The novel adipokine CTRP1 is significantly associated with the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events

Recent progress in unraveling cardiovascular complications associated with primary aldosteronism: a succinct review

This comprehensive review offers a thorough exploration of recent advancements in our understanding of the intricate cardiovascular complications associated with Primary Aldosteronism (PA). PA encompasses a spectrum of conditions characterized by hypertension and excessive production of aldosterone operating independently of the renin-angiotensin system. Given its association with an elevated risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications, as well as a higher incidence of metabolic syndrome in comparison to individuals with essential hypertension (EH), an accurate diagnosis of PA is of paramount importance. This review delves into the intricate interplay between PA and cardiovascular health and focuses on the key pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to adverse cardiac outcomes. The impact of different treatment modalities on cardiovascular health is also examined, offering insights into potential therapeutic approaches. By highlighting the significance of recognizing PA as a significant contributor to cardiovascular morbidity, this review emphasizes the need for improved screening, early diagnosis, and tailored management strategies to both enhance patient care and mitigate the burden of cardiovascular diseases. The findings presented herein underscore the growing importance of PA in the context of cardiovascular medicine and emphasize the potential for translating these insights into targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes.

Association of serum CTRP4 levels with vascular endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: CTRP4 ameliorating inflammation, proliferation and migration in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the correlation between serum C1q/TNF-related protein 4 (CTRP4) level and flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and evaluated the biological effects of CTRP4 on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

METHODS

A group of 165 patients diagnosed with T2DM were included in this study. Endothelial function was measured with the examination of brachial artery FMD. ELISA kit was used to measure the levels of CTRP4 in serum. HUVECs were stimulated with recombinant CTRP4 protein to assess its biological functions.

RESULTS

The levels of CTRP4 showed a significant variation among three groups based on FMD tertiles (p = 0.001). What's more, FMD had a significant difference among three CTRP4 tertile groups (p < 0.05) and was negatively related to serum CTRP4 levels (r = -0.270, p < 0.001). In T2DM patients, logistic regression analysis demonstrated that CTRP4 was the primary influence factor of low FMD (p < 0.01). In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the area under the curve of CTRP4 for predicting low FMD was 0.66 (95%CI 0.58-0.75). When stimulated HUVECs with recombinant CTRP4 protein, we found that CTRP4 could concentration-dependently ameliorate proliferation and migration of HUVECs in wounding healing and transwell assay. This protein could also decrease the expression of IL-6 and TNF-α and promote the release of NO in HUVEC supernatants, with suppression of NF-κB and STAT3 phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum CTRP4 concentrations were negatively associated with FMD. CTRP4 alleviated proliferation, migration and inflammation in HUVECs through the suppression of NF-κB and STAT3 signaling pathways.

Multi-faceted roles of C1q/TNF-related proteins family in atherosclerosis

Purpose of review

C1q/TNF-related proteins (CTRPs) are involved in the modulation of the development and prognosis of atherosclerosis (AS). Here, we summarizes the pathophysiological roles of individual members of the CTRP superfamily in the development of AS. Currently, there is no specific efficacious treatment for AS-related diseases, therefore it is urgent to develop novel therapeutic strategies aiming to target key molecules involved in AS.

Recent findings

Recently, mounting studies verified the critical roles of the CTRP family, including CTRP1-7, CTRP9 and CTRP11-15, in the development and progression of AS by influencing inflammatory response, modulating glucose and lipid metabolism, regulating endothelial functions and the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

Conclusions

CTRP family regulate different pathophysiology stages of AS. CTRP3, CTRP9, CTRP12, CTRP13 and CTRP15 play a clear protective role in AS, while CTRP5 and CTRP7 play a pro-atherosclerotic role in AS. The remarkable progress in our understanding of CTRPs' role in AS will provide an attractive therapeutic target for AS.

