1
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Dal Pino B, Sbrana F. Women and lipoprotein apheresis: another side of gender medicine. Endocrine 2024:10.1007/s12020-024-03941-x. [PMID: 38940885 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-024-03941-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
AIM In heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) woman atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease occurs 20-years earlier respect woman without FH while homozygous FH women may suffer from atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease even in childhood. Lipoprotein apheresis, a therapeutic "last chance saloon", is a well-tolerated procedure that markedly lowers LDL-cholesterol and Lp(a) levels in patients who do not achieve acceptable levels with maximal lifestyle and drug therapy. METHODS AND RESULTS The experience of LA treatment in 3 female homozygous FH patients was described. Moreover, an explore analysis on pre and post-LA hormonal levels was performed in 8 HeFH women showing a significant improvement in the atherogenic lipid profile (total cholesterol -56%, LDL cholesterol -71%, triglycerides -72%, Apo B lipoprotein -69%, Lp(a) -59%;) and a reduction of FSH and LH values (FSH - 28%, LH -31%). CONCLUSIONS Women with FH experience specific barriers to care, including underrepresentation in research, significant underestimation of risk, and discontinuation of therapy during pregnancy. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the possible effects of LA treatment on plasma FSH and LH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Dal Pino
- Lipoapheresis Unit - Reference Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Inherited Dyslipidemias, Fondazione Toscana "Gabriele Monasterio", Via Moruzzi 1, Pisa, 56124, Italy
| | - Francesco Sbrana
- Lipoapheresis Unit - Reference Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Inherited Dyslipidemias, Fondazione Toscana "Gabriele Monasterio", Via Moruzzi 1, Pisa, 56124, Italy.
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2
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Longo S, Cassandra F, Cardolini I, Montagna M, Nucera A, Federici M. Double mutation in genes associated to FH and diabetes. Acta Diabetol 2024; 61:671-674. [PMID: 38424212 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-024-02235-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Longo
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy
- Center for Atherosclerosis, Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Iris Cardolini
- Center for Atherosclerosis, Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Montagna
- Center for Atherosclerosis, Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Federici
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Via Montpellier 1, 00133, Rome, Italy.
- Center for Atherosclerosis, Policlinico Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
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3
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Alieva A, Di Costanzo A, Gazzotti M, Reutova O, Usova E, Bakaleiko V, Arca M, D'Erasmo L, Pellegatta F, Galimberti F, Olmastroni E, Catapano AL, Casula M. Genetic heterogeneity of familial hypercholesterolaemia in two populations from two different countries. Eur J Intern Med 2024; 123:65-71. [PMID: 38245461 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2024.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetically determined monogenic disorder of predominantly autosomal dominant inheritance. A number of studies on differences in the genetic profile of patients with FH have demonstrated the importance of a more substantive evaluation of genetic features. The aim of this study was to evaluate the genetic profile of patients with clinical FH among Italian and Russian patients. METHODS We included 144 Italian and 79 Russian FH patients; clinical diagnosis was based on the same criteria. Patients were divided in: positive to genetic test (one causative variant), inconclusive (only variants of uncertain clinical significance [VUS]), and negative (with likely benign/benign variants, heterozygous variants in LDLRAP1 gene, or without causative variants). RESULTS The genetic test was positive in 76.4 % of the Italian patients and in 49.4 % of the Russian patients. The presence of VUS alone was detected in 7.6 % and in 19.0 % (p < 0.001), respectively. Among patients with positive genetic diagnosis, pre-treatment LDL-C levels were higher in the Russian cohort (353.5 ± 111.3 vs. 302.7 ± 52.1 mg/dL, p = 0.009), as well as the percentage of treated patients (53.8 % vs. 14.5 %, p < 0.001) and the prevalence of premature coronary heart disease (12.8 % vs. 3.6 %, p = 0.039). Among patients carrying only VUS, mean pre-treatment LDL-C levels were similar between the cohorts (299.5 ± 68.1 vs. 295.3 ± 46.8 mg/dL, p = 0.863). Among pathogenic/likely pathogenic variants and VUS, only 5 % and 4 % was shared between the two cohorts, respectively. CONCLUSION The genetic background of patients clinically diagnosed with FH in two different countries is characterized by high variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asiiat Alieva
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
| | - Alessia Di Costanzo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Olga Reutova
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elena Usova
- Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russia
| | | | - Marcello Arca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura D'Erasmo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Elena Olmastroni
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy; Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DisFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy; Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DisFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy; Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DisFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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4
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Buganza R, Massini G, Di Taranto MD, Cardiero G, de Sanctis L, Guardamagna O. Simplified Criteria for Identification of Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Children: Application in Real Life. J Cardiovasc Dev Dis 2024; 11:123. [PMID: 38667741 PMCID: PMC11050898 DOI: 10.3390/jcdd11040123] [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: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) in children is primarily based on main criteria including low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, increased in the proband and relatives, and its inheritance. Two other relevant parameters are symptoms, rarely occurring in children, as rare are the FH homozygous patients, and the mutation detection of related genes. The latter allows the final diagnosis, although it is not commonly available. Moreover, the application of diagnostic scores, useful in adults, is poorly applied in children. The aim of this study was to compare the reliability of criteria here applied with different scores, apart from genetic analysis, for FH diagnosis. The latter was then confirmed by genetic analysis. METHODS n. 180 hypercholesterolemic children (age 10.2 ± 4.6 years) showing LDL-C levels ≥95th percentile (age- and sex-related), the dominant inheritance pattern of hypercholesterolemia (including LDL-C ≥95th percentile in one parent), were considered potentially affected by FH and included in the study. The molecular analysis of the LDLR, APOB and PCSK9 genes was applied to verify the diagnostic accuracy. Biochemical and family history data were also retrospectively categorized according to European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS), Simon Broome Register (SBR), Pediatric group of the Italian LIPIGEN (LIPIGEN-FH-PED) and Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) criteria. Detailed kindred biochemical and clinical assessments were extended to three generations. The lipid profile was detected by standard laboratory kits, and gene analysis was performed by traditional sequencing or Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). RESULTS Among 180 hypercholesterolemic subjects, FH suspected based on the above criteria, 164/180 had the diagnosis confirmed, showing causative mutations. The mutation detection rate (MDR) was 91.1%. The scoring criteria proposed by the EAS, SBR and LIPIGEN-FH-PED (resulting in high probable, possible-defined and probable-defined, respectively) showed high sensitivity (~90%), low specificity (~6%) and high MDR (~91%). It is noteworthy that their application, as a discriminant for the execution of the molecular investigation, would lead to a loss of 9.1%, 9.8% and 9.1%, respectively, of FH-affected patients, as confirmed by the genetic analysis. DLCN criteria, for which LDL-C cut-offs are not specific for childhood, would lead to a loss of 53% of patients with mutations. CONCLUSIONS In the pediatric population, the combination of LDL-C ≥95th percentile in the proband and the dominant inheritance pattern of hypercholesterolemia, with LDL-C ≥95th percentile in one parent, is a simple, useful and effective diagnostic criterion, showing high MDR. This pattern is crucial for early FH diagnosis. EAS, SBR and LIPIGEN-FH-PED criteria can underestimate the real number of patients with gene mutations and cannot be considered strictly discriminant for the execution of molecular analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Buganza
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, 10133 Torino, Italy; (G.M.); (L.d.S.); (O.G.)
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Ospedale Infantile Regina Margherita, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Giulia Massini
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, 10133 Torino, Italy; (G.M.); (L.d.S.); (O.G.)
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Ospedale Infantile Regina Margherita, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Maria Donata Di Taranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.D.T.); (G.C.)
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Cardiero
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (M.D.D.T.); (G.C.)
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate Franco Salvatore, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Luisa de Sanctis
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, 10133 Torino, Italy; (G.M.); (L.d.S.); (O.G.)
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Ospedale Infantile Regina Margherita, 10126 Torino, Italy
| | - Ornella Guardamagna
- Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, University of Torino, 10133 Torino, Italy; (G.M.); (L.d.S.); (O.G.)
- Pediatric Endocrinology, Ospedale Infantile Regina Margherita, 10126 Torino, Italy
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5
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Raslova K, Donicova V, Gonova K, Klabnik A, Tichy L, Bridges I, Buckova D, Zachlederova M, Freiberger T, Vohnout B. Detecting familial hypercholesterolemia: An observational study leveraging mandatory universal pediatric total cholesterol screening in Slovakia. J Clin Lipidol 2024:S1933-2874(24)00045-X. [PMID: 38955586 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2024.03.009] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Slovakia, a mandatory national universal pediatric total cholesterol (TC) screening program is in place to identify cases of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). However, the program's effectiveness has not been systematically assessed. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of FH among parents of children that had elevated TC levels identified during screening. METHODS This prospective, non-interventional, observational study enrolled parents of 11-year-old children who underwent TC screening in 23 selected pediatric outpatient clinics between 2017 and 2018. FH was diagnosed using the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) criteria and targeted next-generation sequencing. The primary objective was to estimate the proportion of children with a TC level of >188 mg/dL (>4.85 mmol/L) who had a parent with a confirmed diagnosis of FH. RESULTS A total of 112 parents of 56 children with an elevated TC level were enrolled. Five children (8.9%) had a parent in whom FH was genetically confirmed. Without genetic analysis, all five parents would only be diagnosed with "possible FH" by DLCN criteria. Of parents, 83.9% (n = 94/112) had an LDL-C level of >116 mg/dL (>3 mmol/L), but only 5.3% (n = 5/94) received lipid-lowering therapy. Among the five parents with genetically confirmed FH, all had an LDL-C level >116 mg/dL (>3 mmol/L), with a mean (±SD) of 191 (±24) mg/dL (4.94 [±0.61] mmol/L). Only two of these parents received lipid-lowering therapy. CONCLUSIONS The present study demonstrates the significance of mandatory universal pediatric TC screening in identifying families with FH and other at-risk families in need of lipid-lowering therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Raslova
- Metabolic Center, Ltd, Coordination for Familial Hyperlipidemias, Slovak Medical University, Bratislava, Slovakia (Dr Raslova).
| | - Viera Donicova
- Outpatient Department of Internal Medicine and Diabetology, Košice, Slovakia (Dr Donicova)
| | - Katarina Gonova
- Internal Outpatient Clinic, MedPed Lipid Clinic, Piestany, Slovakia (Dr Gonova); Faculty of Public Health, Slovak Medical University, Bratislava, Slovakia (Dr Gonova)
| | - Alexander Klabnik
- Cardiology Outpatient Clinic, MedPed Lipid Clinic, Namestovo, Slovakia (Dr Klabnik)
| | - Lukas Tichy
- Centre of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine - Hematology and Oncology, University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic (Dr Tichy); Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic (Drs Tichy and Freiberger)
| | - Ian Bridges
- Amgen UK Ltd, Uxbridge, United Kingdom (Dr Bridges)
| | - Dagmar Buckova
- Amgen Slovakia s.r.o., Bratislava, Slovakia (Dr Buckova)
| | | | - Tomas Freiberger
- Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic (Drs Tichy and Freiberger); Centre of Cardiovascular Surgery and Transplantation, Brno, Czech Republic (Dr Freiberger).
| | - Branislav Vohnout
- Diabetes and Lipid Outpatient Clinic, Diabeda s.r.o., Bratislava, Slovakia (Dr Vohnout); Coordination Center for Familial Hyperlipidemias, Institute of Nutrition, Department of Diabetes, Slovak Medical University, Bratislava, Slovakia (Dr Vohnout); Department of Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia (Dr Vohnout).
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6
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Bosco G, Di Giacomo Barbagallo F, Di Marco M, Miano N, Scilletta S, Spampinato S, Vitale A, Di Bella F, Montalbano M, Di Mauro S, Filippello A, Scamporrino A, Milluzzo A, Di Pino A, Frittitta L, Purrello F, Piro S, Scicali R. The impact of SLCO1B1 rs4149056 on LDL-C target achievement after lipid lowering therapy optimization in men and women with familial hypercholesterolemia. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1346152. [PMID: 38405139 PMCID: PMC10885347 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1346152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and aims FH women are less likely to receive intensive statin treatment and to obtain a 50% reduction of LDL-C from baseline compared to men with FH. SLCO1B1 rs4149056 might influence statin therapy compliance and thus LDL-C target achievement. Our aim was to evaluate the impact of SLCO1B1 rs4149056 on LDL-C target achievement after lipid lowering therapy (LLT) optimization in men and women with FH. Methods This was a retrospective observational study involving 412 FH subjects with a probable or defined clinical diagnosis of FH who had had genetic analysis from June 2016 to September 2022. Biochemical analysis was obtained from all subjects at baseline and at the last follow-up after LLT optimization. Results After LLT optimization the percentage of FH subjects on high-intensity statins decreased from the M/SLCO1B1- group to the W/SLCO1B1+ group and the same was found in LDL-C target distribution (for both p for trend < 0.01). The prevalence of SASE fear increased from the M/SLCO1B1- group to the W/SLCO1B1+ group and the same was observed in reported myalgia distribution (for both p for trend < 0.01). Logistic regression analysis showed that the W/SCLO1B1-, M/SCLO1B1+ and W/SCLO1B1+ groups were inversely associated with LDL-C target achievement (p for trend < 0.001) and the W/SCLO1B1+ group exhibited the strongest association. Conclusion A low prevalence of FH women with SLCO1B1 rs4149056 were on high intensity statins and they rarely achieved LDL-C target. The genotype effect of SLCO1B1 rs4149056 could be more pronounced in FH women than men.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Salvatore Piro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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7
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Casula M, Gazzotti M, Capra ME, Olmastroni E, Galimberti F, Catapano AL, Pederiva C. Refinement of the diagnostic approach for the identification of children and adolescents affected by familial hypercholesterolemia: Evidence from the LIPIGEN study. Atherosclerosis 2023; 385:117231. [PMID: 37648636 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.117231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We aimed to describe the limitations of familiar hypercholesterolemia (FH) diagnosis in childhood based on the presence of the typical features of FH, such as physical sings of cholesterol accumulation and personal or family history of premature cardiovascular disease or hypercholesterolemia, comparing their prevalence in the adult and paediatric FH population, and to illustrate how additional information can lead to a more effective diagnosis of FH at a younger age. METHODS From the Italian LIPIGEN cohort, we selected 1188 (≥18 years) and 708 (<18 years) genetically-confirmed heterozygous FH, with no missing personal FH features. The prevalence of personal and familial FH features was compared between the two groups. For a sub-group of the paediatric cohort (N = 374), data about premature coronary heart disease (CHD) in second-degree family members were also included in the evaluation. RESULTS The lower prevalence of typical FH features in children/adolescents vs adults was confirmed: the prevalence of tendon xanthoma was 2.1% vs 13.1%, and arcus cornealis was present in 1.6% vs 11.2% of the cohorts, respectively. No children presented clinical history of premature CHD or cerebral/peripheral vascular disease compared to 8.8% and 5.6% of adults, respectively. The prevalence of premature CHD in first-degree relatives was significantly higher in adults compared to children/adolescents (38.9% vs 19.7%). In the sub-cohort analysis, a premature CHD event in parents was reported in 63 out of 374 subjects (16.8%), but the percentage increased to 54.0% extending the evaluation also to second-degree relatives. CONCLUSIONS In children, the typical FH features are clearly less informative than in adults. A more thorough data collection, adding information about second-degree relatives, could improve the diagnosis of FH at younger age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Casula
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, 20133, Italy; IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, 20099, Italy.
