Yan L, He Q, Xie H, Chen M. Resveratrol Ameliorates Cardiac Remodeling in a Murine Model of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:646240. [PMID: 34177571 PMCID: PMC8225267 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.646240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Accumulating evidence suggested that resveratrol (RES) could protect against adverse cardiac remodeling induced by several cardiovascular diseases. However, the role of RES in the setting of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and the underlying mechanisms of its action remain understood. This study was to determine whether RES could ameliorate HFpEF-induced cardiac remodeling and its mechanisms. Methods:In vivo, C57BL/6 mice served as either the sham or the HFpEF model. The HFpEF mice model was induced by uninephrectomy surgery and d-aldosterone infusion. RES (10 mg/kg/day, ig) or saline was administered to the mice for four weeks. In vitro, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) was used to stimulate neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) and Ex-527 was used to inhibit sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) in CFs. Echocardiography, hemodynamics, western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR, histological analysis, immunofluorescence, and ELISA kits were used to evaluate cardiac remodeling induced by HFpEF. Sirt1 and Smad3 expressions were measured to explore the underlying mechanisms of RES. Results: HFpEF mice developed left ventricular hypertrophy, preserved ejection fraction, diastolic dysfunction, and pulmonary congestion. Moreover, HFpEF mice showed increased infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages into the heart, including increased interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. We also observed elevated M1 macrophages and decreased M2 macrophages, which were exhibited by increased mRNA expression of M1 markers (iNOS, CD86, and CD80) and decreased mRNA expression of M2 markers (Arg1, CD163, and CD206) in HFpEF hearts. Moreover, HFpEF hearts showed increased levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Importantly, HFpEF mice depicted increased collagen-I and -III and TGF-β mRNA expressions and decreased protein expression of phosphorylated endothelial nitric-oxide synthase (p-eNOS). Results of western blot revealed that the activated TGF-β/Smad3 signaling pathway mediated HFpEF-induced cardiac remodeling. As expected, this HFpEF-induced cardiac remodeling was reversed when treated with RES. RES significantly decreased Smad3 acetylation and inhibited Smad3 transcriptional activity induced by HFpEF via activating Sirt1. Inhibited Sirt1 with Ex-527 increased Smad3 acetylation, enhanced Smad3 transcriptional activity, and offset the protective effect of RES on TGF-β–induced cardiac fibroblast–myofibroblast transformation in CFs. Conclusion: Our results suggested that RES exerts a protective action against HFpEF-induced adverse cardiac remodeling by decreasing Smad3 acetylation and transcriptional activity via activating Sirt1. RES is expected to be a novel therapy option for HFpEF patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liyun Zhang
- Department of Cardiology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lianhua Yan
- Department of Cardiology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qin He
- Department of Cardiology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Han Xie
- Department of Cardiology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Manhua Chen
- Department of Cardiology, The Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Hulot JS, Trochu JN, Donal E, Galinier M, Logeart D, De Groote P, Juillière Y. Vericiguat for the treatment of heart failure: mechanism of action and pharmacological properties compared with other emerging therapeutic options. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2021; 22:1847-1855. [PMID: 34074190 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2021.1937121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The significant morbidity and mortality in patients with heart failure (HF), notably in the most advanced forms of the disease, justify the need for novel therapeutic options. In the last year, the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) stimulator, vericiguat, has drawn the attention of the medical community following the report of reduced clinical outcomes in patients with worsening chronic HF (WCHF). AREAS COVERED The authors review the available data on the mechanism of action of vericiguat (cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) pathway), its clinical development program, its role in HF management, and its future positioning in the therapeutic recommendations. EXPERT OPINION cGMP deficiency has deleterious effects on the heart and contributes to the progression of HF. Different molecules, including nitric oxide (NO) donors, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and natriuretic peptides analogues, target the NO-sCG-cGMP pathway but have yielded conflicting results in HF patients. Vericiguat acts as a sGC stimulator thus targeting the NO-sGC-cGMP pathway by a different mechanism that complements the current pharmacotherapy for HF. Vericiguat has shown an additional statistical add-on therapy efficacy by reducing morbi-mortality in patients with WCHF. A better evaluation of HF severity might be an important determinant to guide the use of vericiguat among the available therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Sébastien Hulot
- Université de Paris, INSERM, PARCC, Paris, France.,CIC1418 and DMU CARTE, AP-HP, Hôpital Européen Georges-Pompidou, Paris, France
| | - Jean-Noël Trochu
- Université de Nantes, CHU Nantes, CNRS, INSERM, l'institut du Thorax, Nantes, France
| | - Erwan Donal
- LTSI INSERM U1099, Service de Cardiologie et Maladies Vasculaires, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Rennes, Université Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Michel Galinier
- Department of Cardiology, Toulouse-Rangueil University Hospital, Toulouse University School of Medicine, Toulouse, France
| | - Damien Logeart
- Department of Cardiology, Lariboisière Hospital, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Pascal De Groote
- CHU Lille, Service de Cardiologie, France.,INSERM U1167, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Yves Juillière
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nancy Brabois, Vandoeuvre Lès Nancy, France
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Ruehs H, Klein D, Frei M, Grevel J, Austin R, Becker C, Roessig L, Pieske B, Garmann D, Meyer M. Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Vericiguat in Patients with Heart Failure and Reduced Ejection Fraction. Clin Pharmacokinet 2021; 60:1407-1421. [PMID: 34086190 PMCID: PMC8585847 DOI: 10.1007/s40262-021-01024-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Vericiguat, a stimulator of soluble guanylate cyclase, has been developed as a first-in-class therapy for worsening chronic heart failure in adults with left ventricular ejection fraction < 45%. Objective The objective of this article was to characterize the pharmacokinetics and pharmacokinetic variability of vericiguat combined with guideline-directed medical therapy (standard of care), and identify exposure–response relationships for safety (hemodynamics) and pharmacodynamic markers of efficacy (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide concentration [NT-proBNP]) in patients with heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction < 45% in the SOCRATES-REDUCED study (NCT01951625). Methods Vericiguat and NT-proBNP plasma concentrations in 454 and 432 patients in SOCRATES-REDUCED, respectively, were analyzed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. Results Vericiguat pharmacokinetics were well described by a one-compartment model with apparent clearance, apparent volume of distribution, and absorption rate constant. Age, bodyweight, plasma bilirubin, and creatinine clearance were identified as significant covariates on apparent clearance; sex and bodyweight on apparent volume of distribution; and bodyweight and plasma albumin level on absorption rate constant. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic analysis showed initial minor and transient effects of vericiguat on blood pressure with low clinical impact. There were no changes in heart rate following initial or repeated vericiguat administration. An exposure-dependent and time-dependent turnover pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model for NT-proBNP described production and elimination rates and an demonstrated exposure-dependent reduction in [NT-proBNP] by vericiguat plus standard of care compared with placebo plus standard of care. This effect was dependent on baseline [NT-proBNP]. Conclusions Vericiguat has predictable pharmacokinetics, with no long-term effects on blood pressure in patients with heart failure and left ventricular ejection fraction < 45%. A pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model described a vericiguat exposure-dependent reduction of NT-proBNP. Clinical Trial Identifier NCT01951625. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40262-021-01024-y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hauke Ruehs
