Is Cardiac Diastolic Dysfunction a Part of Post-Menopausal Syndrome?

Menopause, epicardial adiposity and preserved ejection fraction heart failure

Postmenopausal women are overrepresented in the preserved ejection heart failure population. Expansion of visceral and epicardial adipose tissue during the menopause transition leads to local and low-grade systemic inflammation that in turn contributes to left ventricular concentric remodeling, diastolic dysfunction and the development and progression of preserved ejection fraction. In contrast to visceral adipose tissue imaging, epicardial adipose tissue can be inexpensively imaged on low radiation coronary calcium score computerized tomography examination. The menopause transition provides a unique time frame to evaluate the contribution of epicardial adipose tissue expansion to the pathogenesis of preserved ejection heart failure.

Sex differences in clinical characteristics and long-term clinical outcomes in Asian hospitalized heart failure patients

AIMS

Sex differences in long-term post-discharge clinical outcomes in Asian patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure (HF) persist despite the world-wide implementation of guideline-directed medical therapy for decades. The present study aims to elucidate the puzzling dilemma and to depict the directions of solution.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Between 2011 and 2020, a total of 12 428 patients (6518 men and 5910 women, mean age 73.50 ± 14.85) hospitalized for acute decompensated HF were retrospectively enrolled from a university HF cohort. Compared with men, women hospitalized for acute decompensated HF were older in age (76.40 ± 13.43 vs. 71.20 ± 15.67 years old, P < 0.0001) with more coexisting hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidaemia and moderate to severe chronic kidney disease, but less with ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (P < 0.0001). In echocardiography measurement parameters, women had smaller left ventricular and left atrial dimensions, higher left ventricular mass index, higher left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and more in HF with preserved ejection fraction (EF) category (LVEF > 50%) than men (P < 0.0001). In HF therapy, women compared with men received more guideline-directed medical HF therapies including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, but similar beta-blockers and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (P < 0.0001). Post-discharge long-term clinical outcomes after multivariate-adjusted analysis revealed that women compared with men had lower all-cause mortality [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 0.89, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.84-0.93], lower cardiovascular mortality (aHR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.80-0.99) and lower 1 year mortality (aHR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.84-0.99) but similar HF rehospitalization rate (aHR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.95-1.09) over 8 years of follow-up. The superiority of women over men in all-cause mortality was shown in HF with preserved EF (>50%) and HF with mildly reduced EF (40%-50%), but not in HF with reduced EF (<40%) category. Subgroup forest plot analysis showed body mass index, coexisting hypertension and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease as significant interacting factors.

CONCLUSIONS

With more coronary risk factors and medical comorbidities, less cardiac remodelling and better adherence to guideline-directed HF therapy, women hospitalized for acute decompensated HF demonstrated superiority over men in long-term post-discharge clinical outcomes, including all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality and 1 year mortality, and mainly in HF with preserved and mid-range EF categories, in the Asian HF cohort.

Changes in cardiovascular arachidonic acid metabolism in experimental models of menopause and implications on postmenopausal cardiac hypertrophy

Menopause is a normal stage in the human female aging process characterized by the cessation of menstruation and the ovarian production of estrogen and progesterone hormones. Menopause is associated with an increased risk of several different diseases. Cardiovascular diseases are generally less common in females than in age-matched males. However, this female advantage is lost after menopause. Cardiac hypertrophy is a disease characterized by increased cardiac size that develops as a response to chronic overload or stress. Similar to other cardiovascular diseases, the risk of cardiac hypertrophy significantly increases after menopause. However, the exact underlying mechanisms are not yet fully elucidated. Several studies have shown that surgical or chemical induction of menopause in experimental animals is associated with cardiac hypertrophy, or aggravates cardiac hypertrophy induced by other stressors. Arachidonic acid (AA) released from the myocardial phospholipids is metabolized by cardiac cytochrome P450 (CYP), cyclooxygenase (COX), and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzymes to produce several eicosanoids. AA-metabolizing enzymes and their respective metabolites play an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiac hypertrophy. Menopause is associated with changes in the cardiovascular levels of CYP, COX, and LOX enzymes and the levels of their metabolites. It is possible that these changes might play a role in the increased risk of cardiac hypertrophy after menopause.