| | - Marta Gazzotti
- Fondazione SISA (Società Italiana per lo Studio dell'Aterosclerosi), 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Capra
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, 29121, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, 20133, Italy; IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, 20099, Italy
| | | | | | - Cristina Pederiva
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Paediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142, Milan, Italy
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8
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Pederiva C, Gazzotti M, Arca M, Averna M, Banderali G, Biasucci G, Brambilla M, Buonuomo PS, Calabrò P, Cipollone F, Citroni N, D’Addato S, Del Ben M, Genovesi S, Guardamagna O, Iannuzzo G, Iughetti L, Mandraffino G, Maroni L, Mombelli G, Muntoni S, Nascimbeni F, Passaro A, Pellegatta F, Pirro M, Pisciotta L, Pujia R, Sarzani R, Scicali R, Suppressa P, Zambon S, Zenti MG, Calandra S, Catapano AL, Tarugi P, Galimberti F, Casula M, Capra ME. Clinical Approach in the Management of Paediatric Patients with Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A National Survey Conducted by the LIPIGEN Paediatric Group. Nutrients 2023; 15:3468. [PMID: 37571405 PMCID: PMC10420921 DOI: 10.3390/nu15153468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Detection and treatment of patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) starting from childhood is fundamental to reduce morbidity and mortality. The activity of National realities such as the LIPIGEN (LIpid transPort disorders Italian GEnetic Network) Paediatric Group, founded in 2018, is a milestone in this context. The aim of this exploratory survey, conducted in October 2021 among Italian lipid clinics included in the LIPIGEN Paediatric Group, was to investigate the current clinical approach in the management and treatment of paediatric patients with suspected FH. A digital questionnaire composed of 20 questions investigating nutritional treatment and nutraceutical and pharmacological therapy for children and adolescents with FH was proposed to the principal investigators of 30 LIPIGEN centres. Twenty-four centres responded to the section referring to children aged < 10 years and 30 to that referring to adolescents. Overall, 66.7% of children and 73.3% of adolescents were given lipid-lowering nutritional treatment as the first intervention level for at least 3-4 months (29.2% and 23.3%) or 6-12 months (58.3% and 53.3%). Nutraceuticals were considered in 41.7% (regarding children) and 50.0% (regarding adolescents) of the centres as a supplementary approach to diet. Lipid-lowering drug therapy initiation was mainly recommended (91.7% and 80.0%). In 83.3% of children and 96.7% of adolescents, statins were the most frequently prescribed drug. We highlighted several differences in the treatment of paediatric patients with suspected FH among Italian centres; however, the overall approach is in line with the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) recommendations for FH children and adolescents. We consider this survey as a starting point to reinforce collaboration between LIPIGEN centres and to elaborate in the near future a consensus document on the management of paediatric patients with suspected FH so as to improve and uniform detection, management, and treatment of these patients in our country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pederiva
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Paediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Gazzotti
- Fondazione SISA (Società Italiana per lo Studio dell’Aterosclerosi), 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale e di Precisione, Università La Sapienza di Roma, 00185 Rome, Italy
- AO Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, 90127 Palermo, Italy
- Istituto di Biofisica, Consiglio Nazionale Delle Ricerche, 90146 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Banderali
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Paediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy
| | - Giacomo Biasucci
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy
| | - Marta Brambilla
- Unit of Cell and Molecular Biology in Cardiovascular Diseases, Centro Cardiologico Monzino IRCCS, 20138 Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Sabrina Buonuomo
- Rare Diseases and Medical Genetic Unit, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, 00163 Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabrò
- UOC Cardiologia Clinica a Direzione Universitaria e UTIC, AORN “Sant’Anna e San Sebastiano”, 81100 Caserta, Italy;
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università Degli Studi Della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Cipollone
- Clinica Medica, Centro di Alta Specializzazione per la Prevenzione dell’Aterosclerosi, Centro di Eccellenza ESH per L’ipertensione Arteriosa, Centro di Riferimento Regionale per le Dislipidemie, Ospedale Policlinico SS Annunziata, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Nadia Citroni
- Centro Dislipidemie e Aterosclerosi, Ospedale di Trento, APSS-Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Sergio D’Addato
- UO di Medicina Interna Cardiovascolare, Ambulatorio Dislipidemie, Università di Bologna, 40138 Bologna, Italy
- IRCCS S Orsola, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Del Ben
- AO Policlinico Umberto I, 00161 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, Università La Sapenza di Roma, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Simonetta Genovesi
- Istituto Auxologico Italiano, 20149 Milan, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università di Milano-Bicocca, 20126 Milan, Italy
| | - Ornella Guardamagna
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric Sciences, Turin University, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gabriella Iannuzzo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Iughetti
- U.O.C. Pediatria, Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria di Modena, 41124 Modena, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mandraffino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Lipid Centre, University Hospital G Martino, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Maroni
- Ambulatorio Ipertensione Dislipidemie, UO Medicina Generale, ASST Valle Olona, Ospedale di Gallarate, 21013 Gallarate, Italy
| | - Giuliana Mombelli
- Centro Dislipidemie ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, 20162 Milan, Italy
| | - Sandro Muntoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università Degli Studi di Cagliari, 09124 Cagliari, Italy
- Centro per le Malattie Dismetaboliche e l’Arteriosclerosi, Associazione ME DI CO Onlus Cagliari, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Fabio Nascimbeni
- UO Medicina Interna Metabolica, Lipidology Centre, Baggiovara Hospital, AOU of Modena, 41126 Modena, Italy
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Angelina Passaro
- Centro per lo Studio e il Trattamento Delle Malattie del Metabolismo, Aterosclerosi e Nutrizione Clinica, Azienda Ospedaliera-Universitaria S Anna di Ferrara, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale e per la Romagna, Università degli Studi di Ferrara, 44122 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Fabio Pellegatta
- IRCCS MultiMedica, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
- Centro per lo Studio dell’Aterosclerosi, Ospedale E Bassini, 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Italy
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Sezione Medicina Interna, Angiologia e Malattie da Arteriosclerosi, Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università Degli Studi di Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy
| | - Livia Pisciotta
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino UOSD Dietetica e Nutrizione Clinica, Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Università di Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Roberta Pujia
- Dipartimento Scienze Mediche Chirurgiche, Università Degli Studi Magna Graecia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Riccardo Sarzani
- Clinica Medica e Geriatrica, Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche e Molecolari, Università Politecnica Delle Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- IRCCS-INRCA, 60124 Ancona, Italy
| | - Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Ospedale Garibaldi, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Patrizia Suppressa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Rare Diseases Centre “C. Frugoni”, University Hospital of Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Sabina Zambon
- Dipartimento di Medicina, Università di Padova, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Zenti
- Servizio di Diabetologia e Malattie Metaboliche “Ospedale P. Pederzoli”, Casa di Cura Privata, 37019 Peschiera del Garda, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Calandra
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | | | - Patrizia Tarugi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | | | - Manuela Casula
- IRCCS MultiMedica, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Capra
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy
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9
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Allevi M, Sarnari S, Giulietti F, Spannella F, Di Pentima C, Sarzani R. Painful and recurring injection site reaction to alirocumab and evolocumab in a young woman with familial hypercholesterolemia and effective therapeutic alternative based on inclisiran: a case report. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1181720. [PMID: 37424909 PMCID: PMC10326624 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1181720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
A 28-year-old woman with autosomal dominant familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) with a probable coexistent polygenic contribution causing very high low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, started therapy with the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9-inhibitor (PCSK9i) alirocumab, in addition to high-intensity statin plus ezetimibe. Forty-eight hours after the second injection of alirocumab, the patient developed a painful palpable injection site reaction (ISR) that recurred after the third administration of the drug. Treatment was then switched to evolocumab, another PCSK9i, but the patient had an ISR with similar features. The most conceivable cause of the ISR was a cell-mediated hypersensitivity reaction to polysorbate, an excipient contained in both drugs. Although ISR after PCSK9i administration is usually transient and does not compromise the continuation of treatment, in this case the recurrence of such side effect in an exacerbated way led to treatment withdrawal, with a subsequent re-exposure to increased cardiovascular (CV) risk. As soon as it became available in clinical practice, the patient started treatment with inclisiran, a small interfering RNA targeting hepatic PCSK9 synthesis. No adverse events were reported after inclisiran administration and LDL-C levels decreased significantly, confirming the evidence that this innovative approach to hypercholesterolemia is a safe and effective resource in patients at high CV risk who cannot achieve LDL-C goal with conventional lipid-lowering therapies and antibody-based PCSK9i.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Allevi
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Ancona, Italy
| | - Silvia Sarnari
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Francesco Spannella
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Riccardo Sarzani
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, IRCCS INRCA, Ancona, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, University “Politecnica delle Marche”, Ancona, Italy
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10
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Olmastroni E, Gazzotti M, Averna M, Arca M, Tarugi P, Calandra S, Bertolini S, Catapano AL, Casula M. Lipoprotein(a) Genotype Influences the Clinical Diagnosis of Familial Hypercholesterolemia. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e029223. [PMID: 37183858 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.122.029223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Background Evidence suggests that LPA risk genotypes are a possible contributor to the clinical diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). This study aimed at determining the prevalence of LPA risk variants in adult individuals with FH enrolled in the Italian LIPIGEN (Lipid Transport Disorders Italian Genetic Network) study, with (FH/M+) or without (FH/M-) a causative genetic variant. Methods and Results An lp(a) [lipoprotein(a)] genetic score was calculated by summing the number risk-increasing alleles inherited at rs3798220 and rs10455872 variants. Overall, in the 4.6% of 1695 patients with clinically diagnosed FH, the phenotype was not explained by a monogenic or polygenic cause but by genotype associated with high lp(a) levels. Among 765 subjects with FH/M- and 930 subjects with FH/M+, 133 (17.4%) and 95 (10.2%) were characterized by 1 copy of either rs10455872 or rs3798220 or 2 copies of either rs10455872 or rs3798220 (lp(a) score ≥1). Subjects with FH/M- also had lower mean levels of pretreatment low-density lipoprotein cholesterol than individuals with FH/M+ (t test for difference in means between FH/M- and FH/M+ groups <0.0001); however, subjects with FH/M- and lp(a) score ≥1 had higher mean (SD) pretreatment low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (223.47 [50.40] mg/dL) compared with subjects with FH/M- and lp(a) score=0 (219.38 [54.54] mg/dL for), although not statistically significant. The adjustment of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels based on lp(a) concentration reduced from 68% to 42% the proportion of subjects with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level ≥190 mg/dL (or from 68% to 50%, considering a more conservative formula). Conclusions Our study supports the importance of measuring lp(a) to perform the diagnosis of FH appropriately and to exclude that the observed phenotype is driven by elevated levels of lp(a) before performing the genetic test for FH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Olmastroni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP) University of Milan Italy
| | | | - Maurizio Averna
- Department ProMISE (Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties) University of Palermo Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine Sapienza University of Rome Italy
| | - Patrizia Tarugi
- Department of Life Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Italy
| | - Sebastiano Calandra
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences University of Modena and Reggio Emilia Italy
| | | | - Alberico L Catapano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP) University of Milan Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica Sesto San Giovanni (MI) Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP) University of Milan Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica Sesto San Giovanni (MI) Italy
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11
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Effectiveness of clinical scores in predicting coronary artery disease in familial hypercholesterolemia: a coronary computed tomography angiography study. LA RADIOLOGIA MEDICA 2023; 128:445-455. [PMID: 36877423 PMCID: PMC10119045 DOI: 10.1007/s11547-023-01610-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE One of the major challenges in the management of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is the stratification of cardiovascular risk in asymptomatic subjects. Our purpose is to investigate the performance of clinical scoring systems, Montreal-FH-score (MFHS), SAFEHEART risk (SAFEHEART-RE) and FH risk score (FHRS) equations and Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) diagnostic score, in predicting extent and severity of CAD at coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in asymptomatic FH. MATERIAL AND METHODS One-hundred and thirty-nine asymptomatic FH subjects were prospectively enrolled to perform CCTA. MFHS, FHRS, SAFEHEART-RE and DLCN were assessed for each patient. Atherosclerotic burden scores at CCTA (Agatston score [AS], segment stenosis score [SSS]) and CAD-RADS score were calculated and compared to clinical indices. RESULTS Non-obstructive CAD was found in 109 patients, while 30 patients had a CAD-RADS ≥ 3. Classifying the two groups according to AS, values varied significantly for MFHS (p < 0.001), FHRS (p < 0.001) and SAFEHEART-RE (p = 0.047), while according to SSS only MFHS and FHRS showed significant differences (p < 0.001). MFHS, FHRS and SAFEHEART-RE, but not DLCN, showed significant differences between the two CAD-RADS groups (p < .001). MFHS proved to have the best discriminatory power (AUC = 0.819; 0.703-0.937, p < 0.001) at ROC analysis, followed by FHRS (AUC = 0.795; 0.715-0.875, p < .0001) and SAFEHEART-RE (AUC = .725; .61-.843, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS Greater values of MFHS, FHRS and SAFEHEART-RE are associated to higher risk of obstructive CAD and might help to select asymptomatic patients that should be referred to CCTA for secondary prevention.