- Pharmacometrics, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Dagmar Klein
- Pharmacometrics, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Matthias Frei
- Pharmacometrics, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Burkert Pieske
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine, Campus Virchow-Klinikum, and German Heart Center, Berlin, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Dirk Garmann
- Pharmacometrics, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Michaela Meyer
- Pharmacometrics, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Zamfirescu MB, Ghilencea LN, Popescu MR, Bejan GC, Maher SM, Popescu AC, Dorobanțu M. The E/e' Ratio-Role in Risk Stratification of Acute Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57040375. [PMID: 33924367 PMCID: PMC8070491 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57040375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains a worldwide management problem. Although there is a general effort for characterizing this population, few studies have assessed the predictive value of the echocardiographic E/e’ ratio in patients with acute HFpEF. The aim of the study was to identify groups with different prognosis in patients hospitalized with a first acute episode of HFpEF. Materials and Methods: The primary endpoint of the study was heart failure readmissions (HFR) at 6 months, while the secondary outcome was six-month mortality. We consecutively enrolled 91 patients hospitalized for the first time with acute HFpEF. We examined the E/e’ ratio as an independent predictor for HFR using univariate regression. Results: We identified and validated the E/e’ ratio as an independent predictor for HFR. An E/e’ ratio threshold value of 13.80 was calculated [(area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) = 0.693, sensitivity = 78.60%, specificity = 55%, p < 0.004)] and validated as an inflection point for an increased number of HFR. Thus, we divided the study cohort into two groups: group 1 with an E/e’ ratio < 13.80 (n = 39) and group 2 with an E/e’ ratio > 13.80 (n = 49). Compared to group 1, group 2 had an increased number of HFR (p = 0.003) and a shorter time to first HFR (p = 0.002). However, this parameter did not influence all-cause mortality within six months (p = 0.84). Conclusions: The dimensionless E/e’ ratio is a useful discriminator between patients with acute HFpEF. An E/e’ value over 13.80 represents a simple, yet effective instrument for assessing the HFR risk. However, all-cause mortality at six months is not influenced by the E/e’ ratio.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marilena-Brîndușa Zamfirescu
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-B.Z.); (G.C.B.); (A.-C.P.); (M.D.)
- Department of Cardiology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Liviu-Nicolae Ghilencea
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-B.Z.); (G.C.B.); (A.-C.P.); (M.D.)
- Department of Cardiology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (L.-N.G.); (M.-R.P.); Tel.: +44-753-504-3647 (L.-N.G.); +40-723-583-365 (M.-R.P.)
| | - Mihaela-Roxana Popescu
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-B.Z.); (G.C.B.); (A.-C.P.); (M.D.)
- Department of Cardiology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (L.-N.G.); (M.-R.P.); Tel.: +44-753-504-3647 (L.-N.G.); +40-723-583-365 (M.-R.P.)
| | - Gabriel Cristian Bejan
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-B.Z.); (G.C.B.); (A.-C.P.); (M.D.)
| | - Sean Martin Maher
- Department of Accidents and Emergencies, St. Vincent University Hospital, D04 N2E0 Dublin 4, Ireland;
| | - Andreea-Catarina Popescu
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-B.Z.); (G.C.B.); (A.-C.P.); (M.D.)
- Department of Cardiology, Elias Emergency University Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Maria Dorobanțu
- Cardiothoracic Pathology Department, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-B.Z.); (G.C.B.); (A.-C.P.); (M.D.)
- Department of Cardiology, Clinic Emergency Hospital, 20322 Bucharest, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Boettcher M, Thomas D, Mueck W, Loewen S, Arens E, Yoshikawa K, Becker C. Safety, pharmacodynamic, and pharmacokinetic characterization of vericiguat: results from six phase I studies in healthy subjects. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 2021; 77:527-537. [PMID: 33125516 PMCID: PMC7935833 DOI: 10.1007/s00228-020-03023-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize the safety, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of vericiguat in healthy males. METHODS Six phase I studies were conducted in European, Chinese, and Japanese males. Subjects received oral vericiguat as a single dose (0.5-15.0 mg solution [for first-in-human study] or 1.25-10.0 mg immediate release [IR tablets]) or multiple doses (1.25-10.0 mg IR tablets once daily [QD] or 5.0 mg IR tablets twice daily for 7 consecutive days). Bioavailability and food effects on vericiguat PK (IR tablets) were also studied in European subjects. RESULTS Overall, 255 of 265 randomized subjects completed their respective studies. There were no deaths or serious adverse events. Vericiguat was generally well tolerated at doses ≤ 10.0 mg. In the first-in-human study, the most frequent drug-related adverse events were headache and postural dizziness (experienced by five subjects each [7.2%]). Three of four subjects who received vericiguat 15.0 mg (oral solution, fasted) experienced orthostatic reactions. Vericiguat (≤ 10.0 mg, IR tablets) was rapidly absorbed (median time to reach maximum plasma concentration ≤ 2.5 h [fasted]) with a mean half-life of about 22.0 h (range 17.9-27.0 h for single and multiple doses). No evidence for deviation from dose proportionality or unexpected accumulation was observed. Administration of vericiguat 5.0 mg IR tablets with food increased bioavailability by 19% (estimated ratio 119% [90% confidence interval]: 108; 131]), reduced PK variability, and prolonged vericiguat absorption relative to the fasted state. CONCLUSION In general, vericiguat was well tolerated. These results supported further clinical evaluation of vericiguat QD in patients with heart failure. REGISTRY NUMBERS EudraCT: 2011-001627-21; EudraCT: 2012-000953-30.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Boettcher
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Clinical PD CV, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Dirk Thomas
- Experimental Medicine, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Mueck
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Clinical PK CV, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany
| | | | - Erich Arens
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Clinical PD CV, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
- Im Straesschen, Monheim, Germany
| | - Kenichi Yoshikawa
- Clinical Sciences, Research & Development Japan, Bayer Yakuhin, Ltd, Osaka, Japan
| | - Corina Becker
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Clinical PD CV, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany.