Cytokines and exosomal miRNAs in skeletal muscle-adipose crosstalk

Skeletal muscle and adipose tissues (ATs) are secretory organs that release secretory factors including cytokines and exosomes. These factors mediate muscle-adipose crosstalk to regulate systemic metabolism via paracrine and endocrine pathways. Myokines and adipokines are cytokines secreted by skeletal muscle and ATs, respectively. Exosomes loaded with nucleic acids, proteins, lipid droplets, and organelles can fuse with the cytoplasm of target cells to perform regulatory functions. A major regulatory component of exosomes is miRNA. In addition, numerous novel myokines and adipokines have been identified through technological innovations. These discoveries have identified new biomarkers and sparked new insights into the molecular regulation of skeletal muscle growth and adipose deposition. The knowledge may contribute to potential diagnostic and therapeutic targets in metabolic disease.

C1q/TNF-Related Proteins 1, 6 and 8 Are Involved in Corneal Epithelial Wound Closure by Targeting Relaxin Receptor RXFP1 In Vitro

Inadequate wound healing of ocular surface injuries can lead to permanent visual impairment. The relaxin ligand-receptor system has been demonstrated to promote corneal wound healing through increased cell migration and modulation of extracellular matrix formation. Recently, C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein (CTRP) 8 was identified as a novel interaction partner of relaxin receptor RXFP1. Additional data also suggest a role for CTRP1 and CTRP6 in RXFP1-mediated cAMP signaling. However, the role of CTRP1, CTRP6 and CTRP8 at the ocular surface remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the effects of CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 on epithelial ocular surface wound closure and their dependence on the RXFP1 receptor pathway. CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 expression was analyzed by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry in human tissues and cell lines derived from the ocular surface and lacrimal apparatus. In vitro ocular surface wound modeling was performed using scratch assays. We analyzed the effects of recombinant CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 on cell proliferation and migration in human corneal and conjunctival epithelial cell lines. Dependence on RXFP1 signaling was established by inhibiting ligand binding to RXFP1 using a specific anti-RXFP1 antibody. We detected the expression of CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 in human tissue samples of the cornea, conjunctiva, meibomian gland, efferent tear ducts, and lacrimal gland, as well as in human corneal, conjunctival, and meibomian gland epithelial cell lines. Scratch assays revealed a dose-dependent increase in the closure rate of surface defects in human corneal epithelial cells after treatment with CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8, but not in conjunctival epithelial cells. Inhibition of RXFP1 fully attenuated the effect of CTRP8 on the closure rate of surface defects in human corneal epithelial cells, whereas the CTRP1 and CTRP6 effects were not completely suppressed. Conclusions: Our findings demonstrate a novel role for CTRP1, CTRP6, and CTRP8 in corneal epithelial wound closure and suggest an involvement of the relaxin receptor RXFP1 signaling pathway. This could be a first step toward new approaches for pharmacological and therapeutic intervention.

CTRP1: A novel player in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a series of diseases induced by inflammation and lipid metabolism disorders, among others. Metabolic diseases can cause inflammation and abnormal lipid metabolism. C1q/TNF-related proteins 1 (CTRP1) is a paralog of adiponectin that belongs to the CTRP subfamily. CTRP1 is expressed and secreted in adipocytes, macrophages, cardiomyocytes, and other cells. It promotes lipid and glucose metabolism but has bidirectional effects on the regulation of inflammation. Inflammation can also inversely stimulate CTRP1 production. A vicious circle may exist between the two. This article introduces CTRP1 from the structure, expression, and different roles of CTRP1 in CVDs and metabolic diseases, to summarize the role of CTRP1 pleiotropy. Moreover, the proteins which may interact with CTRP1 are predicted through GeneCards and STRING, speculating their effects, to provide new ideas for the study of CTRP1.

The Effect of Aldosterone on Cardiorenal and Metabolic Systems

Aldosterone, a vital hormone of the human body, has various pathophysiological roles. The excess of aldosterone, also known as primary aldosteronism, is the most common secondary cause of hypertension. Primary aldosteronism is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney dysfunction compared to essential hypertension. Excess aldosterone can lead to harmful metabolic and other pathophysiological alterations, as well as cause inflammatory, oxidative, and fibrotic effects in the heart, kidney, and blood vessels. These alterations can result in coronary artery disease, including ischemia and myocardial infarction, left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure, arterial fibrillation, intracarotid intima thickening, cerebrovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. Thus, aldosterone affects several tissues, especially in the cardiovascular system, and the metabolic and pathophysiological alterations are related to severe diseases. Therefore, understanding the effects of aldosterone on the body is important for health maintenance in hypertensive patients. In this review, we focus on currently available evidence regarding the role of aldosterone in alterations of the cardiovascular and renal systems. We also describe the risk of cardiovascular events and renal dysfunction in hyperaldosteronism.