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12
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Genetic Heterogeneity of Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Repercussions for Molecular Diagnosis. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043224. [PMID: 36834635 PMCID: PMC9961636 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetics of Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is ascribable to pathogenic variants in genes encoding proteins leading to an impaired LDL uptake by the LDL receptor (LDLR). Two forms of the disease are possible, heterozygous (HeFH) and homozygous (HoFH), caused by one or two pathogenic variants, respectively, in the three main genes that are responsible for the autosomal dominant disease: LDLR, APOB and PCSK9 genes. The HeFH is the most common genetic disease in humans, being the prevalence about 1:300. Variants in the LDLRAP1 gene causes FH with a recessive inheritance and a specific APOE variant was described as causative of FH, contributing to increase FH genetic heterogeneity. In addition, variants in genes causing other dyslipidemias showing phenotypes overlapping with FH may mimic FH in patients without causative variants (FH-phenocopies; ABCG5, ABCG8, CYP27A1 and LIPA genes) or act as phenotype modifiers in patients with a pathogenic variant in a causative gene. The presence of several common variants was also considered a genetic basis of FH and several polygenic risk scores (PRS) have been described. The presence of a variant in modifier genes or high PRS in HeFH further exacerbates the phenotype, partially justifying its variability among patients. This review aims to report the updates on the genetic and molecular bases of FH with their implication for molecular diagnosis.
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13
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Gidding SS, Wiegman A, Groselj U, Freiberger T, Peretti N, Dharmayat KI, Daccord M, Bedlington N, Sikonja J, Ray KK, Santos RD, Halle M, Tokgözoğlu L, Gutiérrez-Ibarluzea I, Pinto FJ, Geanta M. Paediatric familial hypercholesterolaemia screening in Europe: public policy background and recommendations. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2022; 29:2301-2311. [PMID: 36059237 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwac200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is under-recognized and under-treated in Europe leading to significantly higher risk for premature heart disease in those affected. As treatment beginning early in life is highly effective in preventing heart disease and cost-effective in these patients, screening for FH is crucial. It has therefore now been recognized by the European Commission Public Health Best Practice Portal as an effective strategy. Model programmes exist in Europe to identify young individuals with FH, which are based on cascade screening of first-degree relatives of affected individuals, universal screening for high cholesterol, opportunistic screening of high-risk individuals, or a combination of the above approaches. Recommendations presented herein to improve identification of FH emphasize that every country should have an FH screening programme. These programmes should be adapted from existing strategies to best fit the individual country's healthcare system, governments should provide financial support for these programmes and related care, and further research to optimize care and implementations should be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel S Gidding
- The European FH Patient Network (FH Europe), Star House, Star Hill, Rochester, Kent ME1 1UX, UK
| | - Albert Wiegman
- Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Urh Groselj
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Bohoričeva ulica 20, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tomas Freiberger
- Centre for Cardiovascular Surgery and Transplantation, Pekařská 53, 656 91 Brno, Czech Republic.,Medical Faculty, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Noel Peretti
- Department of Pediatric Gastroenterology-Hepatology and Nutrition, Hospices Civil de Lyon HCL, Hôpital Femme Mere Enfant HFME, Bron, France.,Univ-Lyon, CarMeN Laboratory, INSERM U1060, INRAE U1397, Université Claude Bernard Lyon-1, Oullins, Lyon, France
| | - Kanika I Dharmayat
- Imperial Centre for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, St Dunstan's Road, London W6 8RP, UK
| | - Magdalena Daccord
- The European FH Patient Network (FH Europe), Star House, Star Hill, Rochester, Kent ME1 1UX, UK
| | - Nicola Bedlington
- The European FH Patient Network (FH Europe), Star House, Star Hill, Rochester, Kent ME1 1UX, UK
| | - Jaka Sikonja
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Bohoričeva ulica 20, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Kausik K Ray
- Imperial Centre for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, St Dunstan's Road, London W6 8RP, UK
| | - Raul D Santos
- Heart Institute (InCor), University of Sao Paulo Medical School Hospital, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,Preventive Medicine Centre and Cardiology Program, Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Sao Paulo, Brazil.,International Atherosclerosis Society (IAS), Milan, Italy
| | - Martin Halle
- Department of Prevention and Sports Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital 'Klinikum rechts der Isar', Technical University Munich, Munich, Germany.,DZHK (Deutsches Zentrum für Herz-Kreislauf-Forschung), partner site Munich, Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germany
| | - Lale Tokgözoğlu
- Department of Cardiology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Iñaki Gutiérrez-Ibarluzea
- Head of Knowledge Management and Health Technology Assessment, Basque Foundation for Health Innovation and Research (BIOEF), Ronda de Azkue, 1, 48902 Barakaldo (Bizkaia), Basque Country, Spain
| | - Fausto J Pinto
- World Heart Federation, Geneva, Switzerland.,Cardiovascular Department, CCUL, CAML, Lisbon School of Medicine, University of Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Marius Geanta
- The European FH Patient Network (FH Europe), Star House, Star Hill, Rochester, Kent ME1 1UX, UK
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14
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Curia MC, Pignatelli P, D’Antonio DL, D’Ardes D, Olmastroni E, Scorpiglione L, Cipollone F, Catapano AL, Piattelli A, Bucci M, Magni P. Oral Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum Abundance in Subjects in Primary and Secondary Cardiovascular Prevention, with or without Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10092144. [PMID: 36140246 PMCID: PMC9496065 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10092144] [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: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Low-grade chronic inflammation, promoted by dysbiosis of the gut and oral microbiota, has been shown to contribute to individual susceptibility to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). High oral Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and lower Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) concentrations have been associated with clinical and experimental atherosclerosis. We assessed oral Pg and Fn abundance in very high-risk patients with previously diagnosed ASCVD, with or without heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH), in subjects with HeFH in primary prevention and in healthy subjects. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 40 patients with previously diagnosed ASCVD (10 with genetically proven HeFH, and 30 without FH), 26 subjects with HeFH in primary prevention, and 31 healthy subjects were selected to quantify oral Pg and Fn abundance by qPCR and assess oral health status. Results: Compared to healthy subjects, patients with previously diagnosed ASCVD showed greater Pg abundance (1101.3 vs. 192.4, p = 0.03), but similar Fn abundance. HeFH patients with ASCVD had an even greater Pg abundance than did non-HeFH patients and healthy subjects (1770.6 vs. 758.4 vs. 192.4, respectively; p = 0.048). No differences were found in the levels of Pg and Fn abundance in HeFH subjects in primary prevention, as compared to healthy subjects. Conclusions: Greater oral Pg abundance is present in very high-risk patients with previously diagnosed ASCVD, with or without FH, suggesting a potential relationship with CV events. Future studies will assess the predictive value of Pg abundance measurement in ASCVD risk stratification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Curia
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, Università degli Studi “Gabriele d’Annunzio” di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.C.C.); (M.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Pamela Pignatelli
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, Università degli Studi “Gabriele d’Annunzio” di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Sciences, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Domenica Lucia D’Antonio
- Department of Medical, Oral and Biotechnological Sciences, Università degli Studi “Gabriele d’Annunzio” di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Damiano D’Ardes
- Regional Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Hypertension and Dyslipidemia, “SS Annunziata” Hospital—ASL, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- C.A.S.T., Università degli Studi “Gabriele d’Annunzio” di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Luca Scorpiglione
- Regional Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Hypertension and Dyslipidemia, “SS Annunziata” Hospital—ASL, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- C.A.S.T., Università degli Studi “Gabriele d’Annunzio” di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Francesco Cipollone
- Regional Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Hypertension and Dyslipidemia, “SS Annunziata” Hospital—ASL, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- C.A.S.T., Università degli Studi “Gabriele d’Annunzio” di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
| | - Alberico Luigi Catapano
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, 20099 Milan, Italy
| | - Adriano Piattelli
- Master Course in Microsurgery in Odontostomatology, Saint Camillus International University for Health Sciences (Unicamillus), 00131 Rome, Italy
- Fondazione Villaserena per la Ricerca, 65013 Città Sant’Angelo, Pescara, Italy
- Casa di Cura Villa Serena, 65013 Città Sant’Angelo, Pescara, Italy
| | - Marco Bucci
- Regional Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Hypertension and Dyslipidemia, “SS Annunziata” Hospital—ASL, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- C.A.S.T., Università degli Studi “Gabriele d’Annunzio” di Chieti-Pescara, 66100 Chieti, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.C.C.); (M.B.); (P.M.)
| | - Paolo Magni
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, 20099 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.C.C.); (M.B.); (P.M.)
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15
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Palumbo M, Giammanco A, Purrello F, Pavanello C, Mombelli G, Di Pino A, Piro S, Cefalù AB, Calabresi L, Averna M, Bernini F, Zimetti F, Adorni MP, Scicali R. Effects of PCSK9 inhibitors on HDL cholesterol efflux and serum cholesterol loading capacity in familial hypercholesterolemia subjects: a multi-lipid-center real-world evaluation. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:925587. [PMID: 35928226 PMCID: PMC9343790 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.925587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), beyond regulating LDL cholesterol (LDL-c) plasma levels, exerts several pleiotropic effects by modulating lipid metabolism in extrahepatic cells such as macrophages. Macrophage cholesterol homeostasis depends on serum lipoprotein functions, including the HDL capacity to promote cell cholesterol efflux (CEC) and the serum capacity to promote cell cholesterol loading (CLC). The aim of this observational study was to investigate the effect of PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9-i) treatment on HDL-CEC and serum CLC in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). 31 genetically confirmed FH patients were recruited. Blood was collected and serum isolated at baseline and after 6 months of PCSK9-i treatment. HDL-CEC was evaluated through the main pathways with a radioisotopic cell-based assay. Serum CLC was assessed fluorimetrically in human THP-1 monocyte-derived macrophages. After treatment with PCSK9-i, total cholesterol and LDL-c significantly decreased (−41.6%, p < 0.0001 and −56.7%, p < 0.0001, respectively). Total HDL-CEC was not different between patients before and after treatment. Conversely, despite no changes in HDL-c levels between the groups, ABCG1 HDL-CEC significantly increased after treatment (+22.2%, p < 0.0001) as well as HDL-CEC by aqueous diffusion (+7.8%, p = 0.0008). Only a trend towards reduction of ABCA1 HDL-CEC was observed after treatment. PCSK9-i significantly decreased serum CLC (−6.6%, p = 0.0272). This effect was only partly related to the reduction of LDL-c levels. In conclusion, PCSK9-i treatment significantly increased HDL-CEC through ABCG1 and aqueous diffusion pathways and reduced the serum CLC in FH patients. The favorable effect of PCSK9-i on functional lipid profile could contribute to the cardiovascular benefit of these drugs in FH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Antonina Giammanco
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE)—University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Francesco Purrello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Chiara Pavanello
- Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
- Centro Dislipidemie, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milano, Italy
| | - Giuliana Mombelli
- Centro Dislipidemie, ASST Grande Ospedale Metropolitano Niguarda, Milano, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Pino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Angelo Baldassare Cefalù
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE)—University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura Calabresi
- Centro E. Grossi Paoletti, Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (ProMISE)—University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Franco Bernini
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Francesca Zimetti
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
- *Correspondence: Francesca Zimetti,
| | - Maria Pia Adorni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Unit of Neuroscience, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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16
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Sarzani R, Laureti G, Gezzi A, Spannella F, Giulietti F. Single-pill fixed-dose drug combinations to reduce blood pressure: the right pill for the right patient. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2022; 13:20406223221102754. [PMID: 35769133 PMCID: PMC9235298 DOI: 10.1177/20406223221102754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Arterial hypertension is one of the major causes of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Effective and sustained reduction in blood pressure is essential to reduce individual cardiovascular risk. In daily clinical practice, single-pill fixed-dose combinations of different drug classes are important therapeutic resources that could improve both treatment adherence and cardiovascular risk management by targeting distinct pathophysiological mechanisms. The aim of this practical narrative review is to help physicians choosing the right single-pill fixed-dose combination for the right patient in the daily clinical practice, based on the individual clinical phenotype and cardiovascular risk profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Sarzani
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, 'Hypertension Excellence Centre' of the European Society of Hypertension, IRCCS, INRCA, via della Montagnola 81, 60127 Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgia Laureti
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, 'Hypertension Excellence Centre' of the European Society of Hypertension, IRCCS, INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alessandro Gezzi
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, 'Hypertension Excellence Centre' of the European Society of Hypertension, IRCCS, INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Spannella
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, 'Hypertension Excellence Centre' of the European Society of Hypertension, IRCCS, INRCA, Ancona, Italy
| | - Federico Giulietti
- Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, 'Hypertension Excellence Centre' of the European Society of Hypertension, IRCCS, INRCA, Ancona, Italy
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17