The influence of estrogen on myocardial post-translational modifications and cardiac function in women

The lifetime risk of heart failure (HF) is comparable in men and women; nevertheless, disparities exist in our understanding of how HF differs between sexes. Several differences in cardiac physiology exist between men and women including the propensity to develop specific HF phenotypes. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with HF failure with reduced ejection fraction, while women have a greater propensity to develop HF with preserved ejection fraction. The mechanisms responsible for these differences remain unclear. Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of myofilament proteins likely contribute to these sex-specific propensities. The role of PTMs in heart disease is an expanding field with immense potential therapeutic targets. However, numerous PTMs remain underexplored, particularly in the context of the female heart. Estrogen, a key gonadal hormone, cardioprotective in pre-menopausal women and its loss with menopause likely contributes to disease in aging women. However, how estrogen regulates PTMs to contribute to HF development is not fully clear. This review outlines key sex differences in HF along with characterizing the contributions of novel myocardial PTMs in cardiac physiology and their regulation by estrogen. Collectively, we highlight the necessity for further investigation into women's heart health and the distinctive mechanisms distinguishing women from men.

A murine model of hypertensive heart disease in older women

We propose a new mouse (C57Bl6/J) model combining several features of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction encountered in older women, including hypertension from Angiotensin II infusion (AngII), menopause, and advanced age. To mimic menopause, we delayed ovariectomy (Ovx) at 12 months of age. We also studied the effects of AngII infusion for 28 days in younger animals and the impact of losing gonadal steroids earlier in life. We observed that AngII effects on heart morphology were different in younger and adult mice (3- and 12-month-old; 20 and 19% increase in heart weight. P < 0.01 for both) than in older animals (24-month-old; 6%; not significant). Ovariectomy at 12 months restored the hypertrophic response to AngII in elderly females (23%, p = 0.0001). We performed a bulk RNA sequencing study of the left ventricle (LV) and left atrial gene expression in elderly animals, controls, and Ovx. AngII modulated (|Log2 fold change| ≥ 1) the LV expression of 170 genes in control females and 179 in Ovx ones, 64 being shared. In the left atrium, AngII modulated 235 genes in control females and 453 in Ovx, 140 shared. We observed many upregulated genes associated with the extracellular matrix regulation in both heart chambers. Many of these upregulated genes were shared between the ventricle and the atrium as well as in control and Ovx animals, namely for the most expressed Ankrd1, Nppb, Col3a1, Col1a1, Ctgf Col8a1, and Cilp. Several circadian clock LV genes were modulated differently by AngII between control and Ovx females (Clock, Arntl, Per2, Cry2, and Ciart). In conclusion, sex hormones, even in elderly female mice, modulate the heart's hypertrophic response to AngII. Our study identifies potential new markers of hypertensive disease in aging female mice and possible disturbances of their cardiac circadian clock.

Impact of Frailty on Heart Failure Prognosis: Is Sex Relevant?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Heart failure (HF) is one of the most frequent causes of hospital admission in elderly patients, especially in women, who present a high prevalence of geriatric syndromes like frailty. Studies have suggested that frailty and its impact may also differ between males and females. Understanding how frailty may differently affect HF patients depending on sex is therefore imperative for providing personalized care. The aim of this review is to summarize the role of sex in the prognostic impact of frailty in HF patients.

RECENT FINDINGS

Numerous studies have identified frailty as a significant predictor of all-cause mortality and hospital readmissions. A recent study of elderly HF out-patients demonstrated that while women had a higher prevalence of frailty, it was an independent predictor of mortality and readmission only in men. Moreover, another study revealed that physical frailty was associated with time to first clinical event among men but not among women. These results raise the question about why frailty affects differently HF prognosis in men and women. Women with HF present a higher prevalence of frailty, especially when it is considered as physical decline. Nevertheless, frailty affects differently HF prognosis in men and women. Women with HF present lower mortality than men and frailty is related with prognosis only in men. The different severity of HF between men and women and other hormonal, psychosocial, and clinical factors might be involved in this fact.

