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Asbeutah AA, Daher R, Malik A, Hariri E, Alfaddagh A, Elajami TK, Welty FK. The Effect of Eicosapentaenoic and Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation on Coronary Artery Calcium Progression in Subjects With Diabetes and Coronary Artery Disease: A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Trial. Am J Cardiol 2024; 225:98-104. [PMID: 38885922 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2024.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Higher coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores and progression of CAC are associated with higher mortality. We previously reported that subjects with coronary artery disease randomly allocated to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) supplementation or none had similar significant increases in CAC score over 30 months. Whether these findings are influenced by diabetes status is unknown. A total of 242 subjects with coronary artery disease who were on statin therapy were randomly allocated to to 1.86 g EPA and 1.5 g DHA daily or none (control). The CAC score was measured at baseline and 30-month follow-up using noncontrast, cardiac computed tomography. A significant interaction term between diabetes status and treatment arm was noted in the prediction of the CAC score (p <0.001). A total of 176 subjects (85.8% men) had no diabetes and 66 subjects (80.3% men) had diabetes. The mean age was 62.9 ± 7.9 versus 63.2 ± 7.1 years, respectively. The mean low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and median triglyceride levels were not significantly different between those without and with diabetes: 77.7 ± 25.9 versus 77.1 ± 30.2 mg/100 ml, respectively, and 117.0 (78.0 to 158.0) versus 119.0 (84.5 to 201.5) mg/100 ml, respectively. Subjects with diabetes on EPA+DHA had a greater increase in CAC score than subjects with diabetes in the control group (median 380.7 vs 183.5, respectively, p = 0.021). In contrast, no difference occurred between the EPA+DHA and control groups in subjects without diabetes (175.7 vs 201.1, respectively, p = 0.41). In conclusion, EPA+DHA supplementation was associated with greater CAC progression in subjects with diabetes than subjects with diabetes in the control group over a 30-month period; whether this indicates progression of the disease burden or plaque stabilization requires further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Aziz Asbeutah
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Ralph Daher
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cooper University Healthcare, Camden, New Jersey
| | - Abdulaziz Malik
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Essa Hariri
- Division of Cardiology, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Abdulhamied Alfaddagh
- Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Tarec K Elajami
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Francine K Welty
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts.
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Nicholls SJ. Serial PET imaging to evaluate medical therapies: Is it ready for prime time? Atherosclerosis 2024; 395:117517. [PMID: 38582638 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2024.117517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2024] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Nicholls
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, 631 Blackburn Road, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.
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Yang H, Xu G, Li Q, Zhu L. Ligustrazine alleviates the progression of coronary artery calcification by inhibiting caspase-3/GSDME mediated pyroptosis. Biosci Trends 2024:2024.01096. [PMID: 38972749 DOI: 10.5582/bst.2024.01096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is an early marker for atherosclerosis and is mainly induced by the osteoblast-like phenotype conversion of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Recent reports indicate that NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3)-mediated pyroptosis plays a significant role in the calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), making it a promising target for treating calcific aortic valve disease (CAC). Ligustrazine, or tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), has been found effective in various cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and is suggested to inhibit NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis. However, the function of TMP in CAC is unknown. Herein, influences of TMP on β-glycerophosphate (β-GP)-stimulated VSMCs and OPG-/- mice were explored. Mouse Aortic Vascular Smooth Muscle (MOVAS-1) cells were stimulated by β-GP with si- caspase-3, si- Gasdermin E (GSDME) or TMP. Increased calcification, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, Interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) and Interleukin-18 (IL-18) levels, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, enhanced apoptosis, and activated cysteine-aspartic acid protease-3 (caspase-3)/GSDME signaling were observed in β-GP-stimulated MOVAS-1 cells, which was sharply alleviated by si-caspase-3, si-GSDME or TMP. Furthermore, the impact of TMP on the β-GP-induced calcification and injury in MOVAS-1 cells was abolished by raptinal, an activator of caspase-3. Subsequently, OPG-/- mice were dosed with TMP or TMP combined with raptinal. Calcium deposition, increased nodules, elevated IL-1β and IL-18 levels, upregulated CASP3 and actin alpha 2, smooth muscle (ACTA2), and activated caspase-3/GSDME signaling in OPG-/- mice were markedly alleviated by TMP, which were notably reversed by the co-administration of raptinal. Collectively, TMP mitigated CAC by inhibiting caspase-3/GSDME mediated pyroptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honghui Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou University, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guian Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou University, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingman Li
- Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou University, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Lijie Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhengzhou University, Central China Fuwai Hospital, Zhengzhou, China
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Bruoha S, Galli M, Sabouret P, Yosefy C, Taha L, Gragnano F, Savage MP, Shuvy M, Biondi-Zoccai G, Glikson M, Asher E. Atherosclerotic Plaque Erosion: Mechanisms, Clinical Implications, and Potential Therapeutic Strategies-A Review. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol 2024; 83:547-556. [PMID: 38421206 DOI: 10.1097/fjc.0000000000001554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Atherosclerosis is an insidious and progressive inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of lipid-laden plaques within the intima of arterial walls with potentially devastating consequences. While rupture of vulnerable plaques has been extensively studied, a distinct mechanism known as plaque erosion (PE) has gained recognition and attention in recent years. PE, characterized by the loss of endothelial cell lining in the presence of intact fibrous cap, contributes to a significant and growing proportion of acute coronary events. However, despite a heterogeneous substrate underlying coronary thrombosis, treatment remains identical. This article provides an overview of atherosclerotic PE characteristics and its underlying mechanisms, highlights its clinical implications, and discusses potential therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Bruoha
- Department of Cardiology, Barzilai Medical Center, the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel
| | - Mattia Galli
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Cotignola, Italy
| | - Pierre Sabouret
- Maria Cecilia Hospital, GVM Care & Research, Cotignola, Italy
- National College of French Cardiologists, 13 rue Niepce, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Chaim Yosefy
- Department of Cardiology, Barzilai Medical Center, the Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel
| | - Louay Taha
- Jesselson Integrated Heart Center, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Felice Gragnano
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
- Division of Clinical Cardiology, A.O.R.N. "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
| | - Michael P Savage
- Division of Cardiology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mony Shuvy
- Jesselson Integrated Heart Center, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Giuseppe Biondi-Zoccai
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy ; and
- Mediterranea Cardiocentro, Naples, Italy
| | - Michael Glikson
- Jesselson Integrated Heart Center, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Elad Asher
- Jesselson Integrated Heart Center, Shaare Zedek Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
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Ji B, Liu XB. Coronary artery calcification: concepts and clinical applications. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2848-2855. [PMID: 38694287 PMCID: PMC11060298 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000002016] [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: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification is an important hallmark of atherosclerosis. Coronary artery calcification (CAC) implies the presence of coronary artery disease (CAD), irrespective of risk factors or symptoms, is concomitant with the development of advanced atherosclerosis. Coronary thrombosis is the most common clinical end event leading to acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The least common type of pathology associated with thrombosis is the calcified nodule (CN). It usually occurs in elderly patients with severely calcified and tortuous arteries. The prevalence of calcified nodules in patients with ACS may be underestimated due to the lack of easily recognisable diagnostic methods. In this review, the authors will focus on the classification, clinical significance, pathogenesis, and diagnostic evaluation and treatment of CAC to further explore the clinical significance of CN.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xue-Bo Liu
- Department of Cardiology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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Howden N, Branch K, Douglas P, Gray M, Budoff M, Dewey M, Newby DE, Nicholls SJ, Blankstein R, Fathieh S, Grieve SM, Figtree GA. Computed tomographic angiography measures of coronary plaque in clinical trials: opportunities and considerations to accelerate drug translation. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1359500. [PMID: 38500753 PMCID: PMC10945423 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1359500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD) is the causal pathological process driving most major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) worldwide. The complex development of atherosclerosis manifests as intimal plaque which occurs in the presence or absence of traditional risk factors. There are numerous effective medications for modifying CAD but new pharmacologic therapies require increasingly large and expensive cardiovascular outcome trials to assess their potential impact on MACE and to obtain regulatory approval. For many disease areas, nearly a half of drugs are approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration based on beneficial effects on surrogate endpoints. For cardiovascular disease, only low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and blood pressure are approved as surrogates for cardiovascular disease. Valid surrogates of CAD are urgently needed to facilitate robust evaluation of novel, beneficial treatments and inspire investment. Fortunately, advances in non-invasive imaging offer new opportunity for accelerating CAD drug development. Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is the most advanced candidate, with the ability to measure accurately and reproducibly characterize the underlying causal disease itself. Indeed, favourable changes in plaque burden have been shown to be associated with improved outcomes, and CCTA may have a unique role as an effective surrogate endpoint for therapies that are designed to improve CAD outcomes. CCTA also has the potential to de-risk clinical endpoint-based trials both financially and by enrichment of participants at higher likelihood of MACE. Furthermore, total non-calcified, and high-risk plaque volume, and their change over time, provide a causally linked measure of coronary artery disease which is inextricably linked to MACE, and represents a robust surrogate imaging biomarker with potential to be endorsed by regulatory authorities. Global consensus on specific imaging endpoints and protocols for optimal clinical trial design is essential as we work towards a rigorous, sustainable and staged pathway for new CAD therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- N. Howden
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
- Department of Cardiology, Gosford Hospital, Gosford, NSW, Australia
| | - K. Branch
- Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - P. Douglas
- Duke Department of Medicine, The Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - M. Gray
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - M. Budoff
- Department of Cardiology, Lundquist Institute, Torrance, CA, United States
| | - M. Dewey
- Department of Radiology, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Campus Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, Berlin, Germany
| | - D. E. Newby
- Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - S. J. Nicholls
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - R. Blankstein
- Departments of Medicine (Cardiovascular Division), Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - S. Fathieh
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - S. M. Grieve
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - G. A. Figtree
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
- Kolling Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Kang JH, Kawano T, Murata M, Toita R. Vascular calcification and cellular signaling pathways as potential therapeutic targets. Life Sci 2024; 336:122309. [PMID: 38042282 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.122309] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Increased vascular calcification (VC) is observed in patients with cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. VC is divided into three types according to its location: intimal, medial, and valvular. Various cellular signaling pathways are associated with VC, including the Wnt, mitogen-activated protein kinase, phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase/Akt, cyclic nucleotide-dependent protein kinase, protein kinase C, calcium/calmodulin-dependent kinase II, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin, Ras homologous GTPase, apoptosis, Notch, and cytokine signaling pathways. In this review, we discuss the literature concerning the key cellular signaling pathways associated with VC and their role as potential therapeutic targets. Inhibitors to these pathways represent good candidates for use as potential therapeutic agents for the prevention and treatment of VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeong-Hun Kang
- National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Research Institute, 6-1 Shinmachi, Kishibe, Suita, Osaka 564-8565, Japan.