- Research & Development, Pharmaceuticals, Clinical PK CV, Bayer AG, Aprather Weg 18a, 42113, Wuppertal, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
McCarty MF. Nutraceutical, Dietary, and Lifestyle Options for Prevention and Treatment of Ventricular Hypertrophy and Heart Failure. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073321. [PMID: 33805039 PMCID: PMC8037104 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although well documented drug therapies are available for the management of ventricular hypertrophy (VH) and heart failure (HF), most patients nonetheless experience a downhill course, and further therapeutic measures are needed. Nutraceutical, dietary, and lifestyle measures may have particular merit in this regard, as they are currently available, relatively safe and inexpensive, and can lend themselves to primary prevention as well. A consideration of the pathogenic mechanisms underlying the VH/HF syndrome suggests that measures which control oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, that support effective nitric oxide and hydrogen sulfide bioactivity, that prevent a reduction in cardiomyocyte pH, and that boost the production of protective hormones, such as fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), while suppressing fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) and marinobufagenin, may have utility for preventing and controlling this syndrome. Agents considered in this essay include phycocyanobilin, N-acetylcysteine, lipoic acid, ferulic acid, zinc, selenium, ubiquinol, astaxanthin, melatonin, tauroursodeoxycholic acid, berberine, citrulline, high-dose folate, cocoa flavanols, hawthorn extract, dietary nitrate, high-dose biotin, soy isoflavones, taurine, carnitine, magnesium orotate, EPA-rich fish oil, glycine, and copper. The potential advantages of whole-food plant-based diets, moderation in salt intake, avoidance of phosphate additives, and regular exercise training and sauna sessions are also discussed. There should be considerable scope for the development of functional foods and supplements which make it more convenient and affordable for patients to consume complementary combinations of the agents discussed here. Research Strategy: Key word searching of PubMed was employed to locate the research papers whose findings are cited in this essay.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark F McCarty
- Catalytic Longevity Foundation, 811 B Nahant Ct., San Diego, CA 92109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Sandner P, Zimmer DP, Milne GT, Follmann M, Hobbs A, Stasch JP. Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Stimulators and Activators. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2021; 264:355-394. [PMID: 30689085 DOI: 10.1007/164_2018_197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
When Furchgott, Murad, and Ignarro were honored with the Nobel prize for the identification of nitric oxide (NO) in 1998, the therapeutic implications of this discovery could not be fully anticipated. This was due to the fact that available therapeutics like NO donors did not allow a constant and long-lasting cyclic guanylyl monophosphate (cGMP) stimulation and had a narrow therapeutic window. Now, 20 years later, the stimulator of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC), riociguat, is on the market and is the only drug approved for the treatment of two forms of pulmonary hypertension (PAH/CTEPH), and a variety of other sGC stimulators and sGC activators are in preclinical and clinical development for additional indications. The discovery of sGC stimulators and sGC activators is a milestone in the field of NO/sGC/cGMP pharmacology. The sGC stimulators and sGC activators bind directly to reduced, heme-containing and oxidized, heme-free sGC, respectively, which results in an increase in cGMP production. The action of sGC stimulators at the heme-containing enzyme is independent of NO but is enhanced in the presence of NO whereas the sGC activators interact with the heme-free form of sGC. These highly innovative pharmacological principles of sGC stimulation and activation seem to have a very broad therapeutic potential. Therefore, in both academia and industry, intensive research and development efforts have been undertaken to fully exploit the therapeutic benefit of these new compound classes. Here we summarize the discovery of sGC stimulators and sGC activators and the current developments in both compound classes, including the mode of action, the chemical structures, and the genesis of the terminology and nomenclature. In addition, preclinical studies exploring multiple aspects of their in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo pharmacology are reviewed, providing an overview of multiple potential applications. Finally, the clinical developments, investigating the treatment potential of these compounds in various diseases like heart failure, diabetic kidney disease, fibrotic diseases, and hypertension, are reported. In summary, sGC stimulators and sGC activators have a unique mode of action with a broad treatment potential in cardiovascular diseases and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sandner
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, Wuppertal, Germany. .,Department of Pharmacology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
| | | | | | - Markus Follmann
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Adrian Hobbs
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry QMUL, London, UK
| | - Johannes-Peter Stasch
- Bayer AG, Pharmaceuticals R&D, Pharma Research Center, Wuppertal, Germany.,Institute of Pharmacy, University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
A Practical Risk Score for Prediction of Early Readmission after a First Episode of Acute Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11020198. [PMID: 33572844 PMCID: PMC7911435 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11020198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The first admission for acute heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) drastically influences the short-term prognosis. Baseline characteristics may predict repeat hospitalization or death in these patients. METHODS A 103 patient-cohort, admitted for the first acute HFpEF episode, was monitored for six months. Baseline characteristics were recorded and their relation to the primary outcome of heart failure readmission (HFR) and secondary outcome of all-cause mortality was assessed. RESULTS We identified six independent determinants for HFR: estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (p = 0.07), hemoglobin (p = 0.04), left ventricle end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) (p = 0.07), E/e' ratio (p = 0.004), left ventricle outflow tract velocity-time integral (LVOT VTI) (p = 0.045), and diabetes mellitus (p = 0.06). Three of the variables were used to generate a risk score for HFR: LVEDD, E/e', LVOT VTI -DEI Score = - 28.763 + 4.558 × log (LVEDD (mm)) + 1.961 × log (E/e' ratio) + 1.759 × log (LVOT VTI (cm)). Our model predicts a relative amount of 20.50% of HFR during the first 6 months after the first acute hospitalization within the general population with HFpEF with a DEI Score over -0.747. CONCLUSIONS We have identified three echocardiographic parameters (LVEDD, E/e', and LVOT VTI) that predict HFR following an initial acute HFpEF hospitalization. The prognostic DEI score demonstrated good accuracy.