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Gazzotti M, Casula M, Bertolini S, Capra ME, Olmastroni E, Catapano AL, Pederiva C. The Role of Registers in Increasing Knowledge and Improving Management of Children and Adolescents Affected by Familial Hypercholesterolemia: the LIPIGEN Pediatric Group. Front Genet 2022; 13:912510. [PMID: 35795214 PMCID: PMC9251337 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.912510] [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: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pathology registers can be a useful tool to overcome obstacles in the identification and management of familial hypercholesterolemia since childhood. In 2018, the LIPIGEN pediatric group was constituted within the Italian LIPIGEN study to focus on FH subjects under 18 years. This work aimed at discussing its recent progress and early outcomes. Demographic, biochemical, and genetic baseline characteristics were collected, with an in-depth analysis of the genetic defects. The analysis was carried out on 1,602 children and adolescents (mean age at baseline 9.9 ± 4.0 years), and almost the whole cohort underwent the genetic test (93.3%). Overall, the untreated mean value of LDL-C was 220.0 ± 97.2 mg/dl, with an increasing gradient from subjects with a negative (N = 317; mean untreated LDL-C = 159.9 ± 47.7 mg/dl), inconclusive (N = 125; mean untreated LDL-C = 166.4 ± 56.5 mg/dl), or positive (N = 1,053; mean untreated LDL-C = 246.5 ± 102.1 mg/dl) genetic diagnosis of FH. In the latter group, the LDL-C values presented a great variability based on the number and the biological impact of involved causative variants. The LIPIGEN pediatric group represents one of the largest cohorts of children with FH, allowing the deepening of the characterization of their baseline and genetic features, providing the basis for further longitudinal investigations for complete details.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuela Casula
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni(Milan), Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
- *Correspondence: Manuela Casula,
| | - Stefano Bertolini
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Capra
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, Piacenza, Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberico Luigi Catapano
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni(Milan), Italy
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Pederiva
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Paediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
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18
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Baragetti A, Casula M, Scarinzi P, Ristè F, Scicali R, Biolo M, Lugari S, Dall'Agata M, Gazzotti M, Olmastroni E, Alieva AS, Nascimbeni F. Achilles tendon ultrasonography in familial hypercholesterolemia: A sub-study of the LIpid transPort disorders Italian GEnetic Network (LIPIGEN). J Intern Med 2022; 291:702-704. [PMID: 34875114 PMCID: PMC9300130 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Baragetti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Centre for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Multimedica Hospital, Sesto San Giovanni, Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- Centre for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Istituto di Ricerca e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Multimedica Hospital, Sesto San Giovanni, Italy.,Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Scarinzi
- U. O. C. Clinica Medica 1, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Federica Ristè
- U. O. Medicina Interna Universitaria, Institute of Internal Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Internal Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Marta Biolo
- U. O. C. Clinica Medica 1, Department of Medicine-DIMED, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Simonetta Lugari
- Unit of Internal and Metabolic Medicine, Civil Hospital of Baggiovara, A. O. U. of Modena and University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Dall'Agata
- U. O. Medicina Interna Universitaria, Institute of Internal Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Marta Gazzotti
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Asiiat S Alieva
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Research Laboratory of Lipid Metabolism Disorders and Atherosclerosis, Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation
| | - Fabio Nascimbeni
- Unit of Internal and Metabolic Medicine, Civil Hospital of Baggiovara, A. O. U. of Modena and University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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19
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Pederiva C, Capra ME, Biasucci G, Banderali G, Fabrizi E, Gazzotti M, Casula M, Catapano AL, Marcello A, Maurizio A, Stefano B, Sebastiano C, Luigi CA, Patrizia T, Fabio P, Marcello A, Maurizio A, Andrea B, Giacomo B, Claudio B, Paolo C, Francesca C, Francesco C, Nadia C, Ben Maria D, Giuliana F, Ornella G, Arcangelo I, Gabriella I, Lorenzo I, Giuseppe M, Lorenzo M, Giuliana M, Sandro M, Gianfranco P, Angelina P, Cristina P, Livia P, Arturo P, Francesco P, Rita RA, Riccardo S, Patrizia S, Pablo WJ, Sabina Z, Grazia ZM, Massimiliano A, Renata A, Davide B, Giuseppe B, Patrizia B, Marco B, Sabrina BP, Elena CM, Baldassarre CA, Giuseppe C, Sergio D, Maria Donata DT, Roberto F, Fabio F, Simonetta G, Liliana G, Graziana L, Sara M, Giulia M, Ilenia M, Tiziana M, Fabio N, Chiara P, Massimo PF, Gaia P, Elena S, Roberto S, Arianna T, Battista VG, Alberto Z, Luigi CA, Manuela C, Federica G, Marta G, Elena O, Veronica Z. Lipoprotein(a) and family history for cardiovascular disease in paediatric patients: A new frontier in cardiovascular risk stratification. Data from the LIPIGEN paediatric group. Atherosclerosis 2022; 349:233-239. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2022.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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20
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Olmastroni E, Gazzotti M, Arca M, Averna M, Pirillo A, Catapano AL, Casula M. Twelve Variants Polygenic Score for Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Distribution in a Large Cohort of Patients With Clinically Diagnosed Familial Hypercholesterolemia With or Without Causative Mutations. J Am Heart Assoc 2022; 11:e023668. [PMID: 35322671 PMCID: PMC9075429 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.121.023668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Background A significant proportion of individuals clinically diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), but without any disease‐causing mutation, are likely to have polygenic hypercholesterolemia. We evaluated the distribution of a polygenic risk score, consisting of 12 low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C)‐raising variants (polygenic LDL‐C risk score), in subjects with a clinical diagnosis of FH. Methods and Results Within the Lipid Transport Disorders Italian Genetic Network (LIPIGEN) study, 875 patients who were FH‐mutation positive (women, 54.75%; mean age, 42.47±15.00 years) and 644 patients who were FH‐mutation negative (women, 54.21%; mean age, 49.73±13.54 years) were evaluated. Patients who were FH‐mutation negative had lower mean levels of pretreatment LDL‐C than patients who were FH‐mutation positive (217.14±55.49 versus 270.52±68.59 mg/dL, P<0.0001). The mean value (±SD) of the polygenic LDL‐C risk score was 1.00 (±0.18) in patients who were FH‐mutation negative and 0.94 (±0.20) in patients who were FH‐mutation positive (P<0.0001). In the receiver operating characteristic analysis, the area under the curve for recognizing subjects characterized by polygenic hypercholesterolemia was 0.59 (95% CI, 0.56–0.62), with sensitivity and specificity being 78% and 36%, respectively, at 0.905 as a cutoff value. Higher mean polygenic LDL‐C risk score levels were observed among patients who were FH‐mutation negative having pretreatment LDL‐C levels in the range of 150 to 350 mg/dL (150–249 mg/dL: 1.01 versus 0.91, P<0.0001; 250–349 mg/dL: 1.02 versus 0.95, P=0.0001). A positive correlation between polygenic LDL‐C risk score and pretreatment LDL‐C levels was observed among patients with FH independently of the presence of causative mutations. Conclusions This analysis confirms the role of polymorphisms in modulating LDL‐C levels, even in patients with genetically confirmed FH. More data are needed to support the use of the polygenic score in routine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Olmastroni
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP) Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences University of Milan Italy
| | - Marta Gazzotti
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP) Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences University of Milan Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine Sapienza University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences Maternal and Infantile Care Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties (PROMISE) School of Medicine University of Palermo Palermo Italy
| | - Angela Pirillo
- IRCCS MultiMedica Sesto S. Giovanni (MI), Milan Italy.,Centre for the Study of Atherosclerosis E. Bassini Hospital, Cinisello Balsamo Milan Italy
| | - Alberico Luigi Catapano
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP) Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences University of Milan Italy.,IRCCS MultiMedica Sesto S. Giovanni (MI), Milan Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP) Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences University of Milan Italy.,IRCCS MultiMedica Sesto S. Giovanni (MI), Milan Italy
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21
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Iannuzzo G, Buonaiuto A, Calcaterra I, Gentile M, Forte F, Tripaldella M, Di Taranto MD, Giacobbe C, Fortunato G, Rubba PO, Di Minno MND. Association between causative mutations and response to PCSK9 inhibitor therapy in subjects with familial hypercholesterolemia: A single center real-world study. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2022; 32:684-691. [PMID: 34991937 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2021.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant disease that leads to cardiovascular (CV) disease. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9-I) demonstrated efficacy in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction and in prevention of CV events. The aim of our study is to evaluate the relationship between LDL receptor (LDLR) mutations and response to PCSK9-I therapy. METHODS AND RESULTS We evaluated total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides (TG) in consecutive patients with FH before PCSK9-I treatment and after 12 (T12w) and 36 (T36w) weeks of treatment. We evaluated LDL-C target achievement according to different mutations in LDLR. Eighty FH subjects (mean age:54 ± 13.3 years), 39 heterozygous (He) with defective LDLR gene mutations, 30 He with null mutations and 11 compound-He or homozygous (Ho) were recruited. At baseline, 69 subjects were under maximal lipid lowering therapy (MLLT) and 11 subjects had statin-intolerance. From baseline to T36w we observed an overall 51% reduction in LDL-C. We found no difference in LDL-C changes between subjects with He-defective mutation and He-null mutations both at T12w (p = 1.00) and T36w (p = 0.538). At T36w, LDL-C target was achieved in 59% of He-defective mutations subjects and in 36% of He-null mutations subgroup (p = 0.069), whereas none of compound-He/Ho-FH achieved LDL-C target. CONCLUSIONS After 36 weeks there were no differences in response to PCSK9-I therapy between different groups of He-FH subjects. Response to PCSK9-I was significantly lower in carriers of compound-He/Ho mutations. Registration number for clinical trials: NCT04313270 extension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Iannuzzo
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessio Buonaiuto
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilenia Calcaterra
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
| | - Marco Gentile
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Forte
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Tripaldella
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria D Di Taranto
- Department of Molecular Medicine e Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Carola Giacobbe
- Department of Molecular Medicine e Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuliana Fortunato
- Department of Molecular Medicine e Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo O Rubba
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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22
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Di Costanzo A, Minicocci I, D'Erasmo L, Commodari D, Covino S, Bini S, Ghadiri A, Ceci F, Maranghi M, Catapano AL, Gazzotti M, Casula M, Montali A, Arca M. Refinement of pathogenicity classification of variants associated with familial hypercholesterolemia: Implications for clinical diagnosis. J Clin Lipidol 2021; 15:822-831. [PMID: 34756585 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The lack of functional evidence for most variants detected during the molecular screening of patients with clinical familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) makes the definitive diagnosis difficult. METHODS A total of 552 variants in LDLR, APOB, PCSK9 and LDLRAP1 genes found in 449 mutation-positive FH (FH/M+) patients were considered. Pathogenicity update was performed following the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines with additional specifications on copy number variants, functional studies, in silico prediction and co-segregation criteria for LDLR, APOB and PCSK9 genes. Pathogenicity of LDLRAP1 variants was updated by using ACMG criteria with no change to original scoring. RESULTS After reclassification, the proportion of FH/M+ carriers of pathogenic (P) or likely pathogenic (LP) variants, and FH/M+ carriers of likely benign (LB) or benign (B) variants, was higher than that defined by standard criteria (81.5% vs. 79.7% and 7.1% vs. 2.7%). The refinement of pathogenicity classification also reduced the percentage of FH with variants of uncertain significance (VUS) (17.7% vs. 11.4%). After adjustment, the FH diagnosis by refined criteria best predicted LDL-C levels (Padj <0.001). Notably, FH with VUS variants had higher LDL-C than those with LB (all Padj ≤ 0.033), but similar to those with LP variants. CONCLUSION Accurate variant interpretation best predicts the increase of LDL-C levels and shows its clinical utility in the molecular diagnosis of FH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Di Costanzo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ilenia Minicocci
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura D'Erasmo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniela Commodari
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Stella Covino
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Bini
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Ameneh Ghadiri
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ceci
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Maranghi
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; I.R.C.C.S. Multimedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Gazzotti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; I.R.C.C.S. Multimedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Montali
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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23
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Lewek J, Konopka A, Starostecka E, Penson PE, Maciejewski M, Banach M. Clinical Features of Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Children and Adults in EAS-FHSC Regional Center for Rare Diseases in Poland. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4302. [PMID: 34640319 PMCID: PMC8509252 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic autosomal co-dominant metabolic disorder leading to elevated circulating concentrations of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Early development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is common in affected patients. We aimed to evaluate the characteristics and differences in the diagnosis and therapy of FH children and adults. Methods: All consecutive patients who were diagnosed with FH, both phenotypically and with genetic tests, were included in this analysis. All patients are a part of the European Atherosclerosis Society FH-Study Collaboration (FHSC) regional center for rare diseases at the Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI) in Lodz, Poland. Results: Of 103 patients with FH, there were 16 children (15.5%) at mean age of 9 ± 3 years and 87 adults aged 41 ± 16; 59% were female. Children presented higher mean levels of total cholesterol, LDL-C, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) measured at the baseline visit (TC 313 vs. 259 mg/dL (8.0 vs. 6.6 mmol/L), p = 0.04; LDL 247 vs. 192 mg/dL (6.3 vs. 4.9 mmol/L), p = 0.02, HDL 53 vs. 48 mg/dL (1.3 vs. 1.2 mmol/L), p = 0.009). Overall, 70% of adult patients and 56% of children were prescribed statins (rosuvastatin or atorvastatin) on admission. Combination therapy (dual or triple) was administered for 24% of adult patients. Furthermore, 13.6% of adult patients and 19% of children reported side effects of statin therapy; most of them complained of muscle pain. Only 50% of adult patients on combination therapy achieved their treatment goals. None of children achieved the treatment goal. CONCLUSIONS Despite a younger age of FH diagnosis, children presented with higher mean levels of LDL-C than adults. There are still urgent unmet needs concerning effective lipid-lowering therapy in FH patients, especially the need for greater use of combination therapy, which may allow LDL-C targets to be met in most of the patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Lewek
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Chair of Nephrology and Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Cardiology and Adult Congenital Heart Diseases, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Konopka
- Regional Rare Disease Centre, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), 93-338 Lodz, Poland; (A.K.); (E.S.)