| | - Takahito Kawano
- Center for Advanced Medical Innovation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Masaharu Murata
- Center for Advanced Medical Innovation, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan
| | - Riki Toita
- Biomedical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 1-8-31 Midorigaoka, Ikeda, Osaka, 563-8577, Japan; AIST-Osaka University Advanced Photonics and Biosensing Open Innovation Laboratory, AIST, 2-1 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
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8
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Raggi P, Takyar FM, Gadiyaram V, Zhang C, Stillman AE, Davarpanah AH. Differential effect of atorvastatin and pravastatin on thoracic spine attenuation: A sub-analysis of a randomized clinical trial. Atherosclerosis 2024; 388:117425. [PMID: 38109819 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.117425] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Statins reduce cardiovascular events and may improve bone mineral density. METHODS We conducted a sub-analysis of a randomized clinical trial that investigated the differential effect of moderate vs intensive low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering therapies on coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores, and used the acquired images to assess the change in radiological attenuation of selected thoracic vertebrae. Baseline and 12-month unenhanced chest CT scans were performed in 420 hyperlipidemic, postmenopausal women randomized to atorvastatin (ATV) 80 mg/day or pravastatin (PRV) 40 mg/day in the Beyond Endorsed Lipid Lowering with Electron Beam Tomography Scanning (BELLES) trial. Bone attenuation was measured in three contiguous thoracic vertebrae at baseline and 12 months. RESULTS There were no differences in baseline demographic and clinical characteristics between treatment arms. The median percent lowering (interquartile range) in LDL-C was significantly greater with ATV than PRV [-53 (-69 to 20)% vs -28 (-55 to 74)%, p < 0.001], although the CAC score change was similar [12 (-63 to 208)% vs 13 (-75 to 358)%; p = 0.44]. At follow-up, the median bone attenuation loss was significantly greater with PRV than with ATV [-2.6 (-27 to 11)% vs 0 (-11 to 25)%; p < 0.001]. The attenuation loss in the PRV group was comparable to that of a historical untreated general population sample. In the entire cohort, the changes in LDL-C and total cholesterol were inversely correlated with bone attenuation change (p < 0.01). In adjusted multivariable linear regression analyses, race and percent change in LDL-C were independent predictors of bone attenuation change. Age, body mass index, history of smoking, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, or hormone replacement therapy did not affect percent change in BMD. CONCLUSIONS These findings support the hypothesis that there is an interaction between bone and cardiometabolic health and that intensive lipid lowering has a beneficial effect on bone health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Raggi
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Farzin M Takyar
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Varuna Gadiyaram
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Chao Zhang
- Pediatric Biostatistics Core, Department of Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, USA
| | - Arthur E Stillman
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Amir H Davarpanah
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Ivachevska VV, Supyk RR, Ivachevskyi MM, Hechko MM, Varvarynets AV. Coronary artery calcium score as independent risk factor of obstructive coronary artery disease. WIADOMOSCI LEKARSKIE (WARSAW, POLAND : 1960) 2024; 77:424-428. [PMID: 38691782 DOI: 10.36740/wlek202403108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Aim: To prove an independence of CAC score comparatively to conventional risk factors such as age, and dyslipidemia especially in patients under forty years of age. PATIENTS AND METHODS Materials and Methods: Thirty-four asymptomatic adult patients with no prior established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus or severe comorbidities, except of complex clinical examination, underwent CT scan with evaluation of coronary artery calcium score. RESULTS Results: The average total cholesterol level in the group was (5.62±1.02) mmol/l, indicating the presence of dyslipidemia. The average HDL level was (1.26±0.24) mmol/l, suggesting an average risk of atherosclerosis. The average LDL levels were within the borderline range at (3.63±1.01) mmol/l. The average triglyceride level was within the safe range at (1.93±1.08) mmol/l. The atherogenicity coefficient indicated a moderate risk of atherosclerosis with an average value of 3.64±1.31. The average coronary artery calcium score was 56.71±143.85, indicating minor plaques and a moderate risk of coronary artery disease. Correlation analysis revealed no significant correlation between age and the CAC score (r=0.1, p>0.05). However, reliable direct correlation of weak strength was found between the CAC score and LDL level (r=0.35, p<0.05). Direct correlations of weak strength were also observed between age and the levels of total cholesterol, LDL and the atherogenicity coefficient (r=0.43, 0.49, 0.42 respectively, p<0.05). CONCLUSION Conclusions: Coronary artery calcium score is a valuable screening tool for identifying potential obstructive coronary artery disease, not only for individuals aged forty and above, but also for younger asymptomatic patients.
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Hashmi S, Shah PW, Aherrahrou Z, Aikawa E, Aherrahrou R. Beyond the Basics: Unraveling the Complexity of Coronary Artery Calcification. Cells 2023; 12:2822. [PMID: 38132141 PMCID: PMC10742130 DOI: 10.3390/cells12242822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is mainly associated with coronary atherosclerosis, which is an indicator of coronary artery disease (CAD). CAC refers to the accumulation of calcium phosphate deposits, classified as micro- or macrocalcifications, that lead to the hardening and narrowing of the coronary arteries. CAC is a strong predictor of future cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction and sudden death. Our narrative review focuses on the pathophysiology of CAC, exploring its link to plaque vulnerability, genetic factors, and how race and sex can affect the condition. We also examined the connection between the gut microbiome and CAC, and the impact of genetic variants on the cellular processes involved in vascular calcification and atherogenesis. We aimed to thoroughly analyze the existing literature to improve our understanding of CAC and its potential clinical and therapeutic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satwat Hashmi
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan;
| | - Pashmina Wiqar Shah
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, Universität zu Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany; (P.W.S.); (Z.A.)
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, University Heart Centre Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Zouhair Aherrahrou
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, Universität zu Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany; (P.W.S.); (Z.A.)
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, University Heart Centre Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Elena Aikawa
- Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Rédouane Aherrahrou
- Institute for Cardiogenetics, Universität zu Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany; (P.W.S.); (Z.A.)
- DZHK (German Centre for Cardiovascular Research), Partner Site Hamburg/Kiel/Lübeck, University Heart Centre Lübeck, 23562 Lübeck, Germany
- A.I. Virtanen Institute for Molecular Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, FI-70211 Kuopio, Finland
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11
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Hariri E, Asbeutah AA, Malik A, Amangurbanova M, Chedid G, Daher R, Al Hammoud M, Welty FK. Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid supplementation and coronary artery calcium progression in patients with coronary artery disease: A secondary analysis of a randomized trial. Atherosclerosis 2023; 387:117388. [PMID: 38056242 PMCID: PMC11195009 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2023.117388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We previously reported that an omega-3 fatty acid index ≥4% with high-dose eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) prevented progression of noncalcified plaque. Higher coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores and progression of CAC are associated with increased cardiovascular events and mortality. We examined the effect of EPA + DHA on CAC score. METHODS A total of 242 patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) on statin therapy were randomized to 1.86 g EPA and 1.5 g DHA daily or none (control) for 30 months. The CAC score was measured at baseline and 30-months with non-contrast, cardiac computed tomography. RESULTS Both EPA + DHA and control groups had significant progression in CAC scores over 30 months (median change:183.5 vs 221.0, respectively, p < 0.001) despite a 13.6% reduction in triglyceride level with EPA + DHA. No significant difference was observed between groups for the total group, by baseline CAC scores of <100, 100-399, 400-999 and ≥1000 or quartiles of achieved levels of EPA, DHA and the omega-3 fatty acid index. Similar rates of CAC progression were noted in those on high-intensity statin compared to low- and moderate-intensity statin. CONCLUSIONS EPA and DHA added to statin resulted in similar CAC progression over 30 months regardless of baseline CAC categories, statin intensity and achieved levels of EPA, DHA and the omega-3 fatty acid index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Essa Hariri
- Johns Hopkins Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Abdul Aziz Asbeutah
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Abdulaziz Malik
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Maral Amangurbanova
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Georges Chedid
- The Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Ralph Daher
- Department of Internal Medicine, Cooper University Healthcare, Camden, NJ, USA
| | - Mazen Al Hammoud
- The Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Francine K Welty
- Division of Cardiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
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12
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Xinyu Z, Dongxia M, Yue H, Xiao J, Wang L, Xiaoping J. Statins Accelerate Coronary Calcification and Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Events. Cardiol Rev 2023; 31:293-298. [PMID: 37796966 DOI: 10.1097/crd.0000000000000438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Lipid-lowering therapy with statins is well recognized as an effective therapy in reducing adverse cardiovascular events. However, the relationship between statin therapy and progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC) is unclear. A few of studies suggested that statins fail to slow and even accelerate progression of CAC; meanwhile, some researchers demonstrate opposite results. With the purpose of seeking out the effect of statin therapy on CAC, we summarized the existing evidence on statins and undertook meta-analyses of clinical trials assessing the effect of statin therapy on CAC. Fourteen trials were identified suitable for inclusion in the analysis of the effect of statin treatment on CAC, of which 11 were randomized controlled trails, 1 was case-control study, 1 was cross-sectional study, and 1 was observational study. In the meta-analysis of CAC progression, statin therapy seemed to accelerate the progression of CAC. Meanwhile, the analysis revealed a significant correlation between statin treatment and lower risk of cardiovascular events. In conclusion, meta-analyses of the available trials have shown a significant reduction of risk of cardiovascular events. In contrast, statins accelerated CAC. This suggests that statin-mediated atheroma calcification may enhance plaque stability and reduce the risk of plaque rupture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhang Xinyu
- From the The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, The State and Shandong Province Joint Key Laboratory of Translational Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Cardiology, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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13
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Hasific S, Oevrehus KA, Lindholt JS, Mejldal A, Dey D, Dahl JS, Frandsen NE, Auscher S, Lambrechtsen J, Hosbond S, Alan D, Urbonaviciene G, Becker S, Rasmussen LM, Diederichsen AP. Effects of Vitamin K2 and D Supplementation on Coronary Artery Disease in Men: A RCT. JACC. ADVANCES 2023; 2:100643. [PMID: 38938724 PMCID: PMC11198368 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2023.100643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Background Extent and progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC) are strong predictors of myocardial infarction and mortality. Objectives This study aims to investigate if vitamin K2 and D supplementation can reduce CAC progression. Methods A total of 389 participants were randomized to supplementation with vitamin K2 (720 μg/day) and D (25 μg/day) vs placebo in a multicenter double-blinded randomized controlled trial. The primary endpoint (progression of aortic valve calcification) has been reported. This study reports CAC progression in participants with no ischemic heart disease. CT scans were performed at baseline, 12, and 24 months. ΔCAC and coronary plaque volume were evaluated in the entire group and in 2 subgroups. A safety endpoint was the composite of myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization, and all-cause mortality. Results In total, 304 participants (male, mean age 71 years) were identified. The intervention and placebo group both increased in mean CAC scores from baseline to 24-month follow-up (Δ203 vs Δ254 AU, P = 0.089). In patients with CAC scores ≥400 AU, CAC progression was lower by intervention (Δ288 vs Δ380 AU, P = 0.047). Plaque analyses showed no significant difference in progression of noncalcified plaque volume (Δ-6 vs Δ46 mm3, P = 0.172). Safety events were fewer in participants receiving supplementation (1.9% vs 6.7%, P = 0.048). Conclusions Patients with no prior ischemic heart disease randomized to vitamin K2 and D supplementation had no significant reduction in mean CAC progression over a 2-year follow-up compared to placebo. Although the primary endpoint is neutral, differential responses to supplementation in those with CAC scores ≥400 AU and in safety endpoints are hypothesis-generating for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma Hasific
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Jes S. Lindholt
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Anna Mejldal
- Department of Clinical Research, OPEN, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Damini Dey
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Los Angeles, USA
| | - Jordi S. Dahl