Collapse
|
35
|
Rüdebusch J, Benkner A, Nath N, Fleuch L, Kaderali L, Grube K, Klingel K, Eckstein G, Meitinger T, Fielitz J, Felix SB. Stimulation of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) by riociguat attenuates heart failure and pathological cardiac remodelling. Br J Pharmacol 2020; 179:2430-2442. [PMID: 33247945 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Heart failure is associated with an impaired NO-soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC)-cGMP pathway and its augmentation is thought to be beneficial for its therapy. We hypothesized that stimulation of sGC by the sGC stimulator riociguat prevents pathological cardiac remodelling and heart failure in response to chronic pressure overload. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Transverse aortic constriction or sham surgery was performed in C57BL/6N mice. After 3 weeks of transverse aortic constriction when heart failure was established, animals receive either riociguat or its vehicle for 5 additional weeks. Cardiac function was evaluated weekly by echocardiography. Eight weeks after surgery, histological analyses were performed to evaluate remodelling and the transcriptome of the left ventricles (LVs) was analysed by RNA sequencing. Cell culture experiments were used for mechanistically studies. KEY RESULTS Transverse aortic constriction resulted in a continuous decrease of LV ejection fraction and an increase in LV mass until week 3. Five weeks of riociguat treatment resulted in an improved LV ejection fraction and a decrease in the ratio of left ventricular mass to total body weight (LVM/BW), myocardial fibrosis and myocyte cross-sectional area. RNA sequencing revealed that riociguat reduced the expression of myocardial stress and remodelling genes (e.g. Nppa, Nppb, Myh7 and collagen) and attenuated the activation of biological pathways associated with cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Riociguat reversed pathological stress response in cultivated myocytes and fibroblasts. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS Stimulation of the sGC reverses transverse aortic constriction-induced heart failure and remodelling, which is associated with improved myocardial gene expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rüdebusch
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany
| | - Alexander Benkner
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany
| | - Neetika Nath
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Lina Fleuch
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany
| | - Lars Kaderali
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany.,Institute of Bioinformatics, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Karina Grube
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany
| | - Karin Klingel
- Cardiopathology, Institute for Pathology, University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Gertrud Eckstein
- Institute of Human Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Meitinger
- Institute of Human Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Jens Fielitz
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany
| | - Stephan B Felix
- Department of Internal Medicine B, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany.,DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research, partner site Greifswald), Greifswald, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Pieske B, Tschöpe C, de Boer RA, Fraser AG, Anker SD, Donal E, Edelmann F, Fu M, Guazzi M, Lam CSP, Lancellotti P, Melenovsky V, Morris DA, Nagel E, Pieske-Kraigher E, Ponikowski P, Solomon SD, Vasan RS, Rutten FH, Voors AA, Ruschitzka F, Paulus WJ, Seferovic P, Filippatos G. How to diagnose heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm: a consensus recommendation from the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Eur Heart J 2020; 40:3297-3317. [PMID: 31504452 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehz641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 806] [Impact Index Per Article: 201.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Making a firm diagnosis of chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains a challenge. We recommend a new stepwise diagnostic process, the 'HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm'. Step 1 (P=Pre-test assessment) is typically performed in the ambulatory setting and includes assessment for HF symptoms and signs, typical clinical demographics (obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, elderly, atrial fibrillation), and diagnostic laboratory tests, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. In the absence of overt non-cardiac causes of breathlessness, HFpEF can be suspected if there is a normal left ventricular ejection fraction, no significant heart valve disease or cardiac ischaemia, and at least one typical risk factor. Elevated natriuretic peptides support, but normal levels do not exclude a diagnosis of HFpEF. The second step (E: Echocardiography and Natriuretic Peptide Score) requires comprehensive echocardiography and is typically performed by a cardiologist. Measures include mitral annular early diastolic velocity (e'), left ventricular (LV) filling pressure estimated using E/e', left atrial volume index, LV mass index, LV relative wall thickness, tricuspid regurgitation velocity, LV global longitudinal systolic strain, and serum natriuretic peptide levels. Major (2 points) and Minor (1 point) criteria were defined from these measures. A score ≥5 points implies definite HFpEF; ≤1 point makes HFpEF unlikely. An intermediate score (2-4 points) implies diagnostic uncertainty, in which case Step 3 (F1: Functional testing) is recommended with echocardiographic or invasive haemodynamic exercise stress tests. Step 4 (F2: Final aetiology) is recommended to establish a possible specific cause of HFpEF or alternative explanations. Further research is needed for a better classification of HFpEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burkert Pieske
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Germany
| | - Carsten Tschöpe
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charite, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rudolf A de Boer
- University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Stefan D Anker
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charite, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medicine Göttingen (UMG), Germany
| | - Erwan Donal
- Cardiology and CIC, IT1414, CHU de Rennes LTSI, Université Rennes-1, INSERM 1099, Rennes, France
| | - Frank Edelmann
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany
| | - Michael Fu
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hosptal/Ostra, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Marco Guazzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Cardiology, IRCCS Policlinico, San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy
| | - Carolyn S P Lam
- National Heart Centre, Singapore & Duke-National University of Singapore.,University Medical Centre Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Patrizio Lancellotti
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Valve Clinic, University of Liège Hospital, GIGA Cardiovascular Sciences, CHU Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium
| | - Vojtech Melenovsky
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine - IKEM, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel A Morris
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum
| | - Eike Nagel
- Institute for Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, University Hospital Frankfurt.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Pieske-Kraigher
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum
| | | | - Scott D Solomon
- Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ramachandran S Vasan
- Section of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frans H Rutten
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Adriaan A Voors
- University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Frank Ruschitzka
- University Heart Centre, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Walter J Paulus
- Department of Physiology and Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Petar Seferovic
- University of Belgrade School of Medicine, Belgrade University Medical Center, Serbia
| | - Gerasimos Filippatos
- Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School; University Hospital "Attikon", Athens, Greece.,University of Cyprus, School of Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, atrial fibrillation, and increased NT‑proBNP levels : An emergent clinical dilemma. Herz 2020; 46:191-197. [PMID: 32997152 DOI: 10.1007/s00059-020-04981-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The co-presence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) may cause some diagnostic difficulties, because AF itself is associated with elevated levels of N‑terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP). In the present study we aimed to investigate NT-proBNP levels of patients with HFpEF and AF. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study. Outpatient data were reviewed through the hospital data management system. Consecutive patients with the diagnosis of HFpEF and AF, who had at least one NT-proBNP measurement, were included in the study. RESULTS The study population comprised 235 patients. Median NT-proBNP levels were 1242 pg/ml in the stable phase and 2321.5 pg/ml during decompensation. NT-proBNP was correlated positively with age, CHA2DS2 and CHA2DS2VASc scores, left atrial diameter (LAD), tricuspid annulus diameter, and systolic pulmonary artery pressure but negatively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and hemoglobin level. The change in NT-proBNP was positively correlated with heart rate and LAD. CONCLUSION Patients with HFpEF and AF have higher levels of NT-proBNP, which may exceed the upper limits defined in guidelines. This study underlines the importance of measuring NT-proBNP levels in the stable phase and proposes a rule-in level for the decompensated phase.