CTRP1 prevents high fat diet-induced obesity and improves glucose homeostasis in obese and STZ-induced diabetic mice

BACKGROUND

C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein 1 (CTRP1) is an adipokine secreted by adipose tissue, related to chondrocyte proliferation, inflammation, and glucose homeostasis. However, the therapeutic effects on metabolic disorders and the underlying mechanism were unclear. Here, we investigated the functions and mechanisms of CTRP1 in treating obesity and diabetes.

METHODS

The plasmid containing human CTRP1 was delivered to mice by hydrodynamic injection, which sustained expression of CTRP1 in the liver and high protein level in the blood. High-fat diet (HFD) fed mice and STZ-induced diabetes model were used to study the effects of CTRP1 on obesity, glucose homeostasis, insulin resistance, and hepatic lipid accumulation. The lipid accumulation in liver and adipose tissue, glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, food intake, and energy expenditure were detected by H&E staining, Oil-Red O staining, glucose tolerance test, insulin tolerance test, and metabolic cage, respectively. The metabolic-related genes and signal pathways were determined using qPCR and western blotting.

RESULTS

With high blood circulation, CTRP1 prevented obesity, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and fatty liver in HFD-fed mice. CTRP1 also improved glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in obese and STZ-induced diabetic mice. The metabolic cage study revealed that CTRP1 reduced food intake and enhanced energy expenditure. The mechanistic study demonstrated that CTRP1 upregulated the protein level of leptin in blood, thermogenic gene expression in brown adipose tissue, and the gene expression responsible for lipolysis and glycolysis in white adipose tissue (WAT). CTRP1 also downregulated the expression of inflammatory genes in WAT. Overexpression of CTRP1 activated AMPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways and inhibited ERK signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that CTRP1 could improve glucose homeostasis and prevent HFD-induced obesity and fatty liver through upregulating the energy expenditure and reducing food intake, suggesting CTRP1 may serve as a promising target for treating metabolic diseases.

CTRP4 is Associated with Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with type 2 diabetes

Aims/Introduction

To evaluate the correlation of circulating C1q tumor necrosis factor‐related protein 4 (CTRP4) with coronary artery disease (CAD) in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Methods

A total of 240 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus were enrolled in our center between January 2020 and December 2020. They were assigned into two groups, including the CAD and non‐CAD groups, based on coronary angiography or computed tomography angiography findings. Serum CTRP4 levels were detected by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. The association of CTRP4 with CAD was determined by logistic regression analysis. The predictive value of CTRP4 for CAD was calculated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

Median serum CTRP4 amounts were markedly elevated in the CAD group in comparison with the non‐CAD group (10.37 vs 3.75 ng/mL, P < 0.01). Binary logistic regression showed that CTRP4 was associated with CAD and even the amount of coronary artery lesions (P < 0.05). In receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was greater for CTRP4 compared with HbA1c or CRP (0.87 vs 0.74, 0.87 vs 0.80, P < 0.01). The area under the curve for CTRP4 and glycated hemoglobin in combination was larger than that obtained for CTRP4 combined with CRP (0.91 vs 0.87, P < 0.01). According to the maximum Youden index criteria, the optimal cut‐off of CTRP4 was 5.42 ng/mL, which yielded a sensitivity of 84.4% and a specificity of 76.7% in predicting CAD in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Conclusions

Serum CTRP4 levels are positively correlated with CAD occurrence and severity. Combining CTRP4 and glycated hemoglobin has a better predictive value for CAD in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Increased serum C1q/TNF-related protein 4 concentration in patients with acute coronary syndrome

Accumulated evidence have revealed profound associations between C1q/TNF-related proteins (CTRPs) and coronary artery disease (CAD); yet, the relationship of CTRP4 to CAD has not been investigated. We examined the role of CTRP4 in CAD, and especially in acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

METHODS

A total of 138 patients referred for coronary angiography were included in this study and were classified into 3 groups (ACS, CAD and control group). Comparisons regarding clinical data and CTRP4 concentration were performed among 3 groups. Weighted least-squares regression analysis was used to identify the independent predicting factors for CTRP4.