- Department of Cardiology, University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Søren Auscher
- Department of Cardiology, OUH Svendborg Hospital, Svendborg, Denmark
| | - Jess Lambrechtsen
- Department of Cardiology, OUH Svendborg Hospital, Svendborg, Denmark
| | - Susanne Hosbond
- Department of Cardiology, Lillebaelt Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
| | - Dilek Alan
- Department of Cardiology, Lillebaelt Hospital, Vejle, Denmark
| | | | - Søren Becker
- Department of Cardiology, Regional Hospital Central Jutland, Silkeborg, Denmark
| | - Lars M. Rasmussen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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14
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Ngamdu KS, Ghosalkar DS, Chung HE, Christensen JL, Lee C, Butler CA, Ho T, Chu A, Heath JR, Baig M, Wu WC, Choudhary G, Morrison AR. Long-term statin therapy is associated with severe coronary artery calcification. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289111. [PMID: 37498869 PMCID: PMC10374064 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis and consequent risk of cardiovascular events or mortality can be accurately assessed by quantifying coronary artery calcium score (CACS) derived from computed tomography. HMG-CoA-reductase inhibitors (statins) are the primary pharmacotherapy used to reduce cardiovascular events, yet there is growing data that support statin use may increase coronary calcification. We set out to determine the likelihood of severe CACS in the context of chronic statin therapy. METHODS We established a retrospective, case-control study of 1,181 U.S. veterans without coronary artery disease (CAD) from a single site, the Providence VA Medical Center. Duration of statin therapy for primary prevention was divided into 5-year categorical increments. The primary outcome was CACS derived from low-dose lung cancer screening computed tomography (LCSCT), stratified by CACs severity (none = 0; mild = 1-99; moderate = 100-399; and severe ≥400 AU). Statin duration of zero served as the referent control. Ordinal logistic regression analysis determined the association between duration of statin use and CACS categories. Proportional odds assumption was tested using likelihood ratio test. Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk score, body mass index, and CKD (glomerular filtration rate of <60 ml/min/1.73 m2) were included in the adjustment models. RESULTS The mean age of the study population was 64.7±7.2 years, and 706 (60%) patients were prescribed a statin at baseline. Duration of statin therapy was associated with greater odds of having increased CACS (>0-5 years, OR: 1.71 [CI: 1.34-2.18], p<0.001; >5-10 years, OR: 2.80 [CI: 2.01-3.90], p<0.001; >10 years, OR: 5.30 [CI: 3.23-8.70], p<0.001), and the relationship between statin duration and CACS remained significant after multivariate adjustment (>0-5 years, OR: 1.49 [CI: 1.16-1.92], p = 0.002; >5-10 years, OR: 2.38 [CI: 1.7-3.35], p<0.001; >10 years, OR: 4.48 [CI: 2.7-7.43], p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS Long-term use of statins is associated with increased likelihood of severe CACS in patients with significant smoking history. The use of CACS to interpret cardiovascular event risk may require adjustment in the context of chronic statin therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyari Sumayin Ngamdu
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Dhairyasheel S. Ghosalkar
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Hojune E. Chung
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Jared L. Christensen
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Cadence Lee
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Celia A. Butler
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Tiffany Ho
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Alice Chu
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Jacob R. Heath
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Muhammad Baig
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Wen-Chih Wu
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Gaurav Choudhary
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Alan R. Morrison
- Departments of Research and Medicine, Vascular Research Laboratory, Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Research, Ocean State Research Institute, Inc., Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
- Department of Medicine, Section of Cardiology, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
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15
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Kozakova M, Morizzo C, Jamagidze G, Della Latta D, Chiappino S, Chiappino D, Palombo C. Association between Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Vascular Biomarkers in Primary Prevention. Biomedicines 2023; 11:1753. [PMID: 37371848 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11061753] [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: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Several noninvasive vascular biomarkers have been proposed to improve risk stratification for atherothrombotic events. To identify biomarkers suitable for detecting intermediate-risk individuals who might benefit from lipid-lowering treatment in primary prevention, the present study tested the association of plasma LDL-cholesterol with coronary artery calcification (CAC) Agatston score, high carotid and femoral intima-media thickness (IMT), low carotid distensibility and high carotid-femoral pulse-wave velocity in 260 asymptomatic individuals at intermediate cardiovascular risk and without diabetes and lipid-lowering treatment. High or low vascular biomarkers were considered when their value was above the 95th or below the 5th percentile, respectively, of the distribution in the healthy or in the study population. LDL-cholesterol was independently associated with the CAC score = 0 (OR 0.67; 95%CI 0.48-0.92, p = 0.01), CAC score > 100 (1.59; 1.08-2.39, p = 0.01) and high common femoral artery (CFA) IMT (1.89; 1.19-3.06, p < 0.01), but not with other biomarkers. Our data confirm that in individuals at intermediate risk, lipid-lowering treatment can be avoided in the presence of a CAC score = 0, while it should be used with a CAC score > 100. CFA IMT could represent a useful biomarker for decisions regarding lipid-lowering treatment. However, sex- and age-specific reference values should be established in a large healthy population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Kozakova
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
- Esaote SpA, 16152 Genova, Italy
| | - Carmela Morizzo
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Giuli Jamagidze
- Imaging Department, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy
| | - Daniele Della Latta
- Imaging Department, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy
- Bioengineering and Deep Health Units, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy
| | - Sara Chiappino
- Imaging Department, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy
| | - Dante Chiappino
- Imaging Department, Fondazione Toscana G. Monasterio, 54100 Massa, Italy
| | - Carlo Palombo
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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Pugliese L, Ricci F, Sica G, Scaglione M, Masala S. Non-Contrast and Contrast-Enhanced Cardiac Computed Tomography Imaging in the Diagnostic and Prognostic Evaluation of Coronary Artery Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:2074. [PMID: 37370969 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13122074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, cardiac computed tomography (CT) has emerged as a powerful non-invasive tool for risk stratification, as well as the detection and characterization of coronary artery disease (CAD), which remains the main cause of morbidity and mortality in the world. Advances in technology have favored the increasing use of cardiac CT by allowing better performance with lower radiation doses. Coronary artery calcium, as assessed by non-contrast CT, is considered to be the best marker of subclinical atherosclerosis, and its use is recommended for the refinement of risk assessment in low-to-intermediate risk individuals. In addition, coronary CT angiography (CCTA) has become a gate-keeper to invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and revascularization in patients with acute chest pain by allowing the assessment not only of the extent of lumen stenosis, but also of its hemodynamic significance if combined with the measurement of fractional flow reserve or perfusion imaging. Moreover, CCTA provides a unique incremental value over functional testing and ICA by imaging the vessel wall, thus allowing the assessment of plaque burden, composition, and instability features, in addition to perivascular adipose tissue attenuation, which is a marker of vascular inflammation. There exists the potential to identify the non-obstructive lesions at high risk of progression to plaque rupture by combining all of these measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Pugliese
- Radiology Unit, Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Translational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant'Andrea University Hospital, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Ricci
- Radiology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Giacomo Sica
- Radiology Unit, Monaldi Hospital, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | - Mariano Scaglione
- Radiology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Salvatore Masala
- Radiology Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical and Experimental Sciences, University of Sassari, 07100 Sassari, Italy
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17
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Spence JD. Assessment of atherosclerosis: should coronary calcium score and intima-media thickness be replaced by ultrasound measurement of carotid plaque burden and vessel wall volume? Curr Opin Lipidol 2023; 34:126-132. [PMID: 37093105 DOI: 10.1097/mol.0000000000000880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To describe the uses of vessel wall volume (VWV) and measurement of carotid plaque burden, as total plaque area (TPA) and total plaque volume (TPV), and to contrast them with measurement of carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and coronary calcium (CAC). RECENT FINDINGS Measurement of carotid plaque burden (CPB) is useful for risk stratification, research into the genetics and biology of atherosclerosis, for measuring effects of new therapies for atherosclerosis, and for treatment of high-risk patients with severe atherosclerosis. It is as predictive of risk as CAC, with important advantages. IMT is only a weak predictor of risk and changes so little over time that it is not useful for assessing effects of therapy. SUMMARY Measurement of CPB and VWV are far superior to measurement of carotid IMT in many ways, and should replace it. Vessel wall volume can be measured in persons with no plaque as an alternative to IMT. There are important advantages of CPB over coronary calcium; CPB should be more widely used in vascular prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- J David Spence
- Professor Emeritus of Neurology, Western University, and Director, Stroke Prevention & Atherosclerosis Research Centre, Robarts Research Institute, 1400 Western Road, London, ON N6G 2V4, Canada
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18
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Vogel LH, Dykun I, Raggi P, Schmermund A, Rassaf T, Mahabadi AA. High- vs. Low-Intensity Statin Therapy and Changes in Coronary Artery Calcification Density after One Year. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12020476. [PMID: 36675405 PMCID: PMC9867203 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12020476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Statin therapy promotes the progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC). Comparing patients on high (HIST) vs. low-to-intermediate intensity statin therapy (LIST), randomized controlled trials with a one-year follow-up failed to document a relevant difference in the Agatston score and CAC volume. We evaluated whether statin intensity modifies CAC density at one year. Methods: We performed a pooled analysis of two randomized-controlled trials (BELLES, EBEAT), comparing the effects of HIST (Atorvastatin 80 mg) vs. LIST (Pravastatin 40 mg, Atorvastatin 10 mg) on CAC measures after one year. The differences in CAC density and its change were compared using the two-sided t-test. Results: Data from 852 patients (66.7% female) with available baseline and follow-up CT were evaluated from both trials. HIST vs. LIST more effectively reduced LDL-cholesterol (annualized change: −45.8 ± 38.5 vs. −72.9 ± 46.0 mg/dL, p < 0.001). Mean CAC density increased from 228.8 ± 35.4 HU to 232.6 ± 37.0 HU (p < 0.0001) at one-year follow-up. Comparing patients on HIST vs. LIST, CAC density at follow-up (HIST: 231.9 ± 36.1 HU vs. LIST: 233.3 ± 37.7 HU, p = 0.59) and its change from baseline (HIST: 4.0 ± 19.1 HU vs. LIST: 3.6 ± 19.6 HU, p = 0.73) did not differ. Subgroup analyses, stratifying by LDL reduction (<median: 2.0 ± 24.3 HU, ≥median: 3.6 ± 21.9 HU, p = 0.34), Agatston score at baseline (<100: 2.6 ± 22.5 HU vs. 3.2 ± 25.6 HU, p = 0.82; ≥100: 4.8 ± 17.0 HU vs. 3.8 ± 16.6 HU, p = 0.44, for HIST vs. LIST; respectively), and equal number of lesions in both CT scans (3.7 ± 20.3 HU vs. 7.0 ± 22.2 HU, p = 0.24) showed similar results. Conclusion: HIST vs. LIST leads to a higher reduction in cholesterol levels, which does not translate into relevant differences in the change of CAC density at one-year follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Hermann Vogel
- West German Heart and Vascular Center, Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Iryna Dykun
- West German Heart and Vascular Center, Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Paolo Raggi
- Department of Medicine Division of Cardiology, Alberta Heart Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Axel Schmermund
- Cardioangiological Center Bethanien, CCB, 60431 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Tienush Rassaf
- West German Heart and Vascular Center, Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
| | - Amir Abbas Mahabadi
- West German Heart and Vascular Center, Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, University Hospital Essen, 45147 Essen, Germany
- Correspondence:
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19