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To review the shared pathology of atrial fibrillation and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and the prognostic, diagnostic, and treatment challenges incurred by the co-occurrence of these increasingly prevalent diseases. RECENT FINDINGS Multiple risk factors and mechanisms have been proposed as potentially linking atrial fibrillation and HFpEF, with systemic inflammation more recently being invoked. Nonvitamin K oral anticoagulants, left atrial appendage occlusion devices, and catheter ablation have emerged as alternative treatment options. Other novel pharmacological agents, such as neprilysin inhibitors, need to be studied further in this patient population. SUMMARY Atrial fibrillation and HFpEF commonly co-occur because of their shared risk factors and pathophysiology and incur increased morbidity and mortality relative to either condition alone. Although the presence of both diseases can often make each diagnosis difficult, it is important to do so early in the disease course as there are now a variety of treatment options aimed at improving symptoms and quality of life, slowing disease progression, and improving prognosis. However, more research needs to be performed on the role of catheter ablation in this population. Novel pharmacologic and procedural treatment options appear promising and may further improve the treatment options available to this growing population.
Collapse
|
39
|
Frydas A, Morris DA, Belyavskiy E, Radhakrishnan AK, Kropf M, Tadic M, Roessig L, Lam CSP, Shah SJ, Solomon SD, Pieske B, Pieske-Kraigher E. Left atrial strain as sensitive marker of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in heart failure. ESC Heart Fail 2020; 7:1956-1965. [PMID: 32613770 PMCID: PMC7373910 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.12820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The purpose of this retrospective analysis was to examine the association of left atrial (LA) strain (i.e. LA reservoir function) with left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (DD) in patients with heart failure with reduced and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Methods and results We analysed the baseline echocardiographic recordings of 300 patients in sinus rhythm from the SOCRATES‐PRESERVED and SOCRATES‐REDUCED studies. LA volume index was normal in 89 (29.7%), of whom 60.6% had an abnormal LA reservoir strain (i.e. ≤23%). In addition, the extent of LA strain impairment was significantly associated with the severity of DD according to the 2016 American Society of Echocardiography recommendations (DD grade I: LA strain 22.2 ± 6.6, rate of abnormal LA strain 62.9%; DD grade II: LA strain 16.6 ± 7.4, rate of abnormal LA strain 88.6%; DD grade III: LA strain 11.1 ± 5.4%, rate of abnormal LA strain 95.7%; all P < 0.01). In line with these findings, LA strain had a good diagnostic performance to determine severe DD [area under the curve 0.83 (95% CI 0.77–0.88), cut‐off 14.1%, sensitivity 80%, specificity 77.8%], which was significantly better than for LA volume index, LA total emptying fraction, and the mitral E/e′ ratio. Conclusions The findings of this analysis suggest that LA strain could be a useful parameter in the evaluation of DD in patients with heart failure and sinus rhythm, irrespective of LVEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Athanasios Frydas
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel A Morris
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Evgeny Belyavskiy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Aravind-Kumar Radhakrishnan
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Kropf
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany
| | - Marijana Tadic
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany
| | | | - Carolyn S P Lam
- National Heart Centre, Singapore.,Department of Cardiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.,Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore
| | - Sanjiv J Shah
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Burkert Pieske
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, German Heart Center Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Pieske-Kraigher
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité University Medicine (Campus Virchow Klinikum), Augustenburger Platz 1, Berlin, 13353, Germany.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Contrasting Effects of Inhibition of Phosphodiesterase 3 and 5 on Cardiac Function and Interstitial Fibrosis in Rats With Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiac Dysfunction. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2020; 73:195-205. [PMID: 30839513 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000000652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Myocardial relaxation and stiffness are influenced by fibrillar collagen content. Cyclic nucleotide signaling regulators have been investigated targeting more effective modulation of collagen deposition during myocardial healing process. To assess the effects of phosphodiesterase type 3 and phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors on cardiac function and left ventricular myocardial fibrosis in catecholamine-induced myocardial injury, sildenafil and pimobendan were administered to male Wistar rats 24 hours after isoproterenol injection. Echocardiography and electrocardiogram were performed to assess kinetic and rhythm changes during 45 days of drug administration. At the end of study, type I and type III collagen were measured through immunohistochemistry analysis, and left ventricular pressure was assessed through invasive method. Echocardiography assessment showed increased relative wall thickness at 45 days in pimobendan group with significant diastolic dysfunction and increased collagen I deposition compared with nontreated positive group (3.03 ± 0.31 vs. 2.73 ± 0.28%, P < 0.05). Diastolic pressure correlated positively with type I collagen (r = 0.54, P < 0.05). Type III collagen analysis did not demonstrate difference among the groups. Sildenafil administration attenuated type I collagen deposition (2.15 ± 0.51 vs. positive group, P < 0.05) and suggested to be related to arrhythmic events. Arrhythmic events were not related to the quantity of fibrillar collagen deposition. Although negative modulation of collagen synthesis through cyclic nucleotides signaling have shown promising results, in this study, pimobendan postconditioning resulted in increased collagen type I formation and severe diastolic dysfunction while sildenafil postconditioning reduced collagen type I deposition and attenuated diastolic dysfunction.
Collapse
|
41
|
Kramer F, Voss S, Roessig L, Igl BW, Butler J, Lam CSP, Maggioni AP, Shah SJ, Pieske B. Evaluation of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and uric acid in vericiguat-treated patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Eur J Heart Fail 2020; 22:1675-1683. [PMID: 32216011 PMCID: PMC7687153 DOI: 10.1002/ejhf.1787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The effects of vericiguat vs. placebo on high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) and serum uric acid (SUA) were assessed in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in the Phase 2 SOCRATES‐REDUCED study (NCT01951625). Methods and results Changes from baseline hsCRP and SUA values at 12 weeks with placebo and vericiguat (1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5.0 mg and 10.0 mg, respectively) were assessed. The probability of achieving an hsCRP value of ≤3.0 mg/L or SUA value of <7.0 mg/dL at week 12 was tested. Median baseline hsCRP and SUA levels were 3.68 mg/L [interquartile range (IQR) 1.41–8.41; n = 335] and 7.80 mg/dL (IQR 6.40–9.33; n = 348), respectively. Baseline‐adjusted mean percentage changes in hsCRP were 0.2%, −19.5%, −24.3%, −25.7% and −31.9% in the placebo and vericiguat 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5.0 mg and 10.0 mg groups, respectively; significance vs. placebo was observed in the vericiguat 10.0 mg group (P = 0.035). Baseline‐adjusted mean percentage changes in SUA were 5.0%, −1.3%, −1.1%, −3.5% and −5.3% in the placebo, and vericiguat 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5.0 mg and 10.0 mg groups, respectively; significance vs. placebo was observed in the 5.0 mg and 10.0 mg groups (P = 0.0202 and P = 0.004, respectively). Estimated probability for an end‐of‐treatment hsCRP value of ≤3.0 mg/L and SUA value of <7.0 mg/dL was higher with vericiguat compared with placebo. The effect was dose‐dependent, with the greatest effect observed in the 10.0 mg group. Conclusions Vericiguat treatment for 12 weeks was associated with reductions in hsCRP and SUA, and a higher likelihood of achieving an hsCRP value of ≤3.0 mg/L and SUA value of <7.0 mg/dL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Frank Kramer