RESULTS

Compared with either CAD (median 7.19 vs. 9.43, P < 0.05) or control group (median 7.22 vs. 9.43, P < 0.01), ACS group showed higher CTRP4 concentration. In addition, trend χ² test revealed the presence of ACS increased with increased CTRP4 concentration (P = 0.010). Finally, in the weighted least-squares regression analysis, ACS was the only independent variable influencing CTRP4 concentration (β- coefficient = 3.082, P = 0.004), even after adjusting for high-sensitivity C reactive protein (β- coefficient = 3.050, P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS

CTRP4 was associated with ACS; moreover, ACS was the independent factor in predicting CTRP4 concentration. The potentially important implications of CTRP4 in ACS may offer a novel insight into understanding the link between inflammation and ACS.

ER-associated CTRP1 regulates mitochondrial fission via interaction with DRP1

C1q/TNF-related protein 1 (CTRP1) is a CTRP family member that has collagenous and globular C1q-like domains. The secreted form of CTRP1 is known to be associated with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, but its cellular roles have not yet been elucidated. Here, we showed that cytosolic CTRP1 localizes to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane and that knockout or depletion of CTRP1 leads to mitochondrial fission defects, as demonstrated by mitochondrial elongation. Mitochondrial fission events are known to occur through an interaction between mitochondria and the ER, but we do not know whether the ER and/or its associated proteins participate directly in the entire mitochondrial fission event. Interestingly, we herein showed that ablation of CTRP1 suppresses the recruitment of DRP1 to mitochondria and provided evidence suggesting that the ER-mitochondrion interaction is required for the proper regulation of mitochondrial morphology. We further report that CTRP1 inactivation-induced mitochondrial fission defects induce apoptotic resistance and neuronal degeneration, which are also associated with ablation of DRP1. These results demonstrate for the first time that cytosolic CTRP1 is an ER transmembrane protein that acts as a key regulator of mitochondrial fission, providing new insight into the etiology of metabolic and neurodegenerative disorders.

C1q tumor necrosis factor-related protein 1: a promising therapeutic target for atherosclerosis

ABSTRACT

Atherosclerosis serves as the pathological basis of most cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. C1q tumor necrosis factor-related protein (CTRP1) is a 35-kDa glycoprotein synthesized by various tissues and cells, such as adipose tissue and macrophages. As an adiponectin paralog, CTRP1 signals through adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1) and participates in a variety of pathophysiological processes. Circulating CTRP1 levels are significantly increased in patients with coronary artery disease. Importantly, CTRP1 was shown to accelerate the development of atherosclerosis by promoting vascular inflammation, macrophage foam cell formation and endothelial barrier dysfunction. This review focused on recent advances regarding the role of CTRP1 in atherogenesis with an emphasis on its potential as a novel biomarker and a promising therapeutic target for atherosclerosis-related diseases.

CTRP1 decreases ABCA1 expression and promotes lipid accumulation through the miR-424-5p/FoxO1 pathway in THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cells

Prevention of ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1)-dependent cholesterol efflux leads to lipid accumulation in macrophages and atherosclerosis development. C1q tumor necrosis factor-related protein 1 (CTRP1), a conserved paralog of adiponectin, has been shown to aggravate atherosclerosis via its proinflammatory property. However, very little is known about its effects on ABCA1 expression and macrophage lipid accumulation. In the current studies, we found that CTRP1 downregulated ABCA1 expression, inhibited cholesterol efflux to apoA-I and promoted lipid accumulation in THP-1 macrophage-derived foam cells. Forkhead box O1 (FoxO1), a transcriptional repressor of ABCA1, was identified as a direct target of miR-424-5p. Mechanistically, CTRP1 attenuated miR-424-5p levels and then augmented FoxO1 expression in the nucleus, which led to downregulation of ABCA1 expression and inhibition of cholesterol efflux. In conclusion, these findings suggest that CTRP1 restrains cholesterol efflux and facilitates macrophage lipid accumulation through the miR-424-5p/FoxO1/ABCA1 signaling pathway, thereby providing a novel mechanistical insight into its proatherosclerotic action.

