Alternative Biomarkers for Combined Biology

The role of metabolic diseases in cardiotoxicity associated with cancer therapy: What we know, what we would know

Metabolic diseases, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, are known risk factors for cardiovascular (CV) diseases. Thus, patients with those comorbidities could be at increased risk of experiencing cardiotoxicity related to treatment with Anthracyclines and the other new generation targeted anticancer drugs. However, investigations addressing the mechanisms underlying the development of CV complications and poor outcome in such cohort of patients are still few and controversial. Given the importance of a personalized approach against chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy, this review summarizes our current knowledge on the pathophysiology of chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy and its association with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Along with clinical evidences, future perspectives of preclinical research around this field and its role in addressing important open questions, including the development of more proactive strategies for prevention, and treatment of cardiotoxicity during and after chemotherapy in the presence of metabolic diseases, is also presented.

Protecting the heart in cancer therapy

Recent advances in cancer prevention and management have led to an exponential increase of cancer survivors worldwide. Regrettably, cardiovascular disease has risen in the aftermath as one of the most devastating consequences of cancer therapies. In this work, we define cancer therapeutics-induced cardiotoxicity as the direct or indirect cardiovascular injury or injurious effect caused by cancer therapies. We describe four progressive stages of this condition and four corresponding levels of prevention, each having a specific goal, focus, and means of action. We subsequently unfold this didactic framework, surveying mechanisms of cardiotoxicity, risk factors, cardioprotectants, biomarkers, and diagnostic imaging modalities. Finally, we outline the most current evidence-based recommendations in this area according to multidisciplinary expert consensus guidelines.