| | - Ewa Starostecka
- Regional Rare Disease Centre, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), 93-338 Lodz, Poland; (A.K.); (E.S.)
| | - Peter E. Penson
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK;
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Liverpool L7 8TX, UK
| | - Marek Maciejewski
- Department of Cardiology and Adult Congenital Heart Diseases, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Chair of Nephrology and Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz, 93-338 Lodz, Poland
- Department of Cardiology and Adult Congenital Heart Diseases, Polish Mother’s Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), 93-338 Lodz, Poland;
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland
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24
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Lupo MG, Arcidiacono D, Zaramella A, Fimiani F, Calabrò P, Cefalù AB, Averna M, D'Erasmo L, Arca M, De Martin S, Zambon A, Ferri N. Lomitapide does not alter PCSK9 and Lp(a) levels in homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia patients: Analysis on cytokines and lipid profile. ATHEROSCLEROSIS PLUS 2021; 43:7-9. [PMID: 36644506 PMCID: PMC9833247 DOI: 10.1016/j.athplu.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Lomitapide, a drug for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia patients, reduced total and LDL cholesterol but no significant changes were observed on PCSK9 and Lp(a) plasma levels. Some changes of inflammatory mediators were also observed, including hsCRP, which may suggest an anti-inflammatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giovanna Lupo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Diletta Arcidiacono
- Digestive Endoscopy Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Padua, Italy
| | - Alice Zaramella
- Department of Surgery, Oncology and Gastroenterology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Istituto Oncologico Veneto IOV-IRCCS, Padova, Italia
| | - Fabio Fimiani
- A.O.R.N. Sant’Anna e San Sebastiano, Caserta Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabrò
- A.O.R.N. Sant’Anna e San Sebastiano, Caserta Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Naples, Italy
| | - Angelo Baldassare Cefalù
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Laura D'Erasmo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Sara De Martin
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Alberto Zambon
- Department of Medicine, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferri
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
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25
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Di Taranto MD, Giacobbe C, Palma D, Iannuzzo G, Gentile M, Calcaterra I, Guardamagna O, Auricchio R, Di Minno MND, Fortunato G. Genetic spectrum of familial hypercholesterolemia and correlations with clinical expression: Implications for diagnosis improvement. Clin Genet 2021; 100:529-541. [PMID: 34297352 PMCID: PMC9291778 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is the most common genetic disease caused by variants in LDLR, APOB, PCSK9 genes; it is characterized by high levels of LDL‐cholesterol and premature cardiovascular disease. We aim to perform a retrospective analysis of a genetically screened population (528 unrelated patients—342 adults and 186 children) to evaluate the biochemical and clinical correlations with the different genetic statuses. Genetic screening was performed by traditional sequencing and some patients were re‐analyzed by next‐generation‐sequencing. Pathogenic variants, mainly missense in the LDLR gene, were identified in 402/528 patients (76.1%), including 4 homozygotes, 17 compound heterozygotes and 1 double heterozygotes. A gradual increase of LDL‐cholesterol was observed from patients without pathogenic variants to patients with a defective variant, to patients with a null variant and to patients with two variants. Six variants accounted for 51% of patients; a large variability of LDL‐cholesterol was observed among patients carrying the same variant. The frequency of pathogenic variants gradually increased from unlikely FH to definite FH, according to the Dutch Lipid Clinic Network criteria. Genetic diagnosis can help prognostic evaluation of FH patients, discriminating between the different genetic statuses or variant types. Clinical suspicion of FH should be considered even if few symptoms are present or if LDL‐cholesterol is only mildly increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Donata Di Taranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Naples, Italy
| | - Carola Giacobbe
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Palma
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Iannuzzo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Gentile
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ilenia Calcaterra
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Ornella Guardamagna
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Sanità Pubblica e Pediatriche, Università degli Studi di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Renata Auricchio
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Giuliana Fortunato
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Naples, Italy
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Scicali R, Di Pino A, Ferrara V, Rabuazzo AM, Purrello F, Piro S. Effect of PCSK9 inhibitors on pulse wave velocity and monocyte-to-HDL-cholesterol ratio in familial hypercholesterolemia subjects: results from a single-lipid-unit real-life setting. Acta Diabetol 2021; 58:949-957. [PMID: 33745063 PMCID: PMC8187232 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-021-01703-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Subjects with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) are characterized by an increased amount of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) that promotes a continuous inflammatory stimulus. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of PCSK9-i on inflammatory biomarkers, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, monocyte-to-high-density lipoprotein ratio (MHR), and on early atherosclerosis damage analyzed by pulse wave velocity (PWV) in a cohort of FH subjects. METHODS In this prospective observational study, we evaluated 56 FH subjects on high-intensity statins plus ezetimibe and with an off-target LDL-C. All subjects were placed on PCSK9-i therapy and obtained biochemical analysis as well as PWV evaluation at baseline and after six months of PCSK9-i therapy. RESULTS After six months of add-on PCSK9-i therapy, only 42.9% of FH subjects attained LDL-C targets. As expected, a significant reduction of LDL-C (- 49.61%, p < 0.001) was observed after PCSK9-i therapy. Neutrophil count (NC) and MHR were reduced by PCSK9-i (-13.82% and -10.47%, respectively, p value for both < 0.05) and PWV significantly decreased after PCSK9-i therapy (- 20.4%, p < 0.05). Finally, simple regression analyses showed that ∆ PWV was significantly associated with ∆ LDL-C (p < 0.01), ∆ NC and ∆ MHR (p value for both < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, PCSK9-i therapy significantly improved lipid and inflammatory profiles and PWV values in FH subjects; our results support the positive effect of PCSK9-i in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, Via Palermo 636, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Pino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, Via Palermo 636, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - Viviana Ferrara
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, Via Palermo 636, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Maria Rabuazzo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, Via Palermo 636, 95122, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesco Purrello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, Via Palermo 636, 95122, Catania, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Piro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, Via Palermo 636, 95122, Catania, Italy
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D'Erasmo L, Minicocci I, Di Costanzo A, Pigna G, Commodari D, Ceci F, Montali A, Brancato F, Stanca I, Nicolucci A, Ascione A, Galea N, Carbone I, Francone M, Maranghi M, Arca M. Clinical Implications of Monogenic Versus Polygenic Hypercholesterolemia: Long-Term Response to Treatment, Coronary Atherosclerosis Burden, and Cardiovascular Events. J Am Heart Assoc 2021; 10:e018932. [PMID: 33890476 PMCID: PMC8200757 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.120.018932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Background Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) may arise from deleterious monogenic variants in FH‐causing genes as well as from a polygenic cause. We evaluated the relationships between monogenic FH and polygenic hypercholesterolemia in influencing the long‐term response to therapy and the risk of atherosclerosis. Methods and Results A cohort of 370 patients with clinically diagnosed FH were screened for monogenic mutations and a low‐density lipoprotein‐rising genetic risk score >0.69 to identify polygenic cause. Medical records were reviewed to estimate the response to lipid‐lowering therapies and the occurrence of major atherosclerotic cardiovascular events during a median follow‐up of 31.0 months. A subgroup of patients (n=119) also underwent coronary computed tomographic angiography for the evaluation of coronary artery calcium score and severity of coronary stenosis as compared with 135 controls. Two hundred nine (56.5%) patients with hypercholesterolemia were classified as monogenic (FH/M+), 89 (24.1%) as polygenic, and 72 (19.5%) genetically undefined (FH/M−). The response to lipid‐lowering therapy was poorest in monogenic, whereas it was comparable in patients with polygenic hypercholesterolemia and genetically undetermined. Mean coronary artery calcium score and the prevalence of coronary artery calcium >100 units were significantly higher in FH/M+ as compared with both FH/M− and controls. Finally, after adjustments for confounders, we observed a 5‐fold higher risk of incident major atherosclerotic cardiovascular events in FH/M+ (hazard ratio, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.06–21.36; Padj=0.041). Conclusions Monogenic cause of FH is associated with lower response to conventional cholesterol‐lowering therapies as well as with increased burden of coronary atherosclerosis and risk of atherosclerotic‐related events. Genetic testing for hypercholesterolemia is helpful in providing important prognostic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D'Erasmo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Ilenia Minicocci
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Alessia Di Costanzo
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Giovanni Pigna
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Daniela Commodari
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Fabrizio Ceci
- Department of Experimental Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Anna Montali
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Francesca Brancato
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Ilaria Stanca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Antonio Nicolucci
- CORESEARCH Center for Outcomes Research and Clinical Epidemiology Pescara Italy
| | - Andrea Ascione
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Nicola Galea
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Iacopo Carbone
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology "Sapienza" University of Rome, I.C.O.T. Hospital Latina Italy
| | - Marco Francone
- Department of Radiological Sciences, Oncology and Pathology "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Marianna Maranghi
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine "Sapienza" University of Rome Rome Italy
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Pederiva C, Capra ME, Viggiano C, Rovelli V, Banderali G, Biasucci G. Early Prevention of Atherosclerosis: Detection and Management of Hypercholesterolaemia in Children and Adolescents. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11040345. [PMID: 33919973 PMCID: PMC8070896 DOI: 10.3390/life11040345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the main cause of death and morbidity in the world. There is a strong evidence that the atherosclerotic process begins in childhood and that hypercholesterolaemia is a CHD major risk factor. Hypercholesterolaemia is a modifiable CHD risk factor and there is a tracking of hypercholesterolaemia from birth to adulthood. Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is the most common primitive cause of hypercholesterolaemia, affecting 1:200–250 individuals. Early detection and treatment of hypercholesterolaemia in childhood can literally “save decades of life”, as stated in the European Atherosclerosis Society Consensus. Multiple screening strategies have been proposed. In 2008, the American Academy of Pediatrics published the criteria for targeted screening, while some expert panels recommend universal screening particularly in the young, although cost effectiveness has not been fully analysed. Blood lipid profile evaluation [total cholesterol, Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglycerides] is the first step. It has to be ideally performed between two and ten years of age. Hypercholesterolaemia has to be confirmed with a second sample and followed by the detection of family history for premature (before 55 years in men and 60 years in women) or subsequent cardio-vascular events and/or hypercholesterolaemia in 1st and 2nd degree relatives. The management of hypercholesterolaemia in childhood primarily involves healthy lifestyle and a prudent low-fat diet, emphasising the benefits of the Mediterranean diet. Statins are the cornerstone of the drug therapy approved in USA and in Europe for use in children. Ezetimibe or bile acid sequestrants may be required to attain LDL-C goal in some patients. Early identification of children with severe hypercholesterolaemia or with FH is important to prevent atherosclerosis at the earliest stage of development, when maximum benefit can still be obtained via lifestyle adaptations and therapy. The purpose of our review is to highlight the importance of prevention and treatment of hypercholesterolaemia starting from the earliest stages of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pederiva
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Pediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy; (C.P.); (C.V.); (V.R.); (G.B.)
| | - Maria Elena Capra
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Claudia Viggiano
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Pediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy; (C.P.); (C.V.); (V.R.); (G.B.)
| | - Valentina Rovelli
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Pediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy; (C.P.); (C.V.); (V.R.); (G.B.)
| | - Giuseppe Banderali
- Clinical Service for Dyslipidaemias, Study and Prevention of Atherosclerosis in Childhood, Pediatrics Unit, ASST-Santi Paolo e Carlo, 20142 Milan, Italy; (C.P.); (C.V.); (V.R.); (G.B.)
| | - Giacomo Biasucci
- Centre for Paediatric Dyslipidaemias, Paediatrics and Neonatology Unit, Guglielmo da Saliceto Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy;
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Gelzo M, Di Taranto MD, Bisecco A, D’Amico A, Capuano R, Giacobbe C, Caputo M, Cirillo M, Tedeschi G, Fortunato G, Corso G. A case of Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis with spinal cord involvement and without tendon xanthomas: identification of a new mutation of the CYP27A1 gene. Acta Neurol Belg 2021; 121:561-566. [PMID: 31875301 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-019-01267-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis (CTX) is an autosomal recessive defect of the alternative pathway of bile acid biosynthesis, due to the deficiency of mitochondrial cytochrome P450 sterol 27-hydroxylase enzyme encoded by CYP27A1. The deficit of sterol 27-hydroxylase raises cholestanol in plasma and tissues of affected patients. Although there is a marked variability of signs, symptoms, severity and age of onset, the main clinical manifestations of CTX include chronic diarrhea, bilateral cataract, tendon xanthomas and neurological dysfunction. Herein, we report the clinical, biochemical and molecular characterization of a Caucasian female affected by CTX diagnosed at 28 years. The patient's clinical history revealed neurological and behavioral manifestations already at fifth year of life, following by bilateral cataract and chronic diarrhea without xanthomas. At diagnosis, an involvement of the cervical spinal cord was also observed on MRI. Sterols profile analysis in plasma and red blood cell membranes showed very high cholestanol levels. CYP27A1 sequencing revealed a new variant (e.g., c.850_854delinsCTC) at homozygous status. The follow-up after 5 months of chenodeoxycholic acid treatment showed a decrease of plasma cholestanol of 64%. After 1 year, the patient showed normalization of bowel function, reduction of risk of falls, improvement of cognitive function although brain and spine MRI and other instrumental examinations remained unchanged. This case highlights the variability of the CTX phenotype that makes it difficult to reach an early diagnosis. Biochemical and/or molecular screening of CTX should be taken into account to early start the pharmacological treatment limiting neurological damages.