- Medical Devices and eHealth Clinical, Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Javed Butler
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA
| | - Carolyn S P Lam
- National Heart Centre and Duke University-National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.,University Medical Centre Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands.,The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Aldo P Maggioni
- Italian Association of Hospital Cardiologists (ANMCO) Research Centre, Florence, Italy
| | - Sanjiv J Shah
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Burkert Pieske
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Campus Virchow Klinikum, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,German Heart Centre Berlin (DHZB), Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Pieske B, Tschöpe C, de Boer RA, Fraser AG, Anker SD, Donal E, Edelmann F, Fu M, Guazzi M, Lam CSP, Lancellotti P, Melenovsky V, Morris DA, Nagel E, Pieske-Kraigher E, Ponikowski P, Solomon SD, Vasan RS, Rutten FH, Voors AA, Ruschitzka F, Paulus WJ, Seferovic P, Filippatos G. How to diagnose heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm: a consensus recommendation from the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Eur J Heart Fail 2020; 22:391-412. [PMID: 32133741 DOI: 10.1002/ejhf.1741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 180] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2018] [Revised: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Making a firm diagnosis of chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains a challenge. We recommend a new stepwise diagnostic process, the 'HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm'. Step 1 (P=Pre-test assessment) is typically performed in the ambulatory setting and includes assessment for heart failure symptoms and signs, typical clinical demographics (obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, elderly, atrial fibrillation), and diagnostic laboratory tests, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. In the absence of overt non-cardiac causes of breathlessness, HFpEF can be suspected if there is a normal left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, no significant heart valve disease or cardiac ischaemia, and at least one typical risk factor. Elevated natriuretic peptides support, but normal levels do not exclude a diagnosis of HFpEF. The second step (E: Echocardiography and Natriuretic Peptide Score) requires comprehensive echocardiography and is typically performed by a cardiologist. Measures include mitral annular early diastolic velocity (e'), LV filling pressure estimated using E/e', left atrial volume index, LV mass index, LV relative wall thickness, tricuspid regurgitation velocity, LV global longitudinal systolic strain, and serum natriuretic peptide levels. Major (2 points) and Minor (1 point) criteria were defined from these measures. A score ≥5 points implies definite HFpEF; ≤1 point makes HFpEF unlikely. An intermediate score (2-4 points) implies diagnostic uncertainty, in which case Step 3 (F1 : Functional testing) is recommended with echocardiographic or invasive haemodynamic exercise stress tests. Step 4 (F2 : Final aetiology) is recommended to establish a possible specific cause of HFpEF or alternative explanations. Further research is needed for a better classification of HFpEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Burkert Pieske
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany.,Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, German Heart Institute, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Germany
| | - Carsten Tschöpe
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charite, Berlin, Germany
| | - Rudolf A de Boer
- University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | | | - Stefan D Anker
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH) Center for Regenerative Therapies (BCRT), Charite, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, University Medicine Göttingen (UMG), Germany
| | - Erwan Donal
- Cardiology and CIC, IT1414, CHU de Rennes LTSI, Université Rennes-1, INSERM 1099, Rennes, France
| | - Frank Edelmann
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum.,German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Berlin, Partner Site, Germany
| | - Michael Fu
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hosptal/Ostra, Göteborg, Sweden
| | - Marco Guazzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, University of Milan, IRCCS, Milan, Italy.,Department of Cardiology, IRCCS Policlinico, San Donato Milanese, Milan, Italy
| | - Carolyn S P Lam
- National Heart Centre, Singapore & Duke-National University of Singapore.,University Medical Centre Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Patrizio Lancellotti
- Department of Cardiology, Heart Valve Clinic, University of Liège Hospital, GIGA Cardiovascular Sciences, CHU Sart Tilman, Liège, Belgium
| | - Vojtech Melenovsky
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine - IKEM, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel A Morris
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum
| | - Eike Nagel
- Institute for Experimental and Translational Cardiovascular Imaging, University Hospital Frankfurt.,German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Pieske-Kraigher
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Virchow Klinikum
| | | | - Scott D Solomon
- Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ramachandran S Vasan
- Section of Preventive Medicine and Epidemiology and Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Frans H Rutten
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Adriaan A Voors
- University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Department of Cardiology, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Frank Ruschitzka
- University Heart Centre, University Hospital Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Walter J Paulus
- Department of Physiology and Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - Petar Seferovic
- University of Belgrade School of Medicine, Belgrade University Medical Center, Serbia
| | - Gerasimos Filippatos
- Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Medical School; University Hospital "Attikon", Athens, Greece.,University of Cyprus, School of Medicine, Nicosia, Cyprus
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Xiao S, Li Q, Hu L, Yu Z, Yang J, Chang Q, Chen Z, Hu G. Soluble Guanylate Cyclase Stimulators and Activators: Where are We and Where to Go? Mini Rev Med Chem 2019; 19:1544-1557. [PMID: 31362687 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666190730110600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 04/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Soluble Guanylate Cyclase (sGC) is the intracellular receptor of Nitric Oxide (NO). The activation of sGC results in the conversion of Guanosine Triphosphate (GTP) to the secondary messenger cyclic Guanosine Monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP modulates a series of downstream cascades through activating a variety of effectors, such as Phosphodiesterase (PDE), Protein Kinase G (PKG) and Cyclic Nucleotide-Gated Ion Channels (CNG). NO-sGC-cGMP pathway plays significant roles in various physiological processes, including platelet aggregation, smooth muscle relaxation and neurotransmitter delivery. With the approval of an sGC stimulator Riociguat for the treatment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH), the enthusiasm in the discovery of sGC modulators continues for broad clinical applications. Notably, through activating the NO-sGC-cGMP pathway, sGC stimulator and activator potentiate for the treatment of various diseases, such as PAH, Heart Failure (HF), Diabetic Nephropathy (DN), Systemic Sclerosis (SS), fibrosis as well as other diseases including Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) and Central Nervous System (CNS) disease. Here, we review the preclinical and clinical studies of sGC stimulator and activator in recent years and prospect for the development of sGC modulators in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sijia Xiao
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Qianbin Li
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Liqing Hu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Zutao Yu
- Department of Chemistry, Graduate School of Science Kyoto University Kitashirakawa- Oiwakecho, Sakyo-Ku, kyoto, Japan
| | - Jie Yang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Qi Chang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Zhuo Chen
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Gaoyun Hu