Altered adipokines in obese adolescents: a cross-sectional and longitudinal analysis across the spectrum of glycemia

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are rapidly increasing in the adolescent population. We sought to determine whether adipokines, specifically leptin, C1q/TNF-related proteins 1 (CTRP1) and CTRP9, and the hepatokine fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), are associated with obesity and hyperglycemia in a cohort of lean and obese adolescents, across the spectrum of glycemia. In an observational, longitudinal study of lean and obese adolescents, we measured fasting laboratory tests, oral glucose tolerance tests, and adipokines including leptin, CTRP1, CTRP9, and FGF21. Participants completed baseline and 2-year follow-up study visits and were categorized as lean (LC, lean control; n = 30), obese normoglycemic (ONG; n = 61), and obese hyperglycemic (OHG; n = 31) adolescents at baseline and lean (n = 8), ONG (n = 18), and OHG (n = 4) at follow-up. Groups were compared using ANOVA and regression analysis, and linear mixed effects modeling was used to test for differences in adipokine levels across baseline and follow-up visits. Results showed that at baseline, leptin was higher in all obese groups (P < 0.001) compared with LC. FGF21 was higher in OHG participants compared with LC (P < 0.001) and ONG (P < 0.001) and positively associated with fasting glucose (P < 0.001), fasting insulin (P < 0.001), Homeostasis Model Assessment-Insulin Resistance Index (HOMA-IR; P < 0.001), and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c; P = 0.01). CTRP1 was higher in OHG compared with ONG (P = 0.03). CTRP9 was not associated with obesity or hyperglycemia in this pediatric cohort. At 2 years, leptin decreased in ONG (P = 0.003) and FGF21 increased in OHG (P = 0.02), relative to lean controls. Altered adipokine levels are associated with the inflammatory milieu in obese youth with and without hyperglycemia. In adolescence, the novel adipokine CTRP1 was elevated with hyperglycemia, whereas CTRP9 was unchanged in this cohort.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Leptin is higher in obese adolescents and FGF21 is higher in obese hyperglycemic adolescents. The novel adipokine CTRP1 is higher in obese hyperglycemic adolescents, whereas CTRP9 was unchanged in this adolescent cohort.

CTRP1 Aggravates Cardiac Dysfunction Post Myocardial Infarction by Modulating TLR4 in Macrophages

CTRP1 (C1q/TNF-α [tumour necrosis factor-α]-related protein 1), an adiponectin paralog, is associated with diabetes and adverse events in cardiovascular disease. However, its effect on cardiac function post myocardial infarction (MI) is unclear. Our study aimed to explore the role of CTRP1 in cardiac function post MI. CTRP1 global knockout mice were subjected to left anterior descending ligation to establish the MI model. C57BL6J mice were also administered recombinant CTRP1 protein (200 μg/kg) 7 days post MI. As a result, mice with CTRP1 deficiency exhibited an increased survival rate, a reduced infarct area, improved cardiac function and decreased inflammation and oxidative stress levels at 4 weeks post MI compared with those of mice receiving the CRTP1 injection, whose conditions deteriorated. However, cardiomyocytes with either CTRP1 silencing or CTRP1 treatment showed few differences in inflammation and oxidative stress levels compared with those of the control under hypoxic conditions. The activation of macrophages isolated from CTRP1-deficient mice was decreased in response to interferon-γ, while CTRP1 enhanced the activation of macrophages in response to interferon-γ. Macrophage scavengers and clodronate liposomes antagonized the effects of CTRP1 injection in mice. We also found that CTRP1 regulated macrophage activation via adiponectin receptor 1, which binds to TLR4 on the macrophage membrane. TLR4 knockout also antagonized the effects of the CTRP1 protein on mice with MI. Taken together, these data indicate that CTRP1 supresses cardiac function post MI via TLR4 on macrophages. Targeting CTRP1 may become a promising therapeutic approach to cardiac dysfunction post MI.