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Vlad CE, Foia L, Florea L, Costache II, Covic A, Popescu R, Reurean-Pintilei D, Covic A. Evaluation of cardiovascular risk factors in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia from the North-Eastern area of Romania. Lipids Health Dis 2021; 20:4. [PMID: 33430859 PMCID: PMC7798287 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-020-01428-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Familial hypercholesterolemia(FH) is one of the most frequent and important monogenic cholesterol pathologies. Traditional and non-traditional cardiovascular risk factors increase the prevalence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease(ASCVD) in this population. The aims of the study were: (a) to identify FH patients in the North-Eastern part of Romania and to analyze demographic, clinical and paraclinical data (b) to evaluate the risk of new cardiovascular events at follow-up in FH patients stratified by lipid-lowering agents. Methods This first prospective study in the North-Eastern part of Romania was carried out between October 2017 and October 2019; out of 980 patients with dyslipidemia evaluated with the Dutch Lipid Network(DLCN) and Simon Broome(SM) scores, 61 patients with DLCN score above 3 and possible/probable FH(SM score) were included. Results Nine hundred-eighty patients were examined and 61 (6.2%) were received the clinical diagnosis of FH. The mean age was 48.5±12.5 years, with more female patients than male patients (63.9% versus 36%). Hypertension was the main cardiovascular risk factor for both genders, followed by physical inactivity and obesity for the female group and active smoking for the male group. The measured DLCN score recorded: “possible” FH identified in 39.4%, “probable” FH in 45.9% and “definite” FH in 14.7%. The effective lipid-lowering drugs used were statin alone and statin in association with fenofibrate, which improved both the lipid profile values and the subclinical atherosclerosis markers (ankle-brachial index, carotid intima-media thickness and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein). New ASCVDs that emerged during the study were most commonly represented by coronary heart disease and stroke. At the same time, the new cardiovascular events were delayed in patients receiving the lipid-lowering drugs, without significant differences between them. Conclusions In patients with suspected FH, the lipid-lowering agents during the follow-up period delayed the new cardiovascular events, yet failed to reach the goals proposed by the guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiana-Elena Vlad
- Department of Nephrology-Internal Medicine, "Dr. C. I. Parhon" Clinical Hospital, Iasi, Romania.,Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania
| | - Liliana Foia
- Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania.
| | - Laura Florea
- Department of Nephrology-Internal Medicine, "Dr. C. I. Parhon" Clinical Hospital, Iasi, Romania.,Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania
| | - Irina-Iuliana Costache
- Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania
| | - Andreea Covic
- Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania
| | - Roxana Popescu
- Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania
| | - Delia Reurean-Pintilei
- Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania
| | - Adrian Covic
- Department of Nephrology-Internal Medicine, "Dr. C. I. Parhon" Clinical Hospital, Iasi, Romania.,Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania; Universitatii street, 700115, Iasi, Romania.,The Academy of Romanian Scientists, Bucharest, Romania
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31
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Caponio GR, Wang DQH, Di Ciaula A, De Angelis M, Portincasa P. Regulation of Cholesterol Metabolism by Bioactive Components of Soy Proteins: Novel Translational Evidence. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 22:ijms22010227. [PMID: 33379362 PMCID: PMC7794713 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypercholesterolemia represents one key pathophysiological factor predisposing to increasing risk of developing cardiovascular disease worldwide. Controlling plasma cholesterol levels and other metabolic risk factors is of paramount importance to prevent the overall burden of disease emerging from cardiovascular-disease-related morbidity and mortality. Dietary cholesterol undergoes micellization and absorption in the small intestine, transport via blood, and uptake in the liver. An important amount of cholesterol originates from hepatic synthesis, and is secreted by the liver into bile together with bile acids (BA) and phospholipids, with all forming micelles and vesicles. In clinical medicine, dietary recommendations play a key role together with pharmacological interventions to counteract the adverse effects of chronic hypercholesterolemia. Bioactive compounds may also be part of initial dietary plans. Specifically, soybean contains proteins and peptides with biological activity on plasma cholesterol levels and this property makes soy proteins a functional food. Here, we discuss how soy proteins modulate lipid metabolism and reduce plasma cholesterol concentrations in humans, with potential outcomes in improving metabolic- and dyslipidemia-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giusy Rita Caponio
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, via Amendola 165/a, 70126 Bari, Italy;
- Division of Internal Medicine Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - David Q.-H. Wang
- Department of Medicine and Genetics, Division of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Marion Bessin Liver Research Center, Einstein-Mount Sinai Diabetes Research Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
| | - Agostino Di Ciaula
- Division of Internal Medicine Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy;
| | - Maria De Angelis
- Department of Soil, Plant and Food Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, via Amendola 165/a, 70126 Bari, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.D.A.); (P.P.); Tel.: +39-080-5442949 (M.D.A.); +39-080-5478893 (P.P.)
| | - Piero Portincasa
- Division of Internal Medicine Clinica Medica “A. Murri”, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70124 Bari, Italy;
- Correspondence: (M.D.A.); (P.P.); Tel.: +39-080-5442949 (M.D.A.); +39-080-5478893 (P.P.)
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Blanda V, Bracale UM, Di Taranto MD, Fortunato G. Galectin-3 in Cardiovascular Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239232. [PMID: 33287402 PMCID: PMC7731136 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a β-galactoside-binding protein belonging to the lectin family with pleiotropic regulatory activities and several physiological cellular functions, such as cellular growth, proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, cellular adhesion, and tissue repair. Inflammation, tissue fibrosis and angiogenesis are the main processes in which Gal-3 is involved. It is implicated in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including organ fibrosis, chronic inflammation, cancer, atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review aims to explore the connections of Gal-3 with cardiovascular diseases since they represent a major cause of morbidity and mortality. We herein discuss the evidence on the pro-inflammatory role of Gal-3 in the atherogenic process as well as the association with plaque features linked to lesion stability. We report the biological role and molecular mechanisms of Gal-3 in other CVDs, highlighting its involvement in the development of cardiac fibrosis and impaired myocardium remodelling, resulting in heart failure and atrial fibrillation. The role of Gal-3 as a prognostic marker of heart failure is described together with possible diagnostic applications to other CVDs. Finally, we report the tentative use of Gal-3 inhibition as a therapeutic approach to prevent cardiac inflammation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Blanda
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (G.F.)
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia, via Gino Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy
| | - Umberto Marcello Bracale
- Dipartimento di Sanità Pubblica, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Maria Donata Di Taranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (G.F.)
- CEINGE S.C.a r.l. Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-081-7463530
| | - Giuliana Fortunato
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (G.F.)
- CEINGE S.C.a r.l. Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy
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Gazzotti M, Casula M, Olmastroni E, Averna M, Arca M, Catapano AL. How registers could enhance knowledge and characterization of genetic dyslipidaemias: The experience of the LIPIGEN in Italy and of other networks for familial hypercholesterolemia. ATHEROSCLEROSIS SUPP 2020; 42:e35-e40. [PMID: 33589222 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosissup.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a common genetic disorder of lipid metabolism, still underdiagnosed and undertreated in the general population. Pathology registers could play a crucial role in the creation of a comprehensive and integrated global approach to cover all aspects of this disease. Systematic data collection of patients affected by FH has increased dramatically worldwide in the past few years. Moreover, results from registers already established for the longest time showed their potentialities in the implementation of the knowledge of FH, comparing country-specific approaches and providing real-world data about identification, management and treatment of FH individuals in the clinical practice. The potential fields of research through registers are related to the deepening of the genetic basis of disease, the study of genotype-phenotype correlation, the local adaption and implementation of diagnostic algorithms, the comparison of pharmacological approaches and treatment gaps in real-life clinical practice, the evaluation of specific subpopulations, and the identification of factors modifying cardiovascular disease risk. Registers could become also a valid resource for other rare dyslipidaemias, contributing towards the evidence-based enhancement in the worldwide care of uncommon diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Gazzotti
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
| | - Manuela Casula
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni (MI), Italy
| | - Elena Olmastroni
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department ProMISE (Department of Health Promotion, Mother and Child Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties), University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Marcello Arca
- Department of Translational and Precision Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy; IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto San Giovanni (MI), Italy
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Baragetti A, Bonacina F, Da Dalt L, Moregola A, Zampoleri V, Pellegatta F, Grigore L, Pirillo A, Spina R, Cefalù AB, Averna M, Norata GD, Catapano AL. Genetically determined hypercholesterolaemia results into premature leucocyte telomere length shortening and reduced haematopoietic precursors. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2020; 29:721-729. [PMID: 33624064 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwaa115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Leucocyte telomere length (LTL) shortening is a marker of cellular senescence and associates with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). A number of cardiovascular risk factors affect LTL, but the correlation between elevated LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) and shorter LTL is debated: in small cohorts including subjects with a clinical diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). We assessed the relationship between LDL-C and LTL in subjects with genetic familial hypercholesterolaemia (HeFH) compared to those with clinically diagnosed, but not genetically confirmed FH (CD-FH), and normocholesterolaemic subjects. METHODS AND RESULTS LTL was measured in mononuclear cells-derived genomic DNA from 206 hypercholesterolaemic subjects (135 HeFH and 71 CD-FH) and 272 controls. HeFH presented shorter LTL vs. controls (1.27 ± 0.07 vs. 1.59 ± 0.04, P = 0.045). In particular, we found shorter LTL in young HeFH as compared to young controls (<35 y) (1.34 ± 0.08 vs. 1.64 ± 0.08, P = 0.019); moreover, LTL was shorter in statin-naïve HeFH subjects as compared to controls (1.23 ± 0.08 vs. 1.58 ± 0.04, P = 0.001). HeFH subjects presented shorter LTL compared to LDL-C matched CD-FH (1.33 ± 0.05 vs. 1.55 ± 0.08, P = 0.029). Shorter LTL was confirmed in leucocytes of LDLR-KO vs. wild-type mice and associated with lower abundance of long-term haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (LT-HSPCs) in the bone marrow. Accordingly, HeFH subjects presented lower circulating haematopoietic precursors (CD34 + CD45dim cells) vs. CD-FH and controls. CONCLUSIONS We found (i) shorter LTL in genetically determined hypercholesterolaemia, (ii) lower circulating haematopoietic precursors in HeFH subjects, and reduced bone marrow resident LT-HSPCs in LDLR-KO mice. We support early cellular senescence and haematopoietic alterations in subjects with FH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Baragetti
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy.,SISA Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Bassini Hospital, Via M. Gorki 50, 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Bonacina
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Da Dalt
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Moregola
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Veronica Zampoleri
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy.,SISA Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Bassini Hospital, Via M. Gorki 50, 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Italy
| | - Fabio Pellegatta
- IRCCS Multimedica Hospital, Via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Liliana Grigore
- IRCCS Multimedica Hospital, Via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Angela Pirillo
- IRCCS Multimedica Hospital, Via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | - Rossella Spina
- Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica Di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (PROMISE), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Angelo Baldassarre Cefalù
- Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica Di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (PROMISE), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Dipartimento di Promozione della Salute, Materno Infantile, Medicina Interna e Specialistica Di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (PROMISE), Università degli Studi di Palermo, Via del Vespro 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giuseppe D Norata
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy.,SISA Center for the Study of Atherosclerosis, Bassini Hospital, Via M. Gorki 50, 20092 Cinisello Balsamo, Milan, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133 Milan, Italy.,IRCCS Multimedica Hospital, Via Milanese 300, 20099 Sesto San Giovanni, Milan, Italy
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Scicali R, Russo GI, Di Mauro M, Manuele F, Di Marco G, Di Pino A, Ferrara V, Rabuazzo AM, Piro S, Morgia G, Purrello F. Analysis of Arterial Stiffness and Sexual Function after Adding on PCSK9 Inhibitor Treatment in Male Patients with Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Single Lipid Center Real-World Experience. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113597. [PMID: 33171638 PMCID: PMC7695132 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) subjects have high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and may be at high risk of erectile dysfunction and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. We evaluated the effect of PCSK9-i on sexual function evaluated by the Male Sexual Health Questionnaire (MSHQ) and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire and on pulse wave velocity (PWV) in FH male subjects. In this prospective observational study, we evaluated 30 FH male patients on high-intensity statins plus ezetimibe and with an LDL-C off-target. All patients added PCSK9-i treatment and obtained clinical assessment at baseline and after six months of PCSK9-i. As expected, LDL-C significantly decreased after adding-on PCSK9-i (-48.73%, p < 0.001). MSHQ and PWV significantly improved after adding-on PCSK9-i (for MSHQ 93.63 ± 6.28 vs. 105.41 ± 5.86, p < 0.05; for PWV 9.86 ± 1.51 vs. 7.7 ± 1.42, p < 0.05); no significant change of IIEF-5 was found. Finally, a simple regression showed that ∆ MSHQ was significantly associated with ∆ LDL-C and ∆ PWV (p value for both <0.05). In conclusion, PCSK9-i therapy significantly improves lipid profile, PWV, and sexual function in FH male patients; our results support the favorable function of PCSK9-i on these parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0957598401; Fax: +39-0957598421
| | - Giorgio Ivan Russo
- Urology Section, Department of Surgery, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.I.R.); (M.D.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Marina Di Mauro
- Urology Section, Department of Surgery, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.I.R.); (M.D.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Flavia Manuele
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia Di Marco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Pino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Viviana Ferrara
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Agata Maria Rabuazzo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Morgia
- Urology Section, Department of Surgery, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (G.I.R.); (M.D.M.); (G.M.)
| | - Francesco Purrello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95100 Catania, Italy; (F.M.); (G.D.M.); (A.D.P.); (V.F.); (A.M.R.); (S.P.); (F.P.)