Early menopause is associated with abnormal diastolic function and poor clinical outcomes in women with suspected angina

Early identification of women at high risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVD), with subsequent monitoring, will allow for improved clinical outcomes and generally better quality of life. This study aimed to identify the associations between early menopause, abnormal diastolic function, and clinical outcomes. This retrospective study included 795 menopausal women from is a nationwide, multicenter, registry of patients with suspected angina visiting outpatient clinic. The patients into two groups: early and normal menopause (menopausal age ≤ 45 and > 45 years, respectively). If participants met > 50% of the diastolic function criteria, they were classified as having normal diastolic function. Multivariable-adjusted Cox models were used to test associations between menopausal age and clinical outcomes including the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), over a median follow-up period of 771 days. Early menopause was associated with increased waist circumference (p = 0.001), diabetes prevalence (p = 0.003), obstructive coronary artery disease (p = 0.005), abnormal diastolic function (p = 0.003) and greater incidences of MACE, acute coronary syndrome, and hospitalization for heart failure. In patients with abnormal diastolic function, early menopause increased MACE risk significantly, with no significant difference in normal diastolic function. These findings highlight early menopause and abnormal diastolic function as being potential risk markers in women for midlife CVD events.

Sex-specific differences in risk factors, comorbidities, diagnostic challenges, optimal management, and prognostic outcomes of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: A comprehensive literature review

Due to hormonal variations, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains prevalent in women and affects almost half of the heart failure (HF) patients. Given the yearly death rate of 10-30% and the unavailability of medications targeting HFpEF, the need arises for a better understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of this syndrome. This comprehensive review explores sex-specific differences in traditional risk factors; female-specific factors that may impact HFpEF development and response to therapy, including variations in hormone levels that may occur pre- and post-menopausal or during pregnancy; and disparities in comorbidities, clinical presentation, and diagnostic challenges. Lastly, the review addresses prognostic outcomes, noting that women with HFpEF have a poor quality of life but a higher survival rate. It also discusses novel biomarkers and precision medicine, emphasizing their potential to improve early detection and personalized treatment.

Effects of aging and endurance exercise training on cardiorespiratory fitness and cardiac structure and function in healthy midlife and older women

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in women in developed societies. Unfavorable structural and functional adaptations within the heart and central blood vessels with sedentary aging in women can act as the substrate for the development of debilitating CVD conditions such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). The large decline in cardiorespiratory fitness, as indicated by maximal or peak oxygen uptake (V̇o2max and V̇o2peak, respectively), that occurs in women as they age significantly affects their health and chronic disease status, as well as the risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Midlife and older women who have performed structured endurance exercise training for several years or decades of their adult lives exhibit a V̇o2max and cardiac and vascular structure and function that are on par or even superior to much younger sedentary women. Therefore, regular endurance exercise training appears to be an effective preventative strategy for mitigating the adverse physiological cardiovascular adaptations associated with sedentary aging in women. Herein, we narratively describe the aging and short- and long-term endurance exercise training adaptations in V̇o2max, cardiac structure, and left ventricular systolic and diastolic function at rest and exercise in midlife and older women. The role of circulating estrogens on cardiac structure and function is described for consideration in the timing of exercise interventions to maximize beneficial adaptations. Current research gaps and potential areas for future investigation to advance our understanding in this critical knowledge area are highlighted.

Cellular and extracellular vaginal changes following murine ovarian removal

Loss of estrogen as a result of aging, pelvic cancer therapy, genetics, or eating disorders affects numerous body systems including the reproductive tract. Specifically, a chronic hypoestrogenic state fosters debilitating vaginal symptoms like atrophy, dryness, and dyspareunia. Current treatment options, including vaginal estrogen and hyaluronan (HA), anecdotally improve symptoms, but rectifying mechanisms are largely understudied. In order to study the hypoestrogenic vaginal environment, in particular the extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as understand the mechanisms behind current treatments and develop new therapies, we characterized a reliable and reproducible animal model. Bilateral ovariectomies (OVX) were performed on 9-week-old CD1 mice. After 1 month of estrogen loss due to ovarian removal, a phenotype that is similar to human vaginal tissue in an estrogen reduced state was noted in mice compared to sham-operated controls. The uterine to body weight ratio decreased by 80% and vaginal epithelium was significantly thinner in OVX compared to sham mice. Estrogen signaling was altered in OVX, but submucosal ERα localization did not reach statistical differences. HA localization in the submucosal area was altered and CD44 expression decreased in OVX mice. Collagen turn-over was altered following OVX. The inflammation profile was also disrupted, and submucosal vaginal CD45+ and F4/80+ cell populations were significantly reduced in the OVX mice. These results show altered cellular and molecular changes due to reduced estrogen levels. Developing new treatments for hypoestrogenic vaginal symptoms rely on better understanding of not only the cellular changes, but also the altered vaginal ECM environment. Further studies using this mouse model has the potential to advance women's vaginal health treatments and aid in understanding the interplay between organ systems in both healthy, aged, and diseased states.