Daytime sleepiness predicts inflammation and ambulatory blood pressure in sleep apnoea

Introduction

Sleepiness in obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with cardiovascular risk; however, the biological mechanisms are not known. This study explored whether those with subjective sleepiness have increased plasma tumour necrosis factor-related protein 1 (C1qTNF1), a novel adipose-derived hormone (adipokine), and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (ABP) compared to those without sleepiness in newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve participants with obstructive sleep apnoea.

Methods

Overall, 94 participants were included in the analysis. Participants completed the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), 24-h ABP was monitored, and plasma C1qTNF1 was measured. Sleepy participants were defined as ESS≥10 and nonsleepy as ESS<10. Multiple linear regression was used to explore differences in C1qTNF1, and 24-h mean arterial pressure (MAP) between sleepy and nonsleepy participants, adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, apnoea–hypopnoea index, and smoking status.

Results

C1qTNF1 was significantly higher in sleepy participants (n=57) compared to nonsleepy participants (n=37) (β=0.41 NPX, 95% CI 0.02, 0.80; p=0.04). The 24-h MAP was significantly higher in sleepy participants compared to nonsleepy participants (β=4.06 mmHg, 95% CI 0.36, 7.77; p=0.03).

Conclusions

Our findings show that sleepiness is associated with inflammation and higher 24-h MAP in sleep apnoea.

Excessive sleepiness experienced by treatment-naïve patients with obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with inflammation, higher daily systolic ambulatory blood pressure and higher 24 h mean arterial pressurehttps://bit.ly/3goeqGD

Adipose Tissue Immunomodulation: A Novel Therapeutic Approach in Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases

Adipose tissue is a critical regulator of systemic metabolism and bodily homeostasis as it secretes a myriad of adipokines, including inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. As the main storage pool of lipids, subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissues undergo marked hypertrophy and hyperplasia in response to nutritional excess leading to hypoxia, adipokine dysregulation, and subsequent low-grade inflammation that is characterized by increased infiltration and activation of innate and adaptive immune cells. The specific localization, physiology, susceptibility to inflammation and the heterogeneity of the inflammatory cell population of each adipose depot are unique and thus dictate the possible complications of adipose tissue chronic inflammation. Several lines of evidence link visceral and particularly perivascular, pericardial, and perirenal adipose tissue inflammation to the development of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. In addition to the implication of the immune system in the regulation of adipose tissue function, adipose tissue immune components are pivotal in detrimental or otherwise favorable adipose tissue remodeling and thermogenesis. Adipose tissue resident and infiltrating immune cells undergo metabolic and morphological adaptation based on the systemic energy status and thus a better comprehension of the metabolic regulation of immune cells in adipose tissues is pivotal to address complications of chronic adipose tissue inflammation. In this review, we discuss the role of adipose innate and adaptive immune cells across various physiological and pathophysiological states that pertain to the development or progression of cardiovascular diseases associated with metabolic disorders. Understanding such mechanisms allows for the exploitation of the adipose tissue-immune system crosstalk, exploring how the adipose immune system might be targeted as a strategy to treat cardiovascular derangements associated with metabolic dysfunctions.

CTRP-1 levels are related to insulin resistance in pregnancy and gestational diabetes mellitus

Recent studies have shown higher levels of CTRP-1 (C1QTNF-related protein) in patients with type 2 diabetes compared to controls. We aimed at investigating CTRP-1 in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). CTRP-1 levels were investigated in 167 women (93 with normal glucose tolerance (NGT), 74 GDM) of a high-risk population for GDM. GDM was further divided into GDM subtypes depending on a predominant insulin sensitivity issue (GDM-IR) or secretion deficit (GDM-IS). Glucose tolerance was assessed with indices [Matsuda index, Stumvoll first phase index, insulin-secretion-sensitivity-index 2 (ISSI-2), area-under-the-curve (AUC) insulin, AUC glucose] derived from an oral glucose tolerance test (oGTT) performed at < 21 and 24–28 weeks of gestation. In pregnancy, CTRP-1 levels of GDM (76.86 ± 37.81 ng/ml) and NGT (82.2 ± 35.34 ng/ml; p = 0.104) were similar. However, GDM-IR women (65.18 ± 42.18 ng/ml) had significantly lower CTRP-1 levels compared to GDM-IS (85.10 ± 28.14 ng/ml; p = 0.009) and NGT (p = 0.006). CTRP-1 levels correlated negatively with weight, AUC insulin, Stumvoll first phase index, bioavailable estradiol and positively with HbA1c, Matsuda Index and ISSI-2. A multiple regression analysis revealed bioavailable estradiol (β = − 0.280, p = 0.008) and HbA1c (β = 0.238; p = 0.018) as the main variables associated with CTRP-1 in GDM. Postpartum, waist and hip measurements were predictive of CRTP-1 levels instead. CTRP-1 levels were higher postpartum than during pregnancy (91.92 ± 47.27 vs.82.44 ± 38.99 ng/ml; p = 0.013). CTRP-1 is related to insulin resistance in pregnancy and might be a metabolic biomarker for insulin resistance in GDM. CTRP-1 levels were significantly lower during pregnancy than postpartum, probably due to rising insulin resistance during pregnancy.