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Xiangya School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Abi-Gerges N, Miller PE, Ghetti A. Human Heart Cardiomyocytes in Drug Discovery and Research: New Opportunities in Translational Sciences. Curr Pharm Biotechnol 2019; 21:787-806. [PMID: 31820682 DOI: 10.2174/1389201021666191210142023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In preclinical drug development, accurate prediction of drug effects on the human heart is critically important, whether in the context of cardiovascular safety or for the purpose of modulating cardiac function to treat heart disease. Current strategies have significant limitations, whereby, cardiotoxic drugs can escape detection or potential life-saving therapies are abandoned due to false positive toxicity signals. Thus, new and more reliable translational approaches are urgently needed to help accelerate the rate of new therapy development. Renewed efforts in the recovery of human donor hearts for research and in cardiomyocyte isolation methods, are providing new opportunities for preclinical studies in adult primary cardiomyocytes. These cells exhibit the native physiological and pharmacological properties, overcoming the limitations presented by artificial cellular models, animal models and have great potential for providing an excellent tool for preclinical drug testing. Adult human primary cardiomyocytes have already shown utility in assessing drug-induced cardiotoxicity risk and helping in the identification of new treatments for cardiac diseases, such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation. Finally, strategies with actionable decision-making trees that rely on data derived from adult human primary cardiomyocytes will provide the holistic insights necessary to accurately predict human heart effects of drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Najah Abi-Gerges
- AnaBios Corporation, 3030 Bunker Hill St., Suite 312, San Diego, CA 92109, United States
| | - Paul E Miller
- AnaBios Corporation, 3030 Bunker Hill St., Suite 312, San Diego, CA 92109, United States
| | - Andre Ghetti
- AnaBios Corporation, 3030 Bunker Hill St., Suite 312, San Diego, CA 92109, United States
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Belletti A, Landoni G, Lomivorotov VV, Oriani A, Ajello S. Adrenergic Downregulation in Critical Care: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Evidence. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2019; 34:1023-1041. [PMID: 31839459 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2019.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Catecholamines remain the mainstay of therapy for acute cardiovascular dysfunction. However, adrenergic receptors quickly undergo desensitization and downregulation after prolonged stimulation. Moreover, prolonged exposure to high circulating catecholamines levels is associated with several adverse effects on different organ systems. Unfortunately, in critically ill patients, adrenergic downregulation translates into progressive reduction of cardiovascular response to exogenous catecholamine administration, leading to refractory shock. Accordingly, there has been a growing interest in recent years toward use of noncatecholaminergic inotropes and vasopressors. Several studies investigating a wide variety of catecholamine-sparing strategies (eg, levosimendan, vasopressin, β-blockers, steroids, and use of mechanical circulatory support) have been published recently. Use of these agents was associated with improvement in hemodynamics and decreased catecholamine use but without a clear beneficial effect on major clinical outcomes. Accordingly, additional research is needed to define the optimal management of catecholamine-resistant shock.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Belletti
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Landoni
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy; Vita-Salute San Raffaele University, Milan, Italy
| | - Vladimir V Lomivorotov
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, E. Meshalkin National Medical Research Center, Novosibirsk, Russia; Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alessandro Oriani
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Silvia Ajello
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Tsutsui H, Isobe M, Ito H, Ito H, Okumura K, Ono M, Kitakaze M, Kinugawa K, Kihara Y, Goto Y, Komuro I, Saiki Y, Saito Y, Sakata Y, Sato N, Sawa Y, Shiose A, Shimizu W, Shimokawa H, Seino Y, Node K, Higo T, Hirayama A, Makaya M, Masuyama T, Murohara T, Momomura SI, Yano M, Yamazaki K, Yamamoto K, Yoshikawa T, Yoshimura M, Akiyama M, Anzai T, Ishihara S, Inomata T, Imamura T, Iwasaki YK, Ohtani T, Onishi K, Kasai T, Kato M, Kawai M, Kinugasa Y, Kinugawa S, Kuratani T, Kobayashi S, Sakata Y, Tanaka A, Toda K, Noda T, Nochioka K, Hatano M, Hidaka T, Fujino T, Makita S, Yamaguchi O, Ikeda U, Kimura T, Kohsaka S, Kosuge M, Yamagishi M, Yamashina A. JCS 2017/JHFS 2017 Guideline on Diagnosis and Treatment of Acute and Chronic Heart Failure - Digest Version. Circ J 2019; 83:2084-2184. [PMID: 31511439 DOI: 10.1253/circj.cj-19-0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 409] [Impact Index Per Article: 81.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Tsutsui
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | | | - Hiroshi Ito
- Department of Cardiovascular and Respiratory Medicine, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Hiroshi Ito
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Division of Biophysiological Sciences, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
| | - Ken Okumura
- Division of Cardiology, Saiseikai Kumamoto Hospital Cardiovascular Center
| | - Minoru Ono
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo
| | - Masafumi Kitakaze
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Development, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | | | - Yasuki Kihara
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University
| | | | - Issei Komuro
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo
| | - Yoshikatsu Saiki
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Yoshihiko Saito
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nara Medical University
| | - Yasushi Sakata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Naoki Sato
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kawaguchi Cardiovascular and Respiratory Hospital
| | - Yoshiki Sawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Akira Shiose
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Wataru Shimizu
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nippon Medical School
| | - Hiroaki Shimokawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Koichi Node
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Saga University
| | - Taiki Higo
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Atsushi Hirayama
- The Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Nihon University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Tohru Masuyama
- Cardiovascular Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Hyogo College of Medicine
| | - Toyoaki Murohara
- Department of Cardiology, Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Masafumi Yano
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Kenji Yamazaki
- Department of Cardiology Surgery, Tokyo Women's Medical University
| | - Kazuhiro Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University
| | | | - Michihiro Yoshimura
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine
| | - Masatoshi Akiyama
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Toshihisa Anzai
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Shiro Ishihara
- Department of Cardiology, Nippon Medical School Musashi-Kosugi Hospital
| | - Takayuki Inomata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Kitasato University Kitasato Institute Hospital
| | | | - Yu-Ki Iwasaki
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nippon Medical School
| | - Tomohito Ohtani
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Takatoshi Kasai
- Cardiovascular Respiratory Sleep Medicine, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Mahoto Kato
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Nihon University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Makoto Kawai
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Jikei University School of Medicine
| | | | - Shintaro Kinugawa
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Toru Kuratani
- Department of Minimally Invasive Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Shigeki Kobayashi
- Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Yasuhiko Sakata
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Koichi Toda
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Takashi Noda
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center
| | - Kotaro Nochioka
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Masaru Hatano
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, The University of Tokyo Hospital
| | | | - Takeo Fujino