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de Araújo ALV, Santos RD, Bittencourt MS, Dantas RN, Oshiro CA, Nomura CH, Bor-Seng-Shu E, Oliveira MDL, Leite CDC, Martin MDGM, Alves MM, Silva GS, Silva VM, Conforto AB. Ischemic stroke caused by large-artery atherosclerosis: a red flag for subclinical coronary artery disease. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1082275. [PMID: 37122290 PMCID: PMC10130387 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1082275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronary calcium score (CAC) measured on chest computerized tomography is a risk marker of cardiac events and mortality. We compared CAC scores in two multiethnic groups without symptomatic coronary artery disease: subjects in the chronic phase after stroke or transient ischemic attack and at least one symptomatic stenosis ≥50% in the carotid or vertebrobasilar territories (Groupathero) and a control group (Groupcontrol). Methods In this cross-sectional study, Groupathero included two subgroups: GroupExtraorIntra, with stenoses in either cervical or intracranial arteries, and GroupExtra&Intra, with stenoses in at least one cervical and one intracranial artery. Groupcontrol had no history of prior stroke/transient ischemic attacks and no stenoses ≥50% in cervical or intracranial arteries. Age and sex were comparable in all groups. Frequencies of CAC ≥100 and CAC > 0 were compared between Groupathero and Groupcontrol, as well as between GroupExtraorIntr, GroupExtra&Intra, and Groupcontrol, with bivariate logistic regressions. Multivariate analyses were also performed. Results A total of 120 patients were included: 80 in Groupathero and 40 in Groupcontrol. CAC >0 was significantly more frequent in Groupathero (85%) than Groupcontrol (OR, 4.19; 1.74-10.07; p = 0.001). Rates of CAC ≥100 were not significantly different between Groupathero and Groupcontrol but were significantly greater in GroupExtra&Intra (n = 13) when compared to Groupcontrol (OR 4.67; 1.21-18.04; p = 0.025). In multivariate-adjusted analyses, "Groupathero" and "GroupExtra&Intra" were significantly associated with CAC. Conclusion The frequency of coronary calcification was higher in subjects with stroke caused by large-artery atherosclerosis than in controls.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raul D. Santos
- Heart Institute (Instituto do Coração), University of São Paulo, Medical School Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Academic Research Organization, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marcio Sommer Bittencourt
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Roberto Nery Dantas
- Heart Institute (Instituto do Coração), University of São Paulo, Medical School Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Academic Research Organization, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos André Oshiro
- Hospital das Clinicas, Neurology Clinical Division, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cesar Higa Nomura
- Heart Institute (Instituto do Coração), University of São Paulo, Medical School Hospital, São Paulo, Brazil
- Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein, Academic Research Organization, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edson Bor-Seng-Shu
- Hospital das Clinicas, Neurology Clinical Division, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Maramelia Miranda Alves
- Neurology and Neurosurgery Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gisele Sampaio Silva
- Neurology and Neurosurgery Department, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Victor Marinho Silva
- Hospital das Clinicas, Neurology Clinical Division, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana Bastos Conforto
- Hospital das Clinicas, Neurology Clinical Division, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Adriana Bastos Conforto
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20
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Figtree GA, Adamson PD, Antoniades C, Blumenthal RS, Blaha M, Budoff M, Celermajer DS, Chan MY, Chow CK, Dey D, Dwivedi G, Giannotti N, Grieve SM, Hamilton-Craig C, Kingwell BA, Kovacic JC, Min JK, Newby DE, Patel S, Peter K, Psaltis PJ, Vernon ST, Wong DT, Nicholls SJ. Noninvasive Plaque Imaging to Accelerate Coronary Artery Disease Drug Development. Circulation 2022; 146:1712-1727. [PMID: 36441819 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.122.060308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of adult mortality globally. Targeting known modifiable risk factors has had substantial benefit, but there remains a need for new approaches. Improvements in invasive and noninvasive imaging techniques have enabled an increasing recognition of distinct quantitative phenotypes of coronary atherosclerosis that are prognostically relevant. There are marked differences in plaque phenotype, from the high-risk, lipid-rich, thin-capped atheroma to the low-risk, quiescent, eccentric, nonobstructive calcified plaque. Such distinct phenotypes reflect different pathophysiologic pathways and are associated with different risks for acute ischemic events. Noninvasive coronary imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, positron emission tomography, and coronary magnetic resonance imaging, have major potential to accelerate cardiovascular drug development, which has been affected by the high costs and protracted timelines of cardiovascular outcome trials. This may be achieved through enrichment of high-risk phenotypes with higher event rates or as primary end points of drug efficacy, at least in phase 2 trials, in a manner historically performed through intravascular coronary imaging studies. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the current technology available and its application in clinical trials, including implications for sample size requirements, as well as potential limitations. In its effort to accelerate drug development, the US Food and Drug Administration has approved surrogate end points for 120 conditions, but not for CAD. There are robust data showing the beneficial effects of drugs, including statins, on CAD progression and plaque stabilization in a manner that correlates with established clinical end points of mortality and major adverse cardiovascular events. This, together with a clear mechanistic rationale for using imaging as a surrogate CAD end point, makes it timely for CAD imaging end points to be considered. We discuss the importance of global consensus on these imaging end points and protocols and partnership with regulatory bodies to build a more informed, sustainable staged pathway for novel therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gemma A Figtree
- Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Charles Perkins Centre (G.A.F., C.K.C.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Philip D Adamson
- Christchurch Heart Institute, University of Otago Christchurch, New Zealand (P.D.A.)
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom (P.D.A., D.E.N.)
| | - Charalambos Antoniades
- Acute Vascular Imaging Centre (C.A.), Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine (C.A.), Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Roger S Blumenthal
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Baltimore, MD (R.S.B., M. Blaha)
| | - Michael Blaha
- Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Baltimore, MD (R.S.B., M. Blaha)
| | | | - David S Celermajer
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Departments of Cardiology (D.S.C., S.P.), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Y Chan
- Department of Cardiology, National University Heart Centre, Singapore (M.Y.C.)
| | - Clara K Chow
- Westmead Applied Research Centre (C.K.C.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Charles Perkins Centre (G.A.F., C.K.C.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Damini Dey
- Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA (D.D.)
| | - Girish Dwivedi
- Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, University of Western Australia (G.D.)
- Department of Cardiology, Fiona Stanley Hospital, Perth, Australia (G.D.)
| | - Nicola Giannotti
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Stuart M Grieve
- Imaging and Phenotyping Laboratory (S.M.G.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Radiology (S.M.G.), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christian Hamilton-Craig
- Faculty of Medicine and Centre for Advanced Imaging, University of Queensland and School of Medicine, Griffith University Sunshine Coast, Australia (C.H.-C.)
| | | | - Jason C Kovacic
- Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, Australia (J.C.K.)
- St Vincent's Clinical School, University of NSW, Australia (J.C.K.)
- Cardiovascular Research Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY (J.C.K.)
| | | | - David E Newby
- British Heart Foundation Centre for Cardiovascular Science, University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom (P.D.A., D.E.N.)
| | - Sanjay Patel
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
- Departments of Cardiology (D.S.C., S.P.), Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Karlheinz Peter
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia (K.P.)
- Department of Cardiology, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia (K.P.)
| | - Peter J Psaltis
- Lifelong Health, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide (P.J.P.)
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Australia (P.J.P.)
| | - Stephen T Vernon
- Kolling Institute of Medical Research, Sydney, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Department of Cardiology, Royal North Shore Hospital, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Australia (G.A.F., S.T.V.)
- Faculty of Medicine and Health (G.A.F., D.S.C., N.G., S.P., S.T.V.), University of Sydney, Australia
| | - Dennis T Wong
- Monash Heart, Clayton, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
| | - Stephen J Nicholls
- Monash Heart, Clayton, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
- Victorian Heart Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia (D.T.W., S.J.N.)
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Henein MY, Vancheri S, Longo G, Vancheri F. The Role of Inflammation in Cardiovascular Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12906. [PMID: 36361701 PMCID: PMC9658900 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232112906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, in which the immune system has a prominent role in its development and progression. Inflammation-induced endothelial dysfunction results in an increased permeability to lipoproteins and their subendothelial accumulation, leukocyte recruitment, and platelets activation. Recruited monocytes differentiate into macrophages which develop pro- or anti-inflammatory properties according to their microenvironment. Atheroma progression or healing is determined by the balance between these functional phenotypes. Macrophages and smooth muscle cells secrete inflammatory cytokines including interleukins IL-1β, IL-12, and IL-6. Within the arterial wall, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol undergoes an oxidation. Additionally, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and remnant lipoproteins exert pro-inflammatory effects. Macrophages catabolize the oxidized lipoproteins and coalesce into a lipid-rich necrotic core, encapsulated by a collagen fibrous cap, leading to the formation of fibro-atheroma. In the conditions of chronic inflammation, macrophages exert a catabolic effect on the fibrous cap, resulting in a thin-cap fibro-atheroma which makes the plaque vulnerable. However, their morphology may change over time, shifting from high-risk lesions to more stable calcified plaques. In addition to conventional cardiovascular risk factors, an exposure to acute and chronic psychological stress may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease through inflammation mediated by an increased sympathetic output which results in the release of inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation is also the link between ageing and cardiovascular disease through increased clones of leukocytes in peripheral blood. Anti-inflammatory interventions specifically blocking the cytokine pathways reduce the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke, although they increase the risk of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Y. Henein
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umea University, 90187 Umea, Sweden
- Institute of Environment & Health and Societies, Brunel University, Middlesex SW17 0RE, UK
- Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St. George’s University, London UB8 3PH, UK
| | - Sergio Vancheri
- Interventional Neuroradiology Department, Besançon University Hospital, 25000 Besançon, France
| | - Giovanni Longo
- Cardiovascular and Interventional Department, S.Elia Hospital, 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
| | - Federico Vancheri
- Department of Internal Medicine, S.Elia Hospital, 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
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22
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Kole A, Joshi PH. Coronary Artery Calcium-Based Approach to Lipid Management. CURRENT CARDIOVASCULAR RISK REPORTS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s12170-022-00704-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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23
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Bélanger AM, Akioyamen LE, Ruel I, Hales L, Genest J. Aortic stenosis in homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: a paradigm shift over a century. Eur Heart J 2022; 43:3227-3239. [PMID: 35776569 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HoFH) is an orphan disease defined by extreme elevations in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, cutaneous xanthomas, and pre-mature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Survival has more than doubled over the past three decades. Aortic stenosis (AS) [supravalvular aortic stenosis (SVAS) or valvular aortic stenosis (VAS)] is commonly encountered. There are no medical treatments available and complex high-risk surgeries represent the only available option in severe cases. A systematic review was performed to summarize the current evidence on AS in HoFH and to determine whether pharmacological treatment (statins) have had an impact on clinical presentation, phenotype and clinical course over the past nine decades (PROSPERO CRD42021250565). METHODS AND RESULTS MEDLINE, Embase Classic + Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, AfricaWide, and Scopus were searched from inception to 10 November 2021. Searches identified 381 publications, of which 19 were retained; they were cross-sectional or retrospective studies. Separately, 108 individual case reports were described. Within the 424 HoFH cases, AS was identified in 57% of patients in the pre-statin era vs. 35% in patients reported more recently (>2000, long-term statin period). With an increase in longevity due to statins and lipoprotein apheresis, a change in the proportion of patients with SVAS and VAS with a SVAS:VAS ratio of 47:53 and 10:90 for HoFH patients not on statin and on long-term statin, respectively, was noted. CONCLUSION These data suggest that SVAS and VAS are frequent in HoFH and that the phenotype has shifted towards calcific VAS as statins and lipoprotein apheresis improve survival in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre M Bélanger
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001, Boul. Décarie, Office EM1.2212, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Leo E Akioyamen
- Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Isabelle Ruel
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001, Boul. Décarie, Office EM1.2212, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Lindsay Hales
- McGill University Health Centre Medical Libraries, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Jacques Genest