Natriuretic Peptide Levels and Stages of Left Ventricular Dysfunction in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

In heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), natriuretic peptide (NP) levels are frequently lower. In several trials, the outcome differed between patients with low and high NP levels. This suggests that NP could be used to identify distinct stages of left ventricular (LV) remodeling and myocardial tissue composition. This study investigated cardiac remodeling/dysfunction and myocardial tissue characteristics assessed by echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in HFpEF patients in relation to NP levels. Clinical and echocardiographic data of 152 HFpEF patients were derived from outpatient visits. A total of 71 HFpEF patients underwent CMR-derived T1-mapping. Multivariable regression analyses were performed to examine the association of NT-proBNP categories ( median) and NT-proBNP as continuous variable with echocardiography and CMR-derived T1-mapping. Mean age was 71 ± 9, 93% of patients were women and median NT-proBNP was 195 pg/mL, with 35% of patients below the diagnostic cut-off value (<125 pg/mL). Patients with high NT-proBNP had comparable LV systolic function and LV relaxation but significantly worse LV stiffness and left atrial function compared with patients with low NT-proBNP. Higher NT-proBNP was significantly associated with higher LV stiffness and extracellular volume fraction (ECV) (β = 1.82, 95% CI: 0.19;3.44, p = 0.029). Higher NT-proBNP levels identify HFpEF patients with worse LV stiffness because of more severe myocardial extracellular matrix remodeling, representing an advanced stage of HFpEF.

Dynamic Evolution of Cardiac Function and Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Ovariectomized Rats and the Intervention Effect of Erxian Decoction

Aims

Abnormal changes in cardiac function have been reported in menopausal women, but there are few clinical studies on this topic. Erxian decoction (EXD) is a classic prescription that is widely used in the treatment of female menopausal diseases. The purpose of this study was to investigate the dynamic evolution of cardiac function and glucose and lipid metabolism in ovariectomized (OVX) rats and the intervention effect of EXD.

Materials and Methods

The OVX climacteric rat model was established by bilateral ovariectomy. After successful modeling, the rats were randomly divided into four groups: the sham operation (SHAM) group (equal volumes of purified water), OVX group (equal volumes of purified water), estradiol (E₂) group (1.8 × 10^-4 g/kg), and EXD group (9 g/kg). Each group of rats was treated for 16 weeks. At the 4^th, 8^th, 12^th, and 16^th weeks after treatment, the cardiac function of the rats in each group was evaluated by ultrasound. The coaxial method was used to measure blood pressure (BP). Serum endothelin-1 (ET-1) and angiotensin-2 (Ang II) levels were determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The strip method was used to measure fasting blood glucose (FBG). The serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels of rats were measured with the oxidase method. Direct methods were used to measure serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) levels. At week 16 of dosing, serum E₂ levels were determined by E₂ radioimmunoassay. The myocardium and uterus of the rats in each group were stained with HE (hematoxylin-eosin). The ultrastructure of the rat myocardium was observed by electron microscopy.

Results

After the 16^th week of treatment, the serum E₂ level decreased (P < 0.05), and the uterus was atrophied in OVX rats. The cardiac ejection fraction (EF%) decreased at 4 weeks after treatment, and systolic and diastolic function decreased after 12 weeks. After the 16^th week, the EF%, which reflects the "pump" function of the heart, decreased significantly (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). At the 4^th, 8^th, 12^th, and 16^th weeks of treatment, the systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean pressure (MBP) of the rats in the OVX group increased with time (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). The serum ET-1 and Ang II levels of rats in the OVX group increased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). In the OVX group, FBG was increased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), and blood lipids, especially LDL-C, were significantly increased (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). After the 16^th week of treatment, the myocardial tissue of OVX rats showed obvious pathological changes. EXD significantly increased serum E₂ levels (P < 0.01), decreased ET-1 and Ang II levels (P < 0.01), reduced the cardiac function risk factors BP, FBG, and blood lipids, and significantly improved cardiac function and structural changes in OVX rats (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01).

Conclusions

EXD can improve abnormal cardiac structure and function in OVX rats.