- Department of Advanced Cardiopulmonary Failure, Kyushu University Graduate School of Medical Sciences
| | - Shigeru Makita
- Department of Cardiac Rehabilitation, Saitama Medical University International Medical Center
| | - Osamu Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
| | | | - Takeshi Kimura
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University
| | - Shun Kohsaka
- Department of Cardiology, Keio University School of Medicine
| | - Masami Kosuge
- Division of Cardiology, Yokohama City University Medical Center
| | - Masakazu Yamagishi
- Department of Cardiovascular and Internal Medicine, Kanazawa University Graduate School of Medicine
| | - Akira Yamashina
- Medical Education Promotion Center, Tokyo Medical University
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Makrynitsa GI, Zompra AA, Argyriou AI, Spyroulias GA, Topouzis S. Therapeutic Targeting of the Soluble Guanylate Cyclase. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:2730-2747. [PMID: 30621555 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190108095851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) is the physiological sensor for nitric oxide and alterations of its function are actively implicated in a wide variety of pathophysiological conditions. Intense research efforts over the past 20 years have provided significant information on its regulation, culminating in the rational development of approved drugs or investigational lead molecules, which target and interact with sGC through novel mechanisms. However, there are numerous questions that remain unanswered. Ongoing investigations, with the critical aid of structural chemistry studies, try to further elucidate the enzyme's structural characteristics that define the association of "stimulators" or "activators" of sGC in the presence or absence of the heme moiety, respectively, as well as the precise conformational attributes that will allow the design of more innovative and effective drugs. This review relates the progress achieved, particularly in the past 10 years, in understanding the function of this enzyme, and focusses on a) the rationale and results of its therapeutic targeting in disease situations, depending on the state of enzyme (oxidized or not, heme-carrying or not) and b) the most recent structural studies, which should permit improved design of future therapeutic molecules that aim to directly upregulate the activity of sGC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Aikaterini A Zompra
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Rio, 26505, Greece
| | - Aikaterini I Argyriou
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Rio, 26505, Greece
| | - Georgios A Spyroulias
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Rio, 26505, Greece
| | - Stavros Topouzis
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Patras, Rio, 26505, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Tanase DM, Radu S, Al Shurbaji S, Baroi GL, Florida Costea C, Turliuc MD, Ouatu A, Floria M. Natriuretic Peptides in Heart Failure with Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction: From Molecular Evidences to Clinical Implications. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2629. [PMID: 31142058 PMCID: PMC6600439 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20112629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The incidence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is increasing and its challenging diagnosis and management combines clinical, imagistic and biological data. Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are hormones secreted in response to myocardial stretch that, by increasing cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), counteract myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy, increase natriuresis and determine vasodilatation. While their role in HFpEF is controversial, most authors focused on b-type natriuretic peptides (BNPs) and agreed that patients may show lower levels. In this setting, newer molecules with an increased specificity, such as middle-region pro-atrial natriuretic peptide (MR-proANP), emerged as promising markers. Augmenting NP levels, either by NP analogs or breakdown inhibition, could offer a new therapeutic target in HFpEF (already approved in their reduced EF counterparts) by increasing the deficient cGMP levels found in patients. Importantly, these peptides also retain their prognostic value. This narrative review focuses on NPs' physiology, diagnosis, therapeutic and prognostic implication in HFpEF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Maria Tanase
- Department of Internal Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700111 Iasi, Romania.
- Internal Medicine Clinic, "Sf. Spiridon" County Clinical Emergency Hospital Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
| | - Smaranda Radu
- Department of Internal Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700111 Iasi, Romania.
- Cardiology Clinic, "Prof. Dr. George I.M. Georgescu" Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, 700503 Iasi, Romania.
| | - Sinziana Al Shurbaji
- Department of Internal Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700111 Iasi, Romania.
- Institute of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
| | - Genoveva Livia Baroi
- Department of Surgery, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700111 Iasi, Romania.
- Vascular Surgery Clinic, "Sf. Spiridon" County Clinical Emergency Hospital Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
| | - Claudia Florida Costea
- Department of Ophthalmology, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
- 2nd Ophthalmology Clinic, "Prof. Dr. Nicolae Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700115 Iași, Romania.
| | - Mihaela Dana Turliuc
- Department of Neurosurgery, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania.
- 2nd Neurosurgery Clinic, "Prof. Dr. Nicolae Oblu" Emergency Clinical Hospital, 700115 Iași, Romania.
| | - Anca Ouatu
- Department of Internal Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700111 Iasi, Romania.
- Internal Medicine Clinic, "Sf. Spiridon" County Clinical Emergency Hospital Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
| | - Mariana Floria
- Department of Internal Medicine, "Grigore T. Popa" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700111 Iasi, Romania.
- Internal Medicine Clinic, "Sf. Spiridon" County Clinical Emergency Hospital Iasi, 700115 Iasi, Romania.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Silverman DN, Shah SJ. Treatment of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF): the Phenotype-Guided Approach. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN CARDIOVASCULAR MEDICINE 2019; 21:20. [DOI: 10.1007/s11936-019-0709-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
50
|
Sandner P. From molecules to patients: exploring the therapeutic role of soluble guanylate cyclase stimulators. Biol Chem 2019; 399:679-690. [PMID: 29604206 DOI: 10.1515/hsz-2018-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) signaling represents one of the major regulatory pathways for cardiovascular function. After the discovery of NO, awarded with the Nobel Prize in 1998, this signaling cascade was stepwise clarified. We now have a good understanding of NO production and NO downstream targets such as the soluble guanylyl cyclases (sGCs) which catalyze cGMP production. Based on the important role of NO-signaling in the cardiovascular system, intense research and development efforts are currently ongoing to fully exploit the therapeutic potential of cGMP increase. Recently, NO-independent stimulators of sGC (sGC stimulators) were discovered and characterized. This new compound class has a unique mode of action, directly binding to sGC and triggering cGMP production. The first sGC stimulator made available to patients is riociguat, which was approved in 2013 for the treatment of different forms of pulmonary hypertension (PH). Besides riociguat, other sGC stimulators are in clinical development, with vericiguat in phase 3 clinical development for the treatment of chronic heart failure (HF). Based on the broad impact of NO/cGMP signaling, sGC stimulators could have an even broader therapeutic potential beyond PH and HF. Within this review, the NO/sGC/cGMP/PKG/PDE-signaling cascade and the major pharmacological intervention sites are described. In addition, the discovery and mode of action of sGC stimulators and the clinical development in PH and HF is covered. Finally, the preclinical and clinical evidence and treatment approaches for sGC stimulators beyond these indications and the cardiovascular disease space, like in fibrotic diseases as in systemic sclerosis (SSc), are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Sandner
- Bayer AG, Drug-Discovery, Pharma Research Center Wuppertal, Aprather Weg 18a, D-42069 Wuppertal, Germany.,Hannover Medical School, Department of Pharmacology, Hannover, Germany
| |
Collapse
|