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, 1001, Boul. Décarie, Office EM1.2212, Montréal, Québec, Canada
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24
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German CA, Fanning J, Singleton MJ, Shapiro MD, Brubaker PH, Bertoni AG, Yeboah J. Physical Activity, Coronary Artery Calcium, and Cardiovascular Outcomes in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Med Sci Sports Exerc 2022; 54:800-806. [PMID: 34967800 PMCID: PMC9203864 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although the inverse relationship between physical activity (PA) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is well established, observational studies suggest that very high levels of PA may be harmful. This study sought to understand the relationship between PA, coronary artery calcium (CAC), and cardiovascular outcomes among individuals at different levels of risk. METHODS PA and CAC were assessed in 6777 baseline participants of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Total PA in MET-minutes per week was categorized into quartiles, and CAC was categorized as "low risk" (<100 Agatston units; n = 5180) and "high risk" (≥100 Agatston units; n = 1597). Cox proportional hazard regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier curves were generated to understand relationships between PA and CAC with CVD and all-cause mortality. RESULTS In low-risk participants in the highest PA quartile, there was a decrease in the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) for CVD (HR, 0.72; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.56-0.94) and all-cause mortality (HR, 0.69; 95% CI, 0.57-0.84) compared with those in the lowest PA quartile. In high-risk participants in the highest PA quartile, there was a decrease in the adjusted HR for all-cause mortality (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.47-0.74) compared with those in the lowest PA quartile. High PA was not associated with an increased risk of either outcome, regardless of CAC category, sex, or race/ethnicity. CONCLUSIONS Our research suggests that there is no increased risk associated with high levels of PA, even among individuals at high risk of CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles A German
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Jason Fanning
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Matthew J Singleton
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Michael D Shapiro
- Section of Cardiology, Center for Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Peter H Brubaker
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Alain G Bertoni
- Department of Epidemiology and Prevention, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Joseph Yeboah
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC
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García-Fernández-Bravo I, Torres-Do-Rego A, López-Farré A, Galeano-Valle F, Demelo-Rodriguez P, Alvarez-Sala-Walther LA. Undertreatment or Overtreatment With Statins: Where Are We? Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:808712. [PMID: 35571155 PMCID: PMC9105719 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.808712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Statins, in addition to healthy lifestyle interventions, are the cornerstone of lipid-lowering therapy. Other low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-lowering drugs include ezetimibe, bile acid sequestrants, and PCSK9 inhibitors. As new evidence emerges from new clinical trials, therapeutic goals change, leading to renewed clinical guidelines. Nowadays, LDL goals are getting lower, leading to the "lower is better" paradigm in LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) management. Several observational studies have shown that LDL-C control in real life is suboptimal in both primary and secondary preventions. It is critical to enhance the adherence to guideline recommendations through shared decision-making between clinicians and patients, with patient engagement in selecting interventions based on individual values, preferences, and associated conditions and comorbidities. This narrative review summarizes the evidence regarding the benefits of lipid-lowering drugs in reducing cardiovascular events, the pleiotropic effect of statins, real-world data on overtreatment and undertreatment of lipid-lowering therapies, and the changing LDL-C in targets in the clinical guidelines of dyslipidemias over the years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Torres-Do-Rego
- Internal Medicine, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Grupo (departamento) de investigación Riesgo cardiovascular y lípidos, Instituto de investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio López-Farré
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Francisco Galeano-Valle
- Internal Medicine, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Grupo (departamento) de investigación Riesgo cardiovascular y lípidos, Instituto de investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pablo Demelo-Rodriguez
- Internal Medicine, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Grupo (departamento) de investigación Riesgo cardiovascular y lípidos, Instituto de investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis A. Alvarez-Sala-Walther
- Internal Medicine, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Grupo (departamento) de investigación Riesgo cardiovascular y lípidos, Instituto de investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IiSGM), Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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26
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Svendsen CD, Kuiper KKJ, Ostridge K, Larsen TH, Nielsen R, Hodneland V, Nordeide E, Bakke PS, Eagan TM. Factors associated with coronary heart disease in COPD patients and controls. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0265682. [PMID: 35476713 PMCID: PMC9045629 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0265682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background COPD and coronary heart disease (CHD) frequently co-occur, yet which COPD phenotypes are most prone to CHD is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to see whether COPD patients did have a true higher risk for CHD than subjects without COPD, and to examine a range of potential factors associated with CHD in COPD patients and controls. Methods 347 COPD patients and 428 non-COPD controls, were invited for coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and pulmonary CT. Arterial blood gas, bioelectrical impedance and lung function was measured, and a detailed medical history taken. The CCTA was evaluated for significant coronary stenosis and calcium score (CaSc), and emphysema defined as >10% of total area <-950 Hounsfield units. Results 12.6% of the COPD patients and 5.7% of the controls had coronary stenosis (p<0.01), whereas 55.9% of the COPD patients had a CaSc>100 compared to 31.6% of the controls (p<0.01). In a multivariable model adjusting for sex, age, body composition, pack-years, CRP, cholesterol/blood pressure lowering medication use and diabetes mellitus, the OR (95% CI) for having significant stenosis was 1.80 (0.86–3.78) in COPD patients compared with controls. In a similar model, the OR (95% CI) for having CaSc>100 was 1.68 (1.12–2.53) in COPD patients compared with controls. Examining the risk of significant stenosis and CaSc>100 among COPD patients, no variable was associated with significant stenosis, whereas male sex [OR 2.85 (1.56–5.21)], age [OR 3.74 (2.42–5.77)], statin use [OR 2.23 (1.23–4.50)] were associated with CaSc>100, after adjusting for body composition, pack-years, C-reactive protein, use of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), diabetes, emphysema score, GOLD category, exacerbation frequency, eosinophilia, and hypoxemia. Conclusion COPD patients were more likely to have CHD, but neither emphysema score, lung function, exacerbation frequency, nor hypoxemia predicted presence of either coronary stenosis or CaSc>100.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina D. Svendsen
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Karel K. J. Kuiper
- Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Kristoffer Ostridge
- Faculty of Medicine, Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- Translational Science and Experimental Medicine, Research and Early Development, Respiratory & Immunology, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Terje H. Larsen
- Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Biomedicine, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Rune Nielsen
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Vidar Hodneland
- Department of Heart Disease, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Eli Nordeide
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per S. Bakke
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Tomas M. Eagan
- Department of Thoracic Medicine, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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Updates on the Use of Subclinical Atherosclerosis to Predict Risk of Cardiovascular Events in Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia. Curr Atheroscler Rep 2022; 24:407-418. [PMID: 35386094 DOI: 10.1007/s11883-022-01017-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The high variability of cardiovascular risk in heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) is a challenge for therapeutical management. Subclinical cardiovascular imaging represents a tool to overcome this challenge. The purpose of this review is to update the reader on the most recent findings on the non-invasive detection of atherosclerotic burden by carotid doppler ultrasound (US), coronary artery calcium (CAC) score, and computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA) for the optimization of risk stratification in HeFH subjects. RECENT FINDINGS Carotid ultrasound (US) proved its efficacy in the long-term follow-up of HeFH children treated early on with statins, showing a significant reduction of atherosclerotic progression compared to untreated unaffected siblings. The added value of CAC score has been confirmed to predict the risk of cardiovascular events and improve risk stratification provided by available risk equations in asymptomatic HeFH subjects from large prospective cross-national cohorts. Additionally, CTCA provides detailed information on plaque quality and stability, but its role in primary prevention HeFH subjects needs to be further explored. Cardiovascular imaging for the detection of subclinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in HeFH is a promising tool to improve diagnostic and therapeutical management of this undertreated and late-diagnosed disease.
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28
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Antonopoulos AS, Angelopoulos A, Tsioufis K, Antoniades C, Tousoulis D. Cardiovascular risk stratification by coronary computed tomography angiography imaging: current state-of-the-art. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2022; 29:608-624. [PMID: 33930129 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Current cardiovascular risk stratification by use of clinical risk score systems or plasma biomarkers is good but less than satisfactory in identifying patients at residual risk for coronary events. Recent clinical evidence puts now further emphasis on the role of coronary anatomy assessment by coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) for the management of patients with stable ischaemic heart disease. Available computed tomography (CT) technology allows the quantification of plaque burden, identification of high-risk plaques, or the functional assessment of coronary lesions for ischaemia detection and revascularization for refractory angina symptoms. The current CT armamentum is also further enhanced by perivascular Fat Attenuation Index (FAI), a non-invasive metric of coronary inflammation, which allows for the first time the direct quantification of the residual vascular inflammatory burden. Machine learning and radiomic features' extraction and spectral CT for tissue characterization are also expected to maximize the diagnostic and prognostic yield of CCTA. The combination of anatomical, functional, and biological information on coronary circulation by CCTA offers a unique toolkit for the risk stratification of patients, and patient selection for targeted aggressive prevention strategies. We hereby provide a review of the current state-of-the art in the field and discuss how integrating the full capacities of CCTA into clinical care pathways opens new opportunities for the tailored management of coronary artery disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexios S Antonopoulos
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 114 Vas. Sofias Avenue, 11527, Athens, Greece
- RDM Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Oxford Academic CT Programme, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK
| | - Andreas Angelopoulos
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 114 Vas. Sofias Avenue, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 114 Vas. Sofias Avenue, 11527, Athens, Greece
| | - Charalambos Antoniades
- RDM Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Oxford Academic CT Programme, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headley Way, OX3 9DU Oxford, UK
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 114 Vas. Sofias Avenue, 11527, Athens, Greece
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Cardiac Calcifications: Phenotypes, Mechanisms, Clinical and Prognostic Implications. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11030414. [PMID: 35336788 PMCID: PMC8945469 DOI: 10.3390/biology11030414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
There is a growing interest in arterial and heart valve calcifications, as these contribute to cardiovascular outcome, and are leading predictors of cardiovascular and kidney diseases. Cardiovascular calcifications are often considered as one disease, but, in effect, they represent multifaced disorders, occurring in different milieus and biological phenotypes, following different pathways. Herein, we explore each different molecular process, its relative link with the specific clinical condition, and the current therapeutic approaches to counteract calcifications. Thus, first, we explore the peculiarities between vascular and valvular calcium deposition, as this occurs in different tissues, responds differently to shear stress, has specific etiology and time courses to calcification. Then, we differentiate the mechanisms and pathways leading to hyperphosphatemic calcification, typical of the media layer of the vessel and mainly related to chronic kidney diseases, to those of inflammation, typical of the intima vascular calcification, which predominantly occur in atherosclerotic vascular diseases. Finally, we examine calcifications secondary to rheumatic valve disease or other bacterial lesions and those occurring in autoimmune diseases. The underlying clinical conditions of each of the biological calcification phenotypes and the specific opportunities of therapeutic intervention are also considered and discussed.