Differential DNA methylation profile in infants born small-for-gestational-age: association with markers of adiposity and insulin resistance from birth to age 24 months

INTRODUCTION

Prenatal growth restraint followed by rapid postnatal weight gain increases lifelong diabetes risk. Epigenetic dysregulation in critical windows could exert long-term effects on metabolism and confer such risk.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a genome-wide DNA methylation profiling in peripheral blood from infants born appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA, n=30) or small-for-gestational-age (SGA, n=21, with postnatal catch-up) at age 12 months, to identify new genes that may predispose to metabolic dysfunction. Candidate genes were validated by bisulfite pyrosequencing in the entire cohort. All infants were followed since birth; cord blood methylation profiling was previously reported. Endocrine-metabolic variables and body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were assessed at birth and at 12 and 24 months.

RESULTS

GPR120 (cg14582356, cg01272400, cg23654127, cg03629447), NKX6.1 (cg22598426, cg07688460, cg17444738, cg12076463, cg10457539), CPT1A (cg14073497, cg00941258, cg12778395) and IGFBP 4 (cg15471812) genes were hypermethylated (GPR120, NKX6.1 were also hypermethylated in cord blood), whereas CHGA (cg13332653, cg15480367, cg05700406), FABP5 (cg00696973, cg10563714, cg16128701), CTRP1 (cg19231170, cg19472078, cg0164309, cg07162665, cg17758081, cg18996910, cg06709009), GAS6 (N/A), ONECUT1 (cg14217069, cg02061705, cg26158897, cg06657050, cg15446043) and SLC2A8 (cg20758474, cg19021975, cg11312566, cg12281690, cg04016166, cg03804985) genes were hypomethylated in SGA infants. These genes were related to β-cell development and function, inflammation, and glucose and lipid metabolism and associated with body mass index, body composition, and markers of insulin resistance at 12 and 24 months.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, at 12 months, abnormal methylation of GPR120 and NKX6.1 persists and new epigenetic marks further involved in adipogenesis and energy homeostasis arise in SGA infants. These abnormalities may contribute to metabolic dysfunction and diabetes risk later in life.

A Review of the Relationship Between CTRP Family and Coronary Artery Disease

Purpose of Review

In recent years, a family of adiponectin paralogs designated as C1q/TNF-related protein (CTRP) has attracted increasing attention. They are inflammatory adipocytokines mostly secreted from epicardial adipose tissue, which modulate the development and prognosis of coronary artery disease (CAD). This review summarizes the pathophysiological roles of individual members of the CTRP superfamily in the development of CAD.

Recent Findings

Recent studies have revealed how members of the CTRP family, CTRP1, CTRP3, CTRP5, CTRP9, CTRP12, and CTRP13, can influence both development and progression of CAD by modulating metabolic pathways, influencing immuno-inflammatory response, and regulating cardiovascular functions.

Summary

Research to date has not been sufficient to answer the specific mechanism of the CTRP family in the occurrence and development of CAD. This review explores the evidence of CTRP superfamily regulating different pathophysiology stages of CAD through the immuno-inflammation, glucose and lipid metabolism, and vascular endothelial function.