Atrial Fibrillation in Heart Failure with Preserved Left Ventricular Systolic Function: Distinct Elevated Risk for Cardiovascular Outcomes in Women Compared to Men

Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is prevalent in women and is associated with atrial fibrillation (AF). However, sex associations in AF-related HFpEF are not well explored. Aim: We studied differences between men and women with and without AF-related HFpEF symptoms on left ventricular (LV) geometry and diastolic dysfunction (DD) and their effect on cardiovascular events. Methods: Retrospectively, HFpEF patients with and without a history of AF referred for echocardiography were studied. Echocardiographic assessments were focused on LV geometry and diastolic functions. Patients were followed for the occurrence of cardiac events defined as death and cardiac hospitalization. Results: We studied 556 patients [age: 66.7 ± 17 years, 320 (58%) women, 91 (16%) AF]. Compared to HFpEF without AF (HFpEF-AF), HFpEF with AF patients (HFpEF+AF) were older (76 ± 13.8 vs. 64.9 ± 17.3 years, p < 0.001), had more risk factors, comorbidities, left ventricular hypertrophy (32 vs. 13%, p < 0.001), higher relative wall thickness (0.50 ± 0.14 vs. 0.44 ± 0.15, p < 0.001), and DD (56 vs. 30%, all p < 0.001). HFpEF+AF women had the worst clinical, LV geometric, and diastolic functional profiles and highest rates of cardiovascular outcomes compared to HFpEF+AF men and were the only group to predict outcomes (HR: 2.7, 95%CI: 1.4−5.1), while HFpEF-AF women were a low-risk group; HFpEF+AF and HFpEF-AF men had intermediate cardiovascular outcomes which were confirmed after propensity score matching. Conclusions: Among patients with HFpEF, women with AF had more abnormal LV geometry and diastolic function and had an increased risk of adverse cardiovascular outcomes independent of traditional risk factors, comorbidities, and baseline diastolic function.

GPER limits adverse changes to Ca2+ signalling and arrhythmogenic activity in ovariectomised guinea pig cardiomyocytes

Background: The increased risk of post-menopausal women developing abnormalities of heart function emphasises the requirement to understand the effect of declining oestrogen levels on cardiac electrophysiology and structure, and investigate possible therapeutic targets, namely the G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor 1 (GPER). Methods: Female guinea pigs underwent sham or ovariectomy (OVx) surgeries. Cardiomyocytes were isolated 150-days post-operatively. Membrane structure was assessed using di-8-ANEPPs staining and scanning ion conductance microscopy. Imunnohistochemistry (IHC) determined the localisation of oestrogen receptors. The effect of GPER activation on excitation-contraction coupling mechanisms were assessed using electrophysiological and fluorescence techniques. Downstream signalling proteins were investigated by western blot. Results: IHC staining confirmed the presence of nuclear oestrogen receptors and GPER, the latter prominently localised to the peri-nuclear region and having a clear striated pattern elsewhere in the cells. Following OVx, GPER expression increased and its activation reduced Ca²⁺ transient amplitude (by 40%) and sarcomere shortening (by 32%). In these cells, GPER activation reduced abnormal spontaneous Ca²⁺ activity, shortened action potential duration and limited drug-induced early after-depolarisation formation. Conclusion: In an animal species with comparable steroidogenesis and cardiac physiology to humans, we show the expression and localisation of all three oestrogen receptors in cardiac myocytes. We found that following oestrogen withdrawal, GPER expression increased and its activation limited arrhythmogenic behaviours in this low oestrogen state, indicating a potential cardioprotective role of this receptor in post-menopausal women.

Association of life-course reproductive duration with mortality: a population-based twin cohort study

BACKGROUND

Although age at menopause has been linked to mortality, the association between the entire reproductive lifespan and mortality remains unclear.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine to what extent life-course reproductive duration is associated with all-cause mortality and explore the role of a healthy lifestyle and familial background in such an association.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 11,669 women (mean age, 63.54 years) from the Swedish Twin Registry were followed for up to 19 years. Information on reproductive duration (the interval between ages at menarche and menopause) and lifestyle factors (including smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity; divided into unfavorable/intermediate/favorable) was collected on the basis of a structured questionnaire. Survival status was obtained from the Sweden Cause of Death Register. The data were analyzed using generalized estimating equation models, Laplace regression, and conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

In the generalized estimating equation model, compared with those with ≤34 reproductive years, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of all-cause mortality was 0.79 (0.68-0.90) for those with ≥40 reproductive years, which prolonged survival time by 0.84 (0.24-1.43) years. Women with ≥40 reproductive years plus a favorable lifestyle (odds ratio, 0.28; 95% confidence interval, 0.23-0.35) were at a lower risk of all-cause mortality than those with <40 reproductive years plus an unfavorable lifestyle. An additive interaction between ≥40 reproductive years and a favorable lifestyle on all-cause mortality was observed (attributable proportion, 0.584; 95% confidence interval, 0.016-1.151). The odds ratios in conditional logistic regression and generalized estimating equation models did not differ significantly (P=.67).