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30
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PCSK9 promotes arterial medial calcification. Atherosclerosis 2022; 346:86-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2022.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Cruz DE, Tahir UA, Hu J, Ngo D, Chen ZZ, Robbins JM, Katz D, Balasubramanian R, Peterson B, Deng S, Benson MD, Shi X, Dailey L, Gao Y, Correa A, Wang TJ, Clish CB, Rexrode KM, Wilson JG, Gerszten RE. Metabolomic Analysis of Coronary Heart Disease in an African American Cohort From the Jackson Heart Study. JAMA Cardiol 2021; 7:184-194. [PMID: 34851361 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2021.4925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Importance African American individuals have disproportionate rates of coronary heart disease (CHD) but lower levels of coronary artery calcium (CAC), a marker of subclinical CHD, than non-Hispanic White individuals. African American individuals may have distinct metabolite profiles associated with incident CHD risk compared with non-Hispanic White individuals, and examination of these differences could highlight important processes that differ between them. Objectives To identify novel biomarkers of incident CHD and CAC among African American individuals and to replicate incident CHD findings in a multiethnic cohort. Design, Setting, and Participants This analysis targeted plasma metabolomic profiling of 2346 participants in the Jackson Heart Study (JHS), a prospective population-based cohort study that included 5306 African American participants who were examined at baseline (2000-2004) and 2 follow-up visits. Replication of CHD-associated metabolites was sought among 1588 multiethnic participants from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI), a prospective population-based multiethnic cohort study of 161 808 postmenopausal women who were examined at baseline (1991-1995) and ongoing follow-up visits. Regression analyses were performed for each metabolite to examine the associations with incident CHD and CAC scores. Data were collected from the WHI between 1994 and 2009 and from the JHS between 2000 and 2015. All data were analyzed from November 2020 to August 2021. Exposures Plasma metabolites. Main Outcomes and Measures Incident CHD was defined as definite or probable myocardial infarction or definite fatal CHD in both the JHS and WHI cohorts. In the JHS cohort, silent myocardial infarction between examinations (as determined by electrocardiography) and coronary revascularization were included in the incident CHD analysis. Coronary artery calcium was measured using a 16-channel computed tomographic system and reported as an Agatston score. Results Among 2346 African American individuals in the JHS cohort, the mean (SD) age was 56 (13) years, and 1468 individuals (62.6%) were female. Among 1588 postmenopausal women in the WHI cohort, the mean (SD) age was 67 (7) years; 217 individuals (13.7%) self-identified as African American, 1219 (76.8%) as non-Hispanic White, and 152 (9.6%) as other races or ethnicities. In the fully adjusted model including 1876 individuals, 46 of 303 targeted metabolites were associated with incident CHD (false discovery rate q <0.100). Data for 32 of the 46 metabolites were available in the WHI cohort, and 13 incident CHD-associated metabolites from the JHS cohort were replicated in the WHI cohort. A total of 1439 participants from the JHS cohort with available CAC scores received metabolomic profiling. Nine metabolites were associated with CAC scores. Minimal overlap was found between the results from the incident CHD and CAC analyses, with only 3 metabolites shared between the 2 analyses. Conclusions and Relevance This cohort study identified metabolites that were associated with incident CHD among African American individuals, including 13 incident CHD-associated metabolites that were replicated in a multiethnic population and 9 novel metabolites that included N-acylamides, leucine, and lipid species. These findings may help to elucidate common and distinct metabolic processes that may be associated with CHD among individuals with different self-identified race.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel E Cruz
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Usman A Tahir
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jie Hu
- Division of Women's Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Debby Ngo
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Zsu-Zsu Chen
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jeremy M Robbins
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Daniel Katz
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Raji Balasubramanian
- Division of Women's Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Bennet Peterson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shuliang Deng
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mark D Benson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Xu Shi
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lucas Dailey
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Yan Gao
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Adolfo Correa
- Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson
| | - Thomas J Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas
| | - Clary B Clish
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Kathryn M Rexrode
- Division of Women's Health, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - James G Wilson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Robert E Gerszten
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.,Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
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Vahedian-Azimi A, Shojaie S, Banach M, Heidari F, Cicero AFG, Khoshfetrat M, Jamialahmadi T, Sahebkar A. Statin therapy in chronic viral hepatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of nine studies with 195,602 participants. Ann Med 2021; 53:1227-1242. [PMID: 34296976 PMCID: PMC8317925 DOI: 10.1080/07853890.2021.1956686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conflicting data suggest that statins could cause chronic liver disease in certain group of patients, while improving prognosis in those with chronic viral hepatitis (CVH). PURPOSE To quantify the potential protective role of statins on some main liver-related health outcomes in clinical studies on CVH patients.Data Sources: The search strategy was explored by a medical librarian using bibliographic databases, from January 2015 to April 2020.Data synthesis: The results showed no significant difference in the risk of mortality between statin users and non-users in the overall analysis. However, the risk of mortality significantly reduced by 39% in statin users who were followed for more than three years. Moreover, the risk of HCC, fibrosis, and cirrhosis in those on statins decreased by 53%, 45% and 41%, respectively. Although ALT and AST reduced slightly following statin therapy, this reduction was not statistically significant. LIMITATIONS A significant heterogeneity among studies was observed, resulting from differences in clinical characteristics between statin users and non-users, study designs, population samples, diseases stage, comorbidities, and confounding covariates. CONCLUSION Not only long-term treatment with statins seems to be safe in patients affected by hepatitis, but also it significantly improves their prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Vahedian-Azimi
- Trauma Research Center, Nursing Faculty, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sajad Shojaie
- Basic and Molecular Epidemiology of Gastrointestinal Disorders Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Hypertension, Chair of Nephrology and Hypertension, Medical University of Lodz, Lodz, Poland
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, University of Zielona Gora, Zielona Gora, Poland
| | - Farshad Heidari
- Nursing Care Research Center (NCRC), School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arrigo F. G. Cicero
- Atherosclerosis Research Unit, Medical and Surgical Sciences Department, Sant’Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Masoum Khoshfetrat
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Khatamolanbia Hospital, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Quchan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Quchan, Iran
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Libby P. Inflammation during the life cycle of the atherosclerotic plaque. Cardiovasc Res 2021; 117:2525-2536. [PMID: 34550337 PMCID: PMC8783385 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation orchestrates each stage of the life cycle of atherosclerotic plaques. Indeed, inflammatory mediators likely link many traditional and emerging risk factors with atherogenesis. Atheroma initiation involves endothelial activation with recruitment of leucocytes to the arterial intima, where they interact with lipoproteins or their derivatives that have accumulated in this layer. The prolonged and usually clinically silent progression of atherosclerosis involves periods of smouldering inflammation, punctuated by episodes of acute activation that may arise from inflammatory mediators released from sites of extravascular injury or infection or from subclinical disruptions of the plaque. Smooth muscle cells and infiltrating leucocytes can proliferate but also undergo various forms of cell death that typically lead to formation of a lipid-rich 'necrotic' core within the evolving intimal lesion. Extracellular matrix synthesized by smooth muscle cells can form a fibrous cap that overlies the lesion's core. Thus, during progression of atheroma, cells not only procreate but perish. Inflammatory mediators participate in both processes. The ultimate clinical complication of atherosclerotic plaques involves disruption that provokes thrombosis, either by fracture of the plaque's fibrous cap or superficial erosion. The consequent clots can cause acute ischaemic syndromes if they embarrass perfusion. Incorporation of the thrombi can promote plaque healing and progressive intimal thickening that can aggravate stenosis and further limit downstream blood flow. Inflammatory mediators regulate many aspects of both plaque disruption and healing process. Thus, inflammatory processes contribute to all phases of the life cycle of atherosclerotic plaques, and represent ripe targets for mitigating the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Libby
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 77 Avenue Louis Pasteur, Boston, MA, USA
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34
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Zafrir B, Saliba W, Widder RSL, Khoury R, Shemesh E, Halon DA. Value of addition of coronary artery calcium to risk scores in the prediction of major cardiovascular events in patients with type 2 diabetes. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2021; 21:541. [PMID: 34773970 PMCID: PMC8590310 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-021-02352-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increased risk for cardiovascular events in diabetics is heterogeneous and contemporary clinical risk score calculators have limited predictive value. We therefore examined the additional value of coronary artery calcium score (CACS) in outcome prediction in type 2 diabetics without clinical coronary artery disease (CAD). METHODS The study examined a population-based cohort of type 2 diabetics (n = 735) aged 55-74 years, recruited between 2006 and 2008. Patients had at least one additional risk factor and no history or symptoms of CAD. Risk assessment tools included Pooled Cohort Equations (PCE) and Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) 10-year risk score calculators and CACS. The occurrence of myocardial infarction (MI), stroke or cardiovascular death (MACE) was assessed over 10-years. RESULTS Risk score calculators predicted MACE and MI and cardiovascular death individually but not stroke. Increasing levels of CACS predicted MACE and its components independently of clinical risk scores, glycated hemoglobin and other baseline variables: hazard ratio (95% confidence interval) 2.92 (1.06-7.86), 6.53 (2.47-17.29) and 8.3 (3.28-21) for CACS of 1-100, 101-300 and > 300 Agatston units respectively, compared to CACS = 0. Addition of CACS to PCE improved discrimination of MACE [AUC of PCE 0.615 (0.555-0.676) versus PCE + CACS 0.696 (0.642-0.749); p = 0.0024]. Coronary artery calcium was absent in 24% of the study population and was associated with very low event rates even in those with high estimated risk scores. CONCLUSIONS CACS in asymptomatic type 2 diabetics provides additional prognostic information beyond that obtained from clinical risk scores alone leading to better discrimination between risk categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barak Zafrir
- Department of Cardiology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, 7 Michal St., Haifa, Israel. .,Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel.
| | - Walid Saliba
- Community Medicine and Epidemiology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel.,Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
| | | | - Razi Khoury
- Department of Cardiology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, 7 Michal St., Haifa, Israel
| | - Elad Shemesh
- Department of Cardiology, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, 7 Michal St., Haifa, Israel
| | - David A Halon
- Cardiovascular Clinical Research Institute, Lady Davis Carmel Medical Center, Haifa, Israel.,Faculty of Medicine, Technion, Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, Israel
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MicroRNAs in Valvular Heart Diseases: Biological Regulators, Prognostic Markers and Therapeutical Targets. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222212132. [PMID: 34830016 PMCID: PMC8618095 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222212132] [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: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
miRNAs have recently attracted investigators’ interest as regulators of valvular diseases pathogenesis, diagnostic biomarkers, and therapeutical targets. Evidence from in-vivo and in-vitro studies demonstrated stimulatory or inhibitory roles in mitral valve prolapse development, aortic leaflet fusion, and calcification pathways, specifically osteoblastic differentiation and transcription factors modulation. Tissue expression assessment and comparison between physiological and pathological phenotypes of different disease entities, including mitral valve prolapse and mitral chordae tendineae rupture, emerged as the best strategies to address miRNAs over or under-representation and thus, their impact on pathogeneses. In this review, we discuss the fundamental intra- and intercellular signals regulated by miRNAs leading to defects in mitral and aortic valves, congenital heart diseases, and the possible therapeutic strategies targeting them. These miRNAs inhibitors are comprised of antisense oligonucleotides and sponge vectors. The miRNA mimics, miRNA expression vectors, and small molecules are instead possible practical strategies to increase specific miRNA activity. Advantages and technical limitations of these new drugs, including instability and complex pharmacokinetics, are also presented. Novel delivery strategies, such as nanoparticles and liposomes, are described to improve knowledge on future personalized treatment directions.
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Hecking M, Karaboyas A, Schernthaner GH, Wanner C. Statin initiation in dialysis patients: The hardship of non-prescription. Atherosclerosis 2021; 337:53-56. [PMID: 34663493 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2021.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Manfred Hecking
- Department of Internal Medicine III, Clinical Division of Nephrology & Dialysis, Medical University of Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Gerit-Holger Schernthaner
- Department of Internal Medicine II, Clinical Division of Angiology, Medical University of Vienna, Austria.
| | - Christoph Wanner
- Department of Medicine I, Division of Nephrology, Universitätsklinik Würzburg, Germany
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Tintut Y, Honda HM, Demer LL. Biomolecules Orchestrating Cardiovascular Calcification. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11101482. [PMID: 34680115 PMCID: PMC8533507 DOI: 10.3390/biom11101482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification, once considered a degenerative, end-stage, and inevitable condition, is now recognized as a complex process regulated in a manner similar to skeletal bone at the molecular and cellular levels. Since the initial discovery of bone morphogenetic protein in calcified human atherosclerotic lesions, decades of research have now led to the recognition that the regulatory mechanisms and the biomolecules that control cardiovascular calcification overlap with those controlling skeletal mineralization. In this review, we focus on key biomolecules driving the ectopic calcification in the circulation and their regulation by metabolic, hormonal, and inflammatory stimuli. Although calcium deposits in the vessel wall introduce rupture stress at their edges facing applied tensile stress, they simultaneously reduce rupture stress at the orthogonal edges, leaving the net risk of plaque rupture and consequent cardiac events depending on local material strength. A clinically important consequence of the shared mechanisms between the vascular and bone tissues is that therapeutic agents designed to inhibit vascular calcification may adversely affect skeletal mineralization and vice versa. Thus, it is essential to consider both systems when developing therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Tintut
- Department of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.T.); (H.M.H.)
- Department of Physiology, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
| | - Henry M. Honda
- Department of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.T.); (H.M.H.)
| | - Linda L. Demer
- Department of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; (Y.T.); (H.M.H.)