- Internal Medicine, Garibaldi Hospital, 95122 Catania, Italy
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Bertolini S, Calandra S, Arca M, Averna M, Catapano AL, Tarugi P, Bartuli A, Bucci M, Buonuomo PS, Calabrò P, Casula M, Cefalù AB, Cicero A, D'Addato S, D'Erasmo L, Fasano T, Iannuzzo G, Ibba A, Negri EA, Pasta A, Pavanello C, Pisciotta L, Rabacchi C, Ripoli C, Sampietro T, Sbrana F, Sileo F, Suppressa P, Trenti C, Zenti MG. Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia in Italy: Clinical and molecular features. Atherosclerosis 2020; 312:72-78. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Long term follow-up of genetically confirmed patients with familial hypercholesterolemia treated with first and second-generation statins and then with PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies. Atherosclerosis 2020; 308:6-14. [PMID: 32771803 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In Italy, the clinical and genetic characteristics of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) have been extensively assessed in various lipid clinics, although no studies on long-term cardiovascular outcomes in heterozygous patients (He-FH) have been conducted. This study evaluated the incidence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in He-FH before and after a long-term period of lipid-lowering treatments to ascertain the interference of other risk factors. METHODS A total of 294 genetically characterised He-FH subjects from 1989 to 2019 were retrospectively analysed. General characteristics, lipid profiles, ASCVD prevalence, and ultrasound carotid atherosclerosis assessment were evaluated. Primary end points were ASCVD outcomes and the percentage of patients reaching recommended LDL-C targets. RESULTS During follow-up, despite a significant improvement in plasma lipid profiles, the ESC/EAS 2016 and 2019 recommended LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) goals were attained in only a few patients treated with anti-PCSK9 monoclonal antibodies added to the maximum tolerated oral therapy with statins plus ezetimibe. Forty-seven subjects had an ASCVD event before starting lipid-lowering therapy (LLT). During follow-up (median 13 years) on LLT, 28 patients had a first ASCVD event and 16 had recurrent ASCVD. In basal conditions and during follow-up, higher LDL-C levels were associated with increased ASCVD risk (p < 0.001). Prevention of recurrent ASCVD events was recorded with a long-term reduction of LDL-C below 100 mg/dl with statins plus ezetimibe. CONCLUSIONS PCSK9 inhibition is the only therapeutic option to achieve LDL-C goals as recommended for He-FH and can prevent ASCVD events as reported in large clinical trials. Long-term treatment with statins and ezetimibe seems to be effective at preventing ASCVD recurrence when LDL-C is maintained below 130 and 100 mg/dL for primary and secondary prevention, respectively.
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38
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Gulizia MM, Maggioni AP, Abrignani MG, Bilato C, Mangiacapra F, Sanchez FA, Piovaccari G, Montagna L, Marini M, De Biasio M, Averna M, Casula M, Colivicchi F, Fabbri G, Lucci D, Zampoleri V, Catapano AL. Prevalence Of familial hypercholeSTerolaemia (FH) in Italian Patients with coronary artERy disease: The POSTER study. Atherosclerosis 2020; 308:32-38. [PMID: 32823190 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a powerful risk factor for cardiovascular (CV) events. High levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) since birth are linked to the early onset of atherosclerotic disease. A genetic mutation determining FH is present in about one subject out of 250; FH should be more represented among subjects with a documented diagnosis of coronary artery disease (CAD). The POSTER Study evaluated the prevalence of FH in Italian patients with a recent CAD event. METHODS Eighty-two cardiology centres enrolled patients with a documented CAD event; CV risk profile, drug therapy and biochemical parameters were collected. Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) criteria were used to define patients with a potential FH diagnosis (score ≥6); these patients underwent molecular testing for genetic diagnosis of FH. RESULTS Overall, 5415 patients were enrolled and the main index events were myocardial infarction with ST-elevation, non ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (ACS), or a recent coronary revascularization (34.8%, 37.2%, and 28% respectively). Mean age was 66 ± 11 years, men were 78%; about 40% were already treated with statins, proportion that increased after the acute event (96.5%). Based on the DLCN score, the prevalence of potential FH was 5.1%, 0.9% of them had a diagnosis of definite FH (score >8). These patients were younger than patients with a score <6 (56 ± 10 vs 66 ± 11, p < 0.001), and LDL-C levels were in most of them (~87%) >190 mg/dL. FH was genetically confirmed in 42 subjects (15.9%); genetic diagnosis was defined as not conclusive for FH in 63 patients (23.9%). Finally, in 159 subjects (60.2%) no pathogenic mutations in the tested genes were identified, defining them as negative for monogenic familial hypercholesterolemia. CONCLUSIONS Results underscore a relatively high prevalence of potential FH in patients with a recent CAD event. Therefore, an early identification of these subjects may help improve the management of their high CV risk and, by cascade screening, identify possible FH relatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele Massimo Gulizia
- Cardiology Division, Ospedale Garibaldi-Nesima, Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e Alta Specializzazione "Garibaldi" Catania, Italy; Heart Care Foundation, Florence, Italy.
| | - Aldo P Maggioni
- ANMCO Research Center of the Heart Care Foundation, Florence, Italy.
| | | | - Claudio Bilato
- Division of Cardiology, West Vicenza General Hospitals, Arzignano, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Laura Montagna
- Cardiology Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria San Luigi Gonzaga, Orbassano, Italy
| | - Marco Marini
- Cardiology Department, Riuniti Hospital, Ancona, Italy
| | - Marzia De Biasio
- Cardiology Department, Santa Maria Della Misericordia Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Maurizio Averna
- Department of Health Promotion Sciences, Maternal and Infant Care, Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Manuela Casula
- Epidemiology and Preventive Pharmacology Service (SEFAP), Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DiSFeB), University of Milan, Italy; IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Gianna Fabbri
- ANMCO Research Center of the Heart Care Foundation, Florence, Italy
| | - Donata Lucci
- ANMCO Research Center of the Heart Care Foundation, Florence, Italy
| | - Veronica Zampoleri
- Department of Excellence of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DisFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy; SISA Centre, Bassini Hospital, Cinisello Balsamo, Italy
| | - Alberico L Catapano
- IRCCS MultiMedica, Sesto S. Giovanni, Milan, Italy; Department of Excellence of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences (DisFeB), University of Milan, Milan, Italy
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Hendricks-Sturrup RM, Clark-LoCascio J, Lu CY. A Global Review on the Utility of Genetic Testing for Familial Hypercholesterolemia. J Pers Med 2020; 10:E23. [PMID: 32295171 PMCID: PMC7354443 DOI: 10.3390/jpm10020023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder of cholesterol metabolism that affects an estimated 1/250 persons in the United States and abroad. FH is hallmarked by high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and an increased risk of premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This review summarizes recent global evidence showing the utility of FH genetic testing across diverse populations. Clinical and other qualitative outcomes following FH genetic testing were improved FH diagnosis, treatment initiation or continued treatment, treatment modification, improved total or LDL cholesterol levels, education on lifestyle management, and genetic counseling. This summary of evidence should be considered by those seeking overall evidence and knowledge gaps on the utility of FH genetic testing from a global perspective and for certain ethnic and age populations. These findings can be used to inform insurance policies and coverage decisions for FH genetic testing, policy recommendations to reduce the clinical and public health burden of FH, clinical practice and guidelines to improve the management of FH populations, and ongoing research involving FH genetic testing. We conclude that further investigations are needed to examine: (1) non-clinical outcomes following FH genetic testing; (2) patient-reported outcomes following FH genetic testing to convey patient experiences, values, and goals; and (3) clinical outcomes following FH genetic testing in non-Caucasian and pediatric populations in the United States and abroad.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachele M. Hendricks-Sturrup
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
| | - Jodi Clark-LoCascio
- Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33314, USA;
| | - Christine Y. Lu
- Department of Population Medicine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA;
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Di Taranto MD, Giacobbe C, Fortunato G. Familial hypercholesterolemia: A complex genetic disease with variable phenotypes. Eur J Med Genet 2020; 63:103831. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmg.2019.103831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2019] [Revised: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 12/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Bianconi V, Banach M, Pirro M. Why patients with familial hypercholesterolemia are at high cardiovascular risk? Beyond LDL-C levels. Trends Cardiovasc Med 2020; 31:205-215. [PMID: 32205033 DOI: 10.1016/j.tcm.2020.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a common genetic cause of elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) due to defective clearance of circulating LDL particles. All FH patients are at high risk for premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) events due to their genetically determined lifelong exposure to high LDL-C levels. However, different rates of CVD events have been reported in FH patients, even among those with the same genetic mutations and comparable LDL-C levels. Hence, additional CVD risk modifiers, beyond LDL-C, may contribute to increase CVD risk in the FH population. In this review, we discuss the overall CVD risk burden of the FH population. Additionally, we revise the prognostic impact of several traditional and emerging predictors of CVD risk and we provide an overview of the role of specific tools to stratify CVD risk in FH patients in order to ensure them a more personalized treatment approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Bianconi
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Hospital "Santa Maria della Misericordia", Piazzale Menghini, 1, 06129 Perugia, Italy
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Chair of Nephrology and Hypertension, WAM University Hospital in Lodz, Medical University of Lodz, Zeromskiego 113, 90-549 Lodz, Poland; Polish Mother's Memorial Hospital Research Institute (PMMHRI), Lodz, Poland.
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Unit of Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Perugia, Hospital "Santa Maria della Misericordia", Piazzale Menghini, 1, 06129 Perugia, Italy.
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Barale C, Bonomo K, Frascaroli C, Morotti A, Guerrasio A, Cavalot F, Russo I. Platelet function and activation markers in primary hypercholesterolemia treated with anti-PCSK9 monoclonal antibody: A 12-month follow-up. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2020; 30:282-291. [PMID: 31653513 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2019.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS In the association between hypercholesterolemia (HC) and thrombotic risk platelet hyper-reactivity plays an important role. The inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) to reduce plasma LDL-cholesterol merges as effective therapeutic strategy to prevent cardiovascular (CV) events. Aim of this study was to verify whether a treatment up to 12 months with the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) anti-PCSK9 influences platelet function in primary HC. METHODS AND RESULTS In patients affected by primary HC (n = 24), all on background of statin and 17 on acetyl salicylic acid (ASA), platelet function parameters were evaluated at baseline up to 12 months of treatment with the mAb anti-PCSK9 alirocumab or evolocumab. From baseline, the treatment with anti-PCSK9 mAbs: i) in ASA HC patients, significantly decreased platelet aggregation detected in platelet-rich plasma by light transmission aggregometry and in whole blood Platelet Function Analyzer-100 assay; ii) in all HC patients, significantly decreased platelet membrane expression of CD62P and plasma levels of the in vivo platelet activation markers soluble CD40 Ligand, Platelet Factor-4, and soluble P-Selectin. Furthermore, CD62P expression, and sP-Selectin, PF-4, sCD40L levels significantly correlated with serum PCSK9. CONCLUSION Besides markedly lowering LDL-c levels, our results suggest that HC patients benefit from anti-PCSK9 mAb treatment also for reducing platelet reactivity and increasing platelet sensitivity to the inhibitory effects of aspirin. These effects on platelets could play a role in the reduction of CV event incidence in patients treated with PCSK9 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Barale
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences of Turin University, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Katia Bonomo
- Metabolic Disease and Diabetes Unit, San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Chiara Frascaroli
- Metabolic Disease and Diabetes Unit, San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Morotti
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences of Turin University, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Angelo Guerrasio
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences of Turin University, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Franco Cavalot
- Metabolic Disease and Diabetes Unit, San Luigi Gonzaga Hospital, Orbassano, Turin, Italy
| | - Isabella Russo
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences of Turin University, Orbassano, Turin, Italy.
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Mandraffino G, Scicali R, Rodríguez-Carrio J, Savarino F, Mamone F, Scuruchi M, Cinquegrani M, Imbalzano E, Di Pino A, Piro S, Rabuazzo AM, Squadrito G, Purrello F, Saitta A. Arterial stiffness improvement after adding on PCSK9 inhibitors or ezetimibe to high-intensity statins in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia: A Two-Lipid Center Real-World Experience. J Clin Lipidol 2020; 14:231-240. [PMID: 32111581 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacl.2020.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2019] [Revised: 12/29/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is characterized by increased cardiovascular risk; despite-high intensity statins, only few patients with FH achieve the recommended low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) targets. OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of six-month add-on therapy with proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9-i) or ezetimibe on lipid profile and pulse wave velocity (PWV) in patients with FH. METHODS In this observational study, we evaluated 98 genetically confirmed patients with FH with an LDL-C off-target despite high-intensity statins with or without ezetimibe; of these, 53 patients (statin plus ezetimibe) added PCSK9-i (PCSK9-i group) and 45 (statin only) added ezetimibe (EZE group) per applicable guidelines and reimbursement rules. All patients obtained biochemical analysis and PWV evaluation at baseline and after six months of optimized treatment. RESULTS After 6 months of add-on therapy, most patients achieving LDL-C targets were in the PCSK9-i group (77.3% PCSK9-i group vs 37.8% EZE group, P < .001). The PCSK9-i group achieved both a greater LDL-C and PWV reduction than the EZE group [-51% vs -22.8%, P < .001 and -15% vs -8.5%, P < .01, respectively]. In a linear regression analysis, we showed a coefficient (r) of 0.334 for the relationship between ΔPWV and ΔLDL (P < .05); moreover, in an exploratory analysis, the relationship appeared to be stronger in patients with FH without cardiovascular events (r = 0.422, P < .01). CONCLUSIONS Lipid and PWV profiles in patients with FH significantly improved after addition of PCSK9-i or ezetimibe to high-intensity statin therapy; moreover, ΔPWV was associated with ΔLDL. Our results are consistent with a beneficial role of these novel therapies in FH subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberto Scicali
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Javier Rodríguez-Carrio
- Department of Functional Biology, Area of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain; Area of Metabolism, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Del Principado de Asturias (ISPA), Oviedo, Spain; Bone and Mineral Research Unit, Instituto Reina Sofía de Investigación Nefrológica, RED in REN Del ISCIII, Hospital Universitario Central de Asturias, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Francesca Savarino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Federica Mamone
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Michele Scuruchi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Cinquegrani
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Egidio Imbalzano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Di Pino
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Piro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Squadrito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Purrello
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Italy
| | - Antonino Saitta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Italy
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Di Taranto MD, Giacobbe C, Buonaiuto A, Calcaterra I, Palma D, Maione G, Iannuzzo G, Di Minno MND, Rubba P, Fortunato G. A Real-World Experience of Clinical, Biochemical and Genetic Assessment of Patients with Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9010219. [PMID: 31947532 PMCID: PMC7019873 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9010219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH), the severest form of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), is characterized by very high LDL-cholesterol levels and a high frequency of coronary heart disease. The disease is caused by the presence of either a pathogenic variant at homozygous status or of two pathogenic variants at compound heterozygous status in the LDLR, APOB, PCSK9 genes. We retrospectively analyzed data of 23 HoFH patients (four children and 19 adults) identified during the genetic screening of 724 FH patients. Genetic screening was performed by sequencing FH causative genes and identifying large rearrangements of LDLR. Among the HoFH patients, four out of 23 (17.4%) were true homozygotes, whereas 19 out of 23 (82.6%) were compound heterozygotes for variants in the LDLR gene. Basal LDL-cholesterol was 12.9 ± 2.9 mmol/L. LDL-cholesterol levels decreased to 7.2 ± 1.8 mmol/L when treated with statin/ezetimibe and to 5.1 ± 3.1 mmol/L with anti-PCSK9 antibodies. Homozygous patients showed higher basal LDL-cholesterol and a poorer response to therapy compared with compound heterozygotes. Since 19 unrelated patients were identified in the Campania region (6,000,000 inhabitants) in southern Italy, the regional prevalence of HoFH was estimated to be at least 1:320,000. In conclusion, our results revealed a worse phenotype for homozygotes compared with compound heterozygotes, thereby highlighting the role of genetic screening in differentiating one genetic status from the other.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Donata Di Taranto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (D.P.); (G.M.)