Hypomethylation of C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-1 promoter region in whole blood and risks for coronary artery aneurysms in Kawasaki disease

BACKGROUND

Kawasaki disease (KD) is characterized as a self-limited systemic vasculitis. C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein-1 (CTRP1) had been associated with the occurrence of vasculitis in KD. Methylation at the promoter region of certain genes was reported to be involved in the development process of KD. This study aims to investigate the methylation levels of CTRP1 in KD, as well as, its potential to predict coronary artery aneurysms (CAAs).

METHODS

31 patients with KD and 14 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited into this study. The KD group was further divided into KD with CAA (KD-CAAs) group and KD without NCAAs (KD-NCAAs) group. Methylation levels of CpG sites were determined by MethylTarget sequencing, a method that uses multiple targeted CpG methylation analysis.

RESULTS

The methylation levels of CTRP1 promoter region in the KD group were lower than that in the HC group at all predicted CpG sites, especially at sites 34, 51, 69, 79, 176 and 206. Compared with KD-CAAs group, the methylation levels of almost every CpG sites of CTRP1 were increased in the KD-NCAAs group, with site 69 and 154 found to be strongly related to the occurrence of CAAs.

CONCLUSIONS

The difference in methylation levels of CTRP1 promoter may be involved in the development process of KD, and may be a potential predictive marker for the occurrence of CAAs.

Implications of C1q/TNF-related protein superfamily in patients with coronary artery disease

The C1q complement/TNF-related protein superfamily (CTRPs) displays differential effects on the regulation of metabolic homeostasis, governing cardiovascular function. However, whether and how they may serve as predictor/pro-diagnosis factors for assessing the risks of coronary artery disease (CAD) remains controversial. Therefore, we performed a clinical study to elaborate on the implication of CTRPs (CTRP1, CTRP5, CTRP7, and CTRP15) in CAD. CTRP1 were significantly increased, whereas CTRP7 and CTRP15 levels were decreased in CAD patients compared to the non-CAD group. Significant differences in CTRP1 levels were discovered between the single- and triple-vascular-vessel lesion groups. ROC analysis revealed that CTRP7 and CTRP15 may serve as CAD markers, while CTRP1 may serve as a marker for the single-vessel lesion of CAD. CTRP1 and CTRP5 can serve as markers for the triple-vessel lesion. CTRP1 may serve as an independent risk predictor for triple-vessel lesion, whereas CTRP15 alteration may serve for a single-vessel lesion of CAD. CTRP1 may serve as a novel superior biomarker for diagnosis of severity of vessel-lesion of CAD patients. CTRP7, CTRP15 may serve as more suitable biomarker for the diagnosis of CAD patients, whereas CTRP5 may serve as an independent predictor for CAD. These findings suggest CTRPs may be the superior predictive factors for the vascular lesion of CAD and represent novel therapeutic targets against CAD.

The Role of Adipokines as Circulating Biomarkers in Critical Illness and Sepsis

Sepsis represents a major global health burden. Early diagnosis of sepsis as well as guiding early therapeutic decisions in septic patients still represent major clinical challenges. In this context, a whole plethora of different clinical and serum-based markers have been tested regarding their potential for early detection of sepsis and their ability to stratify patients according to their probability to survive critical illness and sepsis. Adipokines represent a fast-growing class of proteins that have gained an increasing interest with respect to their potential to modulate immune responses in inflammatory and infectious diseases. We review current knowledge on the role of different adipokines in diagnostic work-up and risk stratification of sepsis as well as critical illness. We discuss recent data from animal models as well as from clinical studies and finally highlight the limitations of these analyses that currently prevent the use of adipokines as biomarkers in daily practice.

Data on the association between CTRP1 and future major adverse cardiovascular events in patients undergoing coronary angiography

This article provides additional data on the association of the new adipokine CTRP1 with the incidence of future major adverse cardiovascular events in a prospective cohort of patients undergoing coronary angiography. In this regard, multivariable Cox proportional hazards models taking into account cardiac risk markers are presented. Additionally, data on the impact of baseline variables including metabolic traits and co-morbidities on the incidence of future major adverse cardiovascular events are shown. This data article is associated to the research article titled ‘The Novel Adipokine CTRP1 is Significantly Associated with the Incidence of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events’ Muendlein et al., 2019.