- Department of Physiology, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- The David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California-Los Angeles, 10833 Le Conte Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-(310)-206-2677
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Vancheri F, Tate AR, Henein M, Backlund L, Donfrancesco C, Palmieri L, Strender LE. Time trends in ischaemic heart disease incidence and mortality over three decades (1990-2019) in 20 Western European countries: systematic analysis of the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2021; 29:396-403. [PMID: 34487157 DOI: 10.1093/eurjpc/zwab134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate and compare changes in the rates of ischaemic heart disease (IHD) incidence and mortality between 1990 and 2019 in 20 high-income Western European countries with similar public health systems and low cardiovascular risk. METHODS AND RESULTS The 2020 updated version of the Global Burden of Disease database was searched. Variability and differences in IHD incidence and mortality rates (per 100 000) between countries over time, were calculated. A piecewise linear (join point) regression model was used to identify the slopes of these trends and the points in time at which significant changes in the trends occur. Ischaemic heart disease incidence and mortality rates varied widely between countries but decreased for all between 1990 and 2019. The relative change was greater for mortality than for incidence. Ischaemic heart disease incidence rates declined by approximately 36% between 1990 and 2019, while mortality declined by approximately 60%. Breakpoint analysis showed that the largest decreases in incidence and mortality occurred between 1990 and 2009 (-32%, -52%, respectively), with a much slower decrease after that (-5.9%, -17.6%, respectively), and even a slight increase for some countries in recent years. The decline in both incidence and mortality was lower in the Mediterranean European countries compared to the Nordic and Central European regions. CONCLUSIONS In the Western European countries studied, the decline in age-standardized IHD incidence over three decades was slower than the decline in age-standardized IHD mortality. Decreasing trends of both IHD incidence and mortality has substantially slowed, and for some countries flattened, in more recent years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Vancheri
- Department of Internal Medicine, S.Elia Hospital, viale Luigi Monaco, 93100 Caltanissetta, Italy
| | | | - Michael Henein
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umea University, 90187 Umea, Sweden
| | | | - Chiara Donfrancesco
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-metabolic Diseases and Aging, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Palmieri
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-metabolic Diseases and Aging, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Lars-Erik Strender
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, SE 141 83 Huddinge, Sweden
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Measurement of Plaque Characteristics Using Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography: Achieving High Interobserver Performance. CJC Open 2021; 4:189-196. [PMID: 35198936 PMCID: PMC8843959 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjco.2021.09.022] [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: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is used to assess plaque characteristics, remodelling, and progression and regression. Few papers address standard operating procedures that ensure achievement of high interobserver reproducibility. Moreover, assessment of coronary artery bypass grafts has not been reported. Methods A training set of images was created of native coronary segments, spanning the full range of atheromatous disease from normal to severe, excluding totally occluded segments, and including segments with or without calcification (n = 24) and completely normal-appearing bypass grafts (n = 16). Three observers used a validated software program during a training phase to establish standard operating procedures and then to achieve high intraobserver performance based on Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Subsequently, interobserver variability for the laboratory as a whole was determined with a focus on measures of plaque volume, low- attenuation plaque (LAP), mixed plaque (MP), and calcified plaque (CP). Results We found no substantive differences in analytical issues between grafts and native vessels and emphasize the aggregated data. The range of mean total plaque percent was approximately 55% of total vessel volume with maximal interobserver mean absolute differences of 2% or less. Percent of LAP, MP, and CP demonstrated interobserver standard errors of 1% to 2% and interobserver mean absolute differences of 0% to 1%. Pearson’s correlations were all highly significant and ranged from 0.969 to 0.999. Conclusions CCTA provides a rich diversity of measures of atherosclerosis in coronary and bypass segments that are highly reproducible with experience and adherence to standard operating procedures.
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Trab T, Attar R, Jensen SE, Grøntved S, Frøkjær JB, Polcwiartek C, Nielsen RE. Coronary artery calcium in patients with schizophrenia. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:422. [PMID: 34425769 PMCID: PMC8381587 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03412-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major cause of increased mortality rates in patients with schizophrenia. Moreover, coronary artery calcium (CAC) score is associated with CHD. We hypothesized that patients with schizophrenia have more CAC than the general population and aimed to investigate the CAC score in patients with schizophrenia compared to norms based on the general population. Additionally, this study investigated if age, sex, diabetes, dyslipidemia and smoking were associated with the CAC score. METHODS In a cross-sectional study, 163 patients with schizophrenia underwent cardiac computed tomography, and the CAC score was measured and compared to norms by classifying the CAC scores in relation to the age- and gender matched norm 50th, 75th and 90th percentiles. Logistic and linear regression were carried out to investigate explanatory variables for the presence and extent of CAC, respectively. RESULTS A total of 127 (77.9%) patients had a CAC score below or equal to the matched 50th, 20 (12.3%) above the 75th and nine (5.5%) above the 90th percentile. Male sex (P < 0.05), age (P < 0.001) and smoking (P < 0.05) were associated with the presence of CAC while age (P < 0.001) and diabetes (P < 0.01) were associated with the extent of CAC. CONCLUSIONS The amount of CAC in patients with schizophrenia follows norm percentiles, and variables associated with the CAC score are similar in patients with schizophrenia and the general population. These findings indicate that the CAC score may not be sufficient to detect the risk of CHD in patients with schizophrenia. Future studies should explore other measures of subclinical CHD, including measures of peripheral atherosclerosis or cardiac autonomic neuropathy to improve early detection and intervention. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02885792 , September 1, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Trab
- Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.
- Department of Cardiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark.
| | - Rubina Attar
- Department of Cardiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Svend Eggert Jensen
- Department of Cardiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Simon Grøntved
- Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Jens Brøndum Frøkjær
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Radiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - René Ernst Nielsen
- Department of Psychiatry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
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Childs BG, Zhang C, Shuja F, Sturmlechner I, Trewartha S, Fierro Velasco R, Baker D, Li H, van Deursen JM. Senescent cells suppress innate smooth muscle cell repair functions in atherosclerosis. NATURE AGING 2021; 1:698-714. [PMID: 34746803 PMCID: PMC8570576 DOI: 10.1038/s43587-021-00089-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Senescent cells (SNCs) degenerate the fibrous cap that normally prevents atherogenic plaque rupture, a leading cause of myocardial infarction and stroke. Here we explored the underlying mechanism using pharmacological or transgenic approaches to clear SNCs in the Ldlr -/- mouse model of atherosclerosis. SNC clearance reinforced fully deteriorated fibrous caps in highly advanced lesions, as evidenced by restored vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) numbers, elastin content, and overall cap thickness. We found that SNCs inhibit VSMC promigratory phenotype switching in the first interfiber space of the arterial wall directly beneath atherosclerotic plaque, thereby limiting lesion entry of medial VSMCs for fibrous cap assembly or reinforcement. SNCs do so by antagonizing IGF-1 through the secretion of insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (Igfbp3). These data indicate that the intermittent use of senolytic agents or IGFBP-3 inhibition in combination with lipid lowering drugs may provide therapeutic benefit in atherosclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bennett G. Childs
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Fahad Shuja
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Ines Sturmlechner
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Molecular Genetics Section, Department of Pediatrics, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Shawn Trewartha
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Raul Fierro Velasco
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Darren Baker
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Hu Li
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
| | - Jan M. van Deursen
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester MN, United States
- Correspondence:
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Mohandas R, Chamarthi G, Segal MS. Nonatherosclerotic Vascular Abnormalities Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease. Cardiol Clin 2021; 39:415-425. [PMID: 34247754 DOI: 10.1016/j.ccl.2021.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Nonatherosclerotic vascular diseases are manifested by endothelial dysfunction, hypertension, vascular calcification, coronary microvascular dysfunction, and calciphylaxis. Unfortunately, there are no definitive treatments for many of these disorders other than hypertension. In addition, although hypertension is more difficult to treat in the chronic kidney disease population, it is necessary to try and target a blood pressure of less than 130/80 mm Hg through the use of aggressive angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, diuretics, and other antihypertensive medications. New therapies are being actively investigated in an attempt to treat nonatherosclerotic vascular diseases in the chronic kidney disease population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Mohandas
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Transplantation, University of Florida College of Medicine, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Nephrology and Hypertension Section, Gainesville Veterans Administration Medical Center, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Gajapathiraju Chamarthi
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Transplantation, University of Florida College of Medicine, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA
| | - Mark S Segal
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension & Transplantation, University of Florida College of Medicine, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA; Nephrology and Hypertension Section, Gainesville Veterans Administration Medical Center, CG-98, 1600 Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
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Nuotio K, Koskinen SM, Mäkitie L, Tuimala J, Ijäs P, Heikkilä HM, Saksi J, Vikatmaa P, Sorto P, Kasari S, Paakkari I, Silvennoinen H, Valanne L, Mäyränpää MI, Soinne L, Kovanen PT, Lindsberg PJ. Warfarin Treatment Is Associated to Increased Internal Carotid Artery Calcification. Front Neurol 2021; 12:696244. [PMID: 34322086 PMCID: PMC8311519 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.696244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Long-term treatment with the vitamin K antagonist warfarin is widely used for the prevention of venous thrombosis and thromboembolism. However, vitamin K antagonists may promote arterial calcification, a phenomenon that has been previously studied in coronary and peripheral arteries, but not in extracranial carotid arteries. In this observational cohort study, we investigated whether warfarin treatment is associated with calcification of atherosclerotic carotid arteries. Methods: Overall, 500 consecutive patients underwent carotid endarterectomy, 82 of whom had received long-term warfarin therapy. The extent of calcification was assessed with preoperative computed tomography angiography, and both macroscopic morphological grading and microscopic histological examination of each excised carotid plaque were performed after carotid endarterectomy. Results: Compared with non-users, warfarin users had significantly more computed tomography angiography-detectable vascular calcification in the common carotid arteries (odds ratio 2.64, 95% confidence interval 1.51–4.63, P < 0.001) and even more calcification in the internal carotid arteries near the bifurcation (odds ratio 18.27, 95% confidence interval 2.53–2323, P < 0.001). Histological analysis revealed that the intramural calcified area in plaques from warfarin users was significantly larger than in plaques from non-users (95% confidence interval 3.36–13.56, P = 0.0018). Conclusions: Long-lasting warfarin anticoagulation associated with increased calcification of carotid atherosclerotic plaques, particularly in locations known to be the predilection sites of stroke-causing plaques. The clinical significance of this novel finding warrants further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista Nuotio
- Neurology, Neurocenter, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Suvi M Koskinen
- Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Medical Imaging Center, Radiology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Laura Mäkitie
- Neurology, Neurocenter, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | | | - Petra Ijäs
- Neurology, Neurocenter, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna M Heikkilä
- Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jani Saksi
- Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pirkka Vikatmaa
- Abdominal Center, Vascular Surgery, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pia Sorto
- Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sonja Kasari
- Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilari Paakkari
- Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heli Silvennoinen
- Medical Imaging Center, Radiology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leena Valanne
- Medical Imaging Center, Radiology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mikko I Mäyränpää
- Pathology, Helsinki University and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lauri Soinne
- Neurology, Neurocenter, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Petri T Kovanen
- Wihuri Research Institute, Biomedicum Helsinki 1, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Perttu J Lindsberg
- Neurology, Neurocenter, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.,Clinical Neurosciences, Clinicum, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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44
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Zhelyazkova-Savova MD, Yotov YT, Nikolova MN, Nazifova-Tasinova NF, Vankova DG, Atanasov AA, Galunska BT. Statins, vascular calcification, and vitamin K-dependent proteins: Is there a relation? Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2021; 37:624-631. [PMID: 33634559 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The present cross-sectional clinical study aimed to examine the connection between statin exposure, coronary artery calcification (CAC), and vitamin K-dependent proteins (VKDPs) in patients with cardiovascular (CV) conditions. Two groups of patients were studied: patients with established CV disease (CVD) and healthy patients at moderate risk for CVD (a control group). The groups were also split into statin users and non-users. The following VKDPs were measured in plasma: uncarboxylated Matrix Gla-protein (ucMGP), undercarboxylated (ucOC), and carboxylated osteocalcin (cOC), Gla-rich protein (GRP). CAC score (CACS) was determined by multislice computed tomography. Among all the participants in the study, CACS was more pronounced in statin users compared to non-users; the same was found also among the CVD patients and among the controls. While the levels of ucMGP and GRP did not differ between statin users and non-users, ucOC and ucOC/cOC were significantly elevated in statin users, indicating vitamin K deficiency. There was a positive correlation between the levels of ucOC and CACS in the entire population and in the group of statin users, but not in statin non-users. No association was found between ucMGP or GRP and CACS. Statins had also an impact on the international normalized ratio and interacted with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Our results are in agreement with the existing evidence about positive association between statins and vascular calcification. They enlighten to a certain extent the possible mechanisms through which statins may enhance calcium accumulation in arterial wall, namely, by inhibition of vitamin K dependent proteins and functions involved in vascular protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria D Zhelyazkova-Savova
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Therapy, Varna Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Yoto T Yotov
- First Department of Internal Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Miglena N Nikolova
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular medicine and Nutrigenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Neshe F Nazifova-Tasinova
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular medicine and Nutrigenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Deyana G Vankova
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular medicine and Nutrigenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Atanas A Atanasov
- First Department of Internal Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Bistra Tz Galunska
- Department of Biochemistry, Molecular medicine and Nutrigenomics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Varna, Varna, Bulgaria
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45
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Pharmacogenetic association of diabetes-associated genetic risk score with rapid progression of coronary artery calcification following treatment with HMG-CoA-reductase inhibitors -results of the Heinz Nixdorf Recall Study. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2021; 394:1713-1725. [PMID: 34021798 PMCID: PMC8298241 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-021-02100-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
HMG-CoA-Reductase inhibitors (HMGRIs) are currently the most widely used group of drugs in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and are given preemptively to patients with high levels of cholesterol, including those with diabetes mellitus (DM). However, intake of HMGRIs also increases the progression of coronary artery calcification (CAC) and the risk of developing DM. This study aimed to investigate whether HMGRI intake interacts with the diabetes-associated genetic risk score (GRS) to affect CAC progression using data from the population-based Heinz Nixdorf Recall (HNR) study. CAC was measured in 3157 participants using electron-beam computed tomography twice, at baseline (CACb) and 5 years later (CAC5y). CAC progression was classified as slow, expected, or rapid based on predicted values. Weighted DM GRS was constructed using 100 diabetes mellitus-associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We used log-linear regression to evaluate the interaction of HMGRI intake with diabetes-associated GRS and individual SNPs on CAC progression (rapid vs. expected/slow), adjusting for age, sex, and log(CACb + 1). The prevalence of rapid CAC progression in the HNR study was 19.6%. We did not observe any association of the weighted diabetes mellitus GRS with the rapid progression of CAC (relative risk (RR) [95% confidence interval (95% CI)]: 1.01 [0.94; 1.10]). Furthermore, no indication of an interaction between GRS and HMGRI intake was observed (1.08 [0.83; 1.41]). Our analyses showed no indication that the impact of HMGRIs on CAC progression is significantly more severe in patients with a high genetic risk of developing DM than in those with a low GRS.