- CEINGE S.C.a r.l. Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.D.D.T.); (G.F.); Tel.: +39-081-7463530 (M.D.D.T.); +39-081-7464200 (G.F.)
| | - Carola Giacobbe
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (D.P.); (G.M.)
- CEINGE S.C.a r.l. Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Alessio Buonaiuto
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.C.); (G.I.); (P.R.)
| | - Ilenia Calcaterra
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.C.); (G.I.); (P.R.)
| | - Daniela Palma
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (D.P.); (G.M.)
- CEINGE S.C.a r.l. Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Maione
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (D.P.); (G.M.)
- CEINGE S.C.a r.l. Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Iannuzzo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.C.); (G.I.); (P.R.)
| | - Matteo Nicola Dario Di Minno
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy;
| | - Paolo Rubba
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.B.); (I.C.); (G.I.); (P.R.)
| | - Giuliana Fortunato
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy; (C.G.); (D.P.); (G.M.)
- CEINGE S.C.a r.l. Biotecnologie Avanzate, 80131 Naples, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.D.D.T.); (G.F.); Tel.: +39-081-7463530 (M.D.D.T.); +39-081-7464200 (G.F.)
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Gelzo M, Di Taranto MD, Sica C, Boscia A, Papagni F, Fortunato G, Corso G, Dello Russo A. Age-related changes of cholestanol and lathosterol plasma concentrations: an explorative study. Lipids Health Dis 2019; 18:235. [PMID: 31888647 PMCID: PMC6937658 DOI: 10.1186/s12944-019-1176-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) and Lathosterolosis represent two treatable inherited disorders of cholesterol metabolism that are characterized by the accumulation of cholestanol and lathosterol, respectively. The age of the patients suspected of having these disorders is highly variable due to the very different phenotypes. The early diagnosis of these disorders is important because specific therapeutic treatment could prevent the disease progression. The biochemical diagnosis of these defects is generally performed analyzing the sterol profile. Since age-related levels of these sterols are lacking, this study aims to determine a preliminary comparison of plasma levels of cholestanol and lathosterol among Italian unaffected newborns, children and healthy adults. METHODS The sterols were extracted from 130 plasma samples (24 newborns, 33 children and 73 adults) by a liquid-liquid separation method and quantified by gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector. RESULTS Cholesterol, cholestanol and lathosterol levels together with the cholestanol/cholesterol and lathosterol/cholesterol ratios are statistically different among the three groups. Cholesterol levels progressively increased from newborns to children and to adults, whereas cholestanol/cholesterol and cholestanol/lathosterol ratios progressively decreased from newborns to children and to adults. Lathosterol levels were higher in adults than in both newborns and children. In the total population a positive correlation was observed between cholesterol levels and both cholestanol (correlation coefficient = 0.290, p = 0.001) and lathosterol levels (correlation coefficient = 0.353, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Although this study can only be considered an explorative experience due to the low number of analyzed samples, we revealed several differences of plasma cholestanol and lathosterol levels and their ratios to cholesterol levels among newborns, children and adults. These evidences indicate the need of age-related reference values of cholestanol and lathosterol concentrations, including also newborns and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Gelzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Donata Di Taranto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Sica
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Boscia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Papagni
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuliana Fortunato
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Corso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale L. Pinto 1, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Antonio Dello Russo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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Gelzo M, Di Taranto MD, Sica C, Boscia A, Papagni F, Fortunato G, Corso G, Dello Russo A. Age-related changes of cholestanol and lathosterol plasma concentrations: an explorative study. Lipids Health Dis 2019. [PMID: 31888647 DOI: 10.1186/s12944‐019‐1176‐3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) and Lathosterolosis represent two treatable inherited disorders of cholesterol metabolism that are characterized by the accumulation of cholestanol and lathosterol, respectively. The age of the patients suspected of having these disorders is highly variable due to the very different phenotypes. The early diagnosis of these disorders is important because specific therapeutic treatment could prevent the disease progression. The biochemical diagnosis of these defects is generally performed analyzing the sterol profile. Since age-related levels of these sterols are lacking, this study aims to determine a preliminary comparison of plasma levels of cholestanol and lathosterol among Italian unaffected newborns, children and healthy adults. METHODS The sterols were extracted from 130 plasma samples (24 newborns, 33 children and 73 adults) by a liquid-liquid separation method and quantified by gas chromatography coupled with a flame ionization detector. RESULTS Cholesterol, cholestanol and lathosterol levels together with the cholestanol/cholesterol and lathosterol/cholesterol ratios are statistically different among the three groups. Cholesterol levels progressively increased from newborns to children and to adults, whereas cholestanol/cholesterol and cholestanol/lathosterol ratios progressively decreased from newborns to children and to adults. Lathosterol levels were higher in adults than in both newborns and children. In the total population a positive correlation was observed between cholesterol levels and both cholestanol (correlation coefficient = 0.290, p = 0.001) and lathosterol levels (correlation coefficient = 0.353, p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Although this study can only be considered an explorative experience due to the low number of analyzed samples, we revealed several differences of plasma cholestanol and lathosterol levels and their ratios to cholesterol levels among newborns, children and adults. These evidences indicate the need of age-related reference values of cholestanol and lathosterol concentrations, including also newborns and children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Gelzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Donata Di Taranto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Sica
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Antonio Boscia
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Papagni
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuliana Fortunato
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Biotecnologie Avanzate s.c. a r.l., Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Corso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale L. Pinto 1, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Antonio Dello Russo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
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Analysis of HDL-microRNA panel in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia subjects with LDL receptor null or defective mutation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20354. [PMID: 31889114 PMCID: PMC6937253 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56857-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last years increasing attention has been given to the connection between genotype/phenotype and cardiovascular events in subjects with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). MicroRNAs (miRs) bound to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) may contribute to better discriminate the cardiovascular risk of FH subjects. Our aim was to evaluate the HDL-miR panel in heterozygous FH (HeFH) patients with an LDLR null or defective mutation and its association with pulse wave velocity (PWV). We evaluated lipid panel, HDL-miR panel and PWV in 32 LDLR null mutation (LDLR-null group) and 35 LDLR defective variant (LDLR-defective group) HeFH patients. HDL-miR-486 and HDL-miR-92a levels were more expressed in the LDLR-null group than the LDLR-defective group. When we further stratified the study population into three groups according to both the LDLR genotype and history of ASCVD (LDLR-null/not-ASCVD, LDLR-defective/not-ASCVD and LDLR/ASCVD groups), both the LDLR/ASCVD and the LDLR-null/not-ASCVD groups had a higher expression of HDL-miR-486 and HDL-miR-92a than the LDLR-defective/not-ASCVD group. Finally, HDL-miR-486 and HDL-miR-92a were independently associated with PWV. In conclusion, the LDLR-null group exhibited HDL-miR-486 and HDL-miR-92a levels more expressed than the LDLR-defective group. Further studies are needed to evaluate these HDL-miRs as predictive biomarkers of cardiovascular events in FH.
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Page MM, Bell DA, Watts GF. Widening the spectrum of genetic testing in familial hypercholesterolaemia: Will it translate into better patient and population outcomes? Clin Genet 2019; 97:543-555. [PMID: 31833051 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is caused by pathogenic variants in LDLR, APOB or PCSK9. Impaired low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor function leads to decreased LDL catabolism and premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Thousands of LDLR variants are known, but assignation of pathogenicity requires accurate phenotyping, family studies and assessment of LDL receptor function. Precise, genetic diagnosis of FH using targeted next generation sequencing allows for optimal treatment, distinguishing FH from pathogenically distinct disorders requiring different treatment. Polygenic hypercholesterolaemia resulting from an accumulation of LDL cholesterol-raising single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) could also be suspected by this approach. Similarly, ASCVD risk could be estimated by broader sequencing of cholesterol and non-cholesterol-related genes. Both of these areas require further research. The clinical management of FH, focusing on the primary or secondary prevention of ASCVD, has been boosted by PCSK9 inhibitor therapy. The efficacy of PCSK9 inhibitors in homozygous FH may be partly predicted by the LDLR variants. While expanded genetic testing in FH is clinically useful in providing an accurate diagnosis and enabling cost-effective testing of relatives, further research is needed to establish its value in improving clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Page
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Western Diagnostic Pathology, Perth, Australia
| | - Damon A Bell
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, PathWest Fiona Stanley Hospital and Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia.,Lipid Disorders Clinic, Department of Cardiology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Clinipath Pathology, Perth, Australia
| | - Gerald F Watts
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.,Lipid Disorders Clinic, Department of Cardiology, Royal Perth Hospital, Perth, Australia
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Gelzo M, Di Taranto MD, Bisecco A, D'Amico A, Capuano R, Giacobbe C, Caputo M, Cirillo M, Tedeschi G, Fortunato G, Corso G. A case of Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis with spinal cord involvement and without tendon xanthomas: identification of a new mutation of the CYP27A1 gene. Acta Neurol Belg 2019. [PMID: 31875301 DOI: 10.1007/s13760‐019‐01267‐4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis (CTX) is an autosomal recessive defect of the alternative pathway of bile acid biosynthesis, due to the deficiency of mitochondrial cytochrome P450 sterol 27-hydroxylase enzyme encoded by CYP27A1. The deficit of sterol 27-hydroxylase raises cholestanol in plasma and tissues of affected patients. Although there is a marked variability of signs, symptoms, severity and age of onset, the main clinical manifestations of CTX include chronic diarrhea, bilateral cataract, tendon xanthomas and neurological dysfunction. Herein, we report the clinical, biochemical and molecular characterization of a Caucasian female affected by CTX diagnosed at 28 years. The patient's clinical history revealed neurological and behavioral manifestations already at fifth year of life, following by bilateral cataract and chronic diarrhea without xanthomas. At diagnosis, an involvement of the cervical spinal cord was also observed on MRI. Sterols profile analysis in plasma and red blood cell membranes showed very high cholestanol levels. CYP27A1 sequencing revealed a new variant (e.g., c.850_854delinsCTC) at homozygous status. The follow-up after 5 months of chenodeoxycholic acid treatment showed a decrease of plasma cholestanol of 64%. After 1 year, the patient showed normalization of bowel function, reduction of risk of falls, improvement of cognitive function although brain and spine MRI and other instrumental examinations remained unchanged. This case highlights the variability of the CTX phenotype that makes it difficult to reach an early diagnosis. Biochemical and/or molecular screening of CTX should be taken into account to early start the pharmacological treatment limiting neurological damages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Gelzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Donata Di Taranto
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Alvino Bisecco
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra D'Amico
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, Neuroradiology Units, Federico II University, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Rocco Capuano
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Carola Giacobbe
- CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Mafalda Caputo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario Cirillo
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Gioacchino Tedeschi
- Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Piazza L. Miraglia 2, 80138, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuliana Fortunato
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, Federico II University, Naples, Italy, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.,CEINGE Advanced Biotechnologies, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145, Naples, Italy
| | - Gaetano Corso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Viale L. Pinto 1, 71122, Foggia, Italy.
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Overview of the current status of familial hypercholesterolaemia care in over 60 countries - The EAS Familial Hypercholesterolaemia Studies Collaboration (FHSC). Atherosclerosis 2019; 277:234-255. [PMID: 30270054 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2018.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2018] [Revised: 08/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/31/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Management of familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) may vary across different settings due to factors related to population characteristics, practice, resources and/or policies. We conducted a survey among the worldwide network of EAS FHSC Lead Investigators to provide an overview of FH status in different countries. METHODS Lead Investigators from countries formally involved in the EAS FHSC by mid-May 2018 were invited to provide a brief report on FH status in their countries, including available information, programmes, initiatives, and management. RESULTS 63 countries provided reports. Data on FH prevalence are lacking in most countries. Where available, data tend to align with recent estimates, suggesting a higher frequency than that traditionally considered. Low rates of FH detection are reported across all regions. National registries and education programmes to improve FH awareness/knowledge are a recognised priority, but funding is often lacking. In most countries, diagnosis primarily relies on the Dutch Lipid Clinics Network criteria. Although available in many countries, genetic testing is not widely implemented (frequent cost issues). There are only a few national official government programmes for FH. Under-treatment is an issue. FH therapy is not universally reimbursed. PCSK9-inhibitors are available in ∼2/3 countries. Lipoprotein-apheresis is offered in ∼60% countries, although access is limited. CONCLUSIONS FH is a recognised public health concern. Management varies widely across countries, with overall suboptimal identification and under-treatment. Efforts and initiatives to improve FH knowledge and management are underway, including development of national registries, but support, particularly from health authorities, and better funding are greatly needed.
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