CONCLUSION

A longer reproductive lifespan is associated with reduced all-cause mortality and prolongs survival by 0.84 years. A favorable lifestyle may amplify the beneficial effect of longer reproductive lifespan on mortality. Familial background does not account for the observed association.

Cerebral arteriolar and neurovascular dysfunction after chemically induced menopause in mice

Cognitive decline is linked to decreased cerebral blood flow, particularly in women after menopause. Impaired cerebrovascular function precedes the onset of dementia, possibly because of reduced functional dilation in parenchymal arterioles. These vessels are bottlenecks of the cerebral microcirculation, and dysfunction can limit functional hyperemia in the brain. Large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels (BKCa) are the final effectors of several pathways responsible for functional hyperemia, and their expression is modulated by estrogen. However, it remains unknown whether BKCa function is altered in cerebral parenchymal arterioles after menopause. Using a chemically induced model of menopause, the 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD) model, which depletes follicles while maintaining intact ovaries, we hypothesized that menopause would be associated with reduced functional vasodilatory responses in cerebral parenchymal arterioles of wild-type mice via reduced BKCa function. Using pressure myography of isolated parenchymal arterioles, we observed that menopause (Meno) induced a significant increase in spontaneous myogenic tone. Endothelial function, assessed as nitric oxide production and dilation after cholinergic stimulation or endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization pathways, was unaffected by Meno. BKCa function was significantly impaired in Meno compared with control, without changes in voltage-gated K+ channel activity. Cerebral functional hyperemia, measured by laser-speckle contrast imaging during whisker stimulation, was significantly blunted in Meno mice, without detectable changes in basal perfusion. However, behavioral testing identified no change in cognition. These findings suggest that menopause induces cerebral microvascular and neurovascular deficits.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Cerebral parenchymal arterioles from menopause mice showed increased myogenic tone. We identified an impairment in smooth muscle cell BKCa channel activity, without a reduction in endothelium-dependent dilation or nitric oxide production. Microvascular dysfunction was associated with a reduction in neurovascular responses after somatosensory stimulation. Despite the neurovascular impairment, cognitive abilities were maintained in menopausal mice.

Diabesity in Elderly Cardiovascular Disease Patients: Mechanisms and Regulators

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the world. In 2019, 550 million people were suffering from CVD and 18 million of them died as a result. Most of them had associated risk factors such as high fasting glucose, which caused 134 million deaths, and obesity, which accounted for 5.02 million deaths. Diabesity, a combination of type 2 diabetes and obesity, contributes to cardiac, metabolic, inflammation and neurohumoral changes that determine cardiac dysfunction (diabesity-related cardiomyopathy). Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) is distributed around the myocardium, promoting myocardial inflammation and fibrosis, and is associated with an increased risk of heart failure, particularly with preserved systolic function, atrial fibrillation and coronary atherosclerosis. In fact, several hypoglycaemic drugs have demonstrated a volume reduction of EAT and effects on its metabolic and inflammation profile. However, it is necessary to improve knowledge of the diabesity pathophysiologic mechanisms involved in the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases for comprehensive patient management including drugs to optimize glucometabolic control. This review presents the mechanisms of diabesity associated with cardiovascular disease and their therapeutic implications.