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46
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Cheng YL, Yang HY, Wu CY, Tsai CY, Chen CY, Hsiao CC, Hsu HH, Tian YC, Yen CL. Does Statin Therapy Reduce the Risks of Mortality and Major Adverse Cardiac and Cerebrovascular Events in Young Adults with End-Stage Renal Disease? Population-Based Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2021; 10:2097. [PMID: 34068144 PMCID: PMC8152985 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10102097] [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: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Among hemodialysis patients aged more than 40 years old, previous large-scale studies showed statin treatment had no effect on reducing cardiovascular adverse events. However, young-adult-onset end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients have different physicosocial factors compared to older ESRD patients. The benefit of statins in such a specific group has not been well evaluated. Through the use of Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD), young adult patients aged 20-40 with incident ESRD requiring permanent dialysis between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2015 were identified. The enrollees were further divided into two groups depending on whether they received statin therapy for more than 90 days (statin group) or never received any statin (nonstatin group) in the first year after initiation of dialysis. Propensity score weighting (PSW) was used to balance the baseline characteristics between the two groups. After PSW, the statin group (n = 771) exhibited a higher rate of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) (2.65% vs. 1.44%, hazard ratio (HR): 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.43-2.45), and acute myocardial infarction (1.51% vs. 0.30%, HR: 5.34, 95% CI: 3.40-8.39) compared to the nonstatin group (n = 1709). The risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular (CV) death. and stroke did not significantly differ between the two groups. Similar to older patients, this study demonstrated that statin therapy cannot offer any protective effects in reducing CV outcomes among young adult ESRD patients undergoing dialysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Lien Cheng
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Huang-Yu Yang
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Yi Wu
- Division of Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Chung-Ying Tsai
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
| | - Chao-Yu Chen
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Ching-Chung Hsiao
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Hao Hsu
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Ya-Chung Tian
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Chieh-Li Yen
- Kidney Research Center, Department of Nephrology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou Branch, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan; (Y.-L.C.); (H.-Y.Y.); (C.-Y.T.); (C.-Y.C.); (C.-C.H.); (H.-H.H.); (Y.-C.T.)
- College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
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47
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Kutikhin AG, Feenstra L, Kostyunin AE, Yuzhalin AE, Hillebrands JL, Krenning G. Calciprotein Particles: Balancing Mineral Homeostasis and Vascular Pathology. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2021; 41:1607-1624. [PMID: 33691479 PMCID: PMC8057528 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.120.315697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton G. Kutikhin
- Laboratory for Vascular Biology, Division of Experimental and Clinical Cardiology, Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Diseases, Kemerovo, Russian Federation (A.G.K., A.E.K., A.E.Y.)
| | - Lian Feenstra
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology (L.F., J.-L.H.), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology (L.F., G.K.), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Alexander E. Kostyunin
- Laboratory for Vascular Biology, Division of Experimental and Clinical Cardiology, Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Diseases, Kemerovo, Russian Federation (A.G.K., A.E.K., A.E.Y.)
| | - Arseniy E. Yuzhalin
- Laboratory for Vascular Biology, Division of Experimental and Clinical Cardiology, Research Institute for Complex Issues of Cardiovascular Diseases, Kemerovo, Russian Federation (A.G.K., A.E.K., A.E.Y.)
| | - Jan-Luuk Hillebrands
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology, Division of Pathology (L.F., J.-L.H.), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Guido Krenning
- Laboratory for Cardiovascular Regenerative Medicine, Department of Pathology and Medical Biology (L.F., G.K.), University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
- Sulfateq B.V., Admiraal de Ruyterlaan 5, 9726 GN, Groningen, the Netherlands (G.K.)
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48
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Libby P. Targeting Inflammatory Pathways in Cardiovascular Disease: The Inflammasome, Interleukin-1, Interleukin-6 and Beyond. Cells 2021; 10:951. [PMID: 33924019 PMCID: PMC8073599 DOI: 10.3390/cells10040951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent clinical trials have now firmly established that inflammation participates causally in human atherosclerosis. These observations point the way toward novel treatments that add to established therapies to help stem the growing global epidemic of cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, we now have a number of actionable targets whose clinical exploration will help achieve the goal of optimizing beneficial effects while avoiding undue interference with host defenses or other unwanted actions. This review aims to furnish the foundation for this quest by critical evaluation of the current state of anti-inflammatory interventions within close reach of clinical application, with a primary focus on innate immunity. In particular, this paper highlights the pathway from the inflammasome, through interleukin (IL)-1 to IL-6 supported by a promising body of pre-clinical, clinical, and human genetic data. This paper also considers the use of biomarkers to guide allocation of anti-inflammatory therapies as a step toward realizing the promise of precision medicine. The validation of decades of experimental work and association studies in humans by recent clinical investigations provides a strong impetus for further efforts to target inflammation in atherosclerosis to address the considerable risk that remains despite current therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Libby
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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49
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De Bosscher R, Dausin C, Claus P, Bogaert J, Dymarkowski S, Goetschalckx K, Ghekiere O, Belmans A, Van De Heyning CM, Van Herck P, Paelinck B, El Addouli H, La Gerche A, Herbots L, Heidbuchel H, Willems R, Claessen G. Endurance exercise and the risk of cardiovascular pathology in men: a comparison between lifelong and late-onset endurance training and a non-athletic lifestyle - rationale and design of the Master@Heart study, a prospective cohort trial. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2021; 7:e001048. [PMID: 33927885 PMCID: PMC8055127 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2021-001048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Low and moderate endurance exercise is associated with better control of cardiovascular risk factors, a decreased risk of coronary artery disease and atrial fibrillation (AF). There is, however, a growing proportion of individuals regularly performing strenuous and prolonged endurance exercise in which the health benefits have been challenged. Higher doses of endurance exercise have been associated with a greater coronary atherosclerotic plaque burden, risk of AF and myocardial fibrosis (MF). Methods and analysis Master@Heart is a multicentre prospective cohort study aiming to assess the incidence of coronary atherosclerosis, AF and MF in lifelong endurance athletes compared to late-onset endurance athletes (initiation of regular endurance exercise after the age of 30 years) and healthy non-athletes. The primary endpoint is the incidence of mixed coronary plaques. Secondary endpoints include coronary calcium scores, coronary stenosis >50%, the prevalence of calcified and soft plaques and AF and MF presence. Tertiary endpoints include ventricular arrhythmias, left and right ventricular function at rest and during exercise, arterial stiffness and carotid artery intima media thickness. Two hundred male lifelong athletes, 200 late-onset athletes and 200 healthy non-athletes aged 45–70 will undergo comprehensive cardiovascular phenotyping using CT, coronary angiography, echocardiography, cardiac MRI, 12-lead ECG, exercise ECG and 24-hour Holter monitoring at baseline. Follow-up will include online tracking of sports activities, telephone calls to assess clinical events and a 7-day ECG recording after 1 year. Ethics and dissemination Local ethics committees approved the Master@Heart study. The trial was launched on 18 October 2018, recruitment is complete and inclusions are ongoing. Trial registration number NCT03711539.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruben De Bosscher
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Christophe Dausin
- Movement Sciences, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Piet Claus
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Jan Bogaert
- Radiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Steven Dymarkowski
- Radiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Kaatje Goetschalckx
- Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Olivier Ghekiere
- Radiology, Jessa Ziekenhuis Campus Virga Jesse, Hasselt, Limburg, Belgium
| | - Ann Belmans
- Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | | | - Paul Van Herck
- Cardiology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
| | | | | | - André La Gerche
- Cardiology, St Vincent's Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lieven Herbots
- Cardiology, Jessa Ziekenhuis Campus Virga Jesse, Hasselt, Limburg, Belgium
| | | | - Rik Willems
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Guido Claessen
- Cardiovascular Sciences, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Cardiology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
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50
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Xian JZ, Lu M, Fong F, Qiao R, Patel NR, Abeydeera D, Iriana S, Demer LL, Tintut Y. Statin Effects on Vascular Calcification: Microarchitectural Changes in Aortic Calcium Deposits in Aged Hyperlipidemic Mice. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2021; 41:e185-e192. [PMID: 33472400 PMCID: PMC7990692 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.120.315737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Zhaojun Xian
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Mimi Lu
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Felicia Fong
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Rong Qiao
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Nikhil Rajesh Patel
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Dishan Abeydeera
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Sidney Iriana
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Linda L Demer
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Bioengineering (L.L.D.), University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Physiology (L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
| | - Yin Tintut
- Department of Medicine (J.Z.X., M.L., F.F., R.Q., N.R.P., D.A., S.I., L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Physiology (L.L.D., Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery (Y.T.), University of California, Los Angeles
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