Prevalence and prognosis of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in community hypertension patients

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) is common in hypertension and is a predictor of increased cardiovascular risk, however the effect of LVDD, detected by new guideline, on major adverse cardiac events (MACE) is unknown in hypertensive patients without known cardiovascular disease. The present study aims to evaluate LVDD in a community hypertension cohort study and assess the effect of LVDD on MACE. we studied 283 asymptomatic nonischemic patients with hypertension who had baseline echocardiogram between 2012 and 2014. Patients were followed for MACE (myocardial infarction, coronary revascularization procedures, heart failure, stroke, all-cause mortality) with mean follow-up of 5.4 years. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to assess the association of LVDD with MACE. At baseline, 35 of the 283 hypertensions were diagnosed with LVDD (12.3%) and 25 patients were women (15.5%). Women had higher frequency of LVDD than men (8%). During follow-up, there were 26.6% patients occurring MACE in the LVDD group at baseline, 9.9% patients occurring MACE in the group with normal diastolic function. In multivariable Cox regression analyses, LVDD was a stronger predictor of MACE (HR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.20 to 5.25; c- statistics 0.805) than E/e' ratio (HR: 1.13; 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.22). LVDD was strongly associated with MACE in hypertension patients.

Ellagic Acid Prevents Myocardial Infarction-induced Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Ovariectomized Rats

Estrogen deficiency is associated with increased oxidative stress, which can contribute to left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD). We hypothesized that oral treatment with ellagic acid (EA), a potent and natural antioxidant compound, can improve MI-induced LVDD in ovariectomized rats, by reducing the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Ovariectomized rats MI-induced LVDD followed by treatment with vehicle (DD) or EA (DD+EA) for 4 weeks. Non-LVDD-induced rats treated with vehicle (S) or EA (S+EA) were used as controls. Left ventricular systolic pressure: LVSP; left ventricular end-diastolic pressure: LVEDP; maximum rate of pressure rise: +dP/dt and fall: -dP/dt) were evaluated in all animals after treatment. Left ventricle superoxide anion formation was quantified in situ by fluorescence. Phospho-CAMKII, SOD2, catalase and gp91-phox abundances were evaluated by Western blot analyses. SOD and catalase activities were measured by spectrophotometry. The results showed that the LVEDP was significantly increased in both DD and DD+EA groups compared to S and S+EA. However, LVEDP in the DD+EA group was significantly decreased compared to DD, indicating an EA-mediated effect. In the DD group, superoxide production and gp91-phox protein abundance were increased while SOD2 abundance was decreased when compared to the S and S+EA groups. An increase in SOD activity was also observed in the DD+EA group. EA treatment reduced CaMKII phosphorylation in the DD+EA group compared to the DD. We concluded that EA treatment attenuated diastolic dysfunction in our experimental model, via reduction of ROS and CaMKII activity, indicating EA as a promising natural therapeutic option for cardiac dysfunction.

Crossroads between Estrogen Loss, Obesity, and Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction

The prevalence of obesity and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) increases significantly in postmenopausal women. Although obesity is a risk factor for left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD), the mechanisms that link the cessation of ovarian hormone production, and particularly estrogens, to the development of obesity, LVDD, and HFpEF in aging females are unclear. Clinical, and epidemiologic studies show that postmenopausal women with abdominal obesity (defined by waist circumference) are at greater risk for developing HFpEF than men or women without abdominal obesity. The study presents a review of clinical data that support a mechanistic link between estrogen loss plus obesity and left ventricular remodeling with LVDD. It also seeks to discuss potential cell and molecular mechanisms for estrogen-mediated protection against adverse adipocyte cell types, tissue depots, function, and metabolism that may contribute to LVDD and HFpEF.

Gender-Related Differences in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Gender-related differences in phenotypic expression and outcomes have been established in many cardiac conditions; however, the impact of gender in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) remains unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the differences in clinical outcomes between female and male HCM patients.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE and EMBASE from inception to October 2020. Included were cohort studies that compared outcomes of interest including all-cause mortality, HCM-related mortality, and worsening heart failure (HF) or HF hospitalization between male and female. Data from each study were combined using the random effects model to calculate pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Eleven retrospective cohort studies with a total of 9,427 patients (3,719 females) were included. Female gender was significantly associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (pooled OR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.26-2.10, p ≤ 0.001), HCM-related mortality (pooled OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.08-2.01, p = 0.015), and worsening HF or HF hospitalization (pooled OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.76-2.39, p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

Female gender was associated with a worse prognosis in HCM. These findings suggest the need for improved care in women including early identification of disease and more possible aggressive management. Moreover, gender-based strategy may benefit in HCM patients.

Predominance of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction in Postmenopausal Women: Intra- and Extra-Cardiomyocyte Maladaptive Alterations Scaffolded by Estrogen Deficiency

Heart failure (HF) remains a public health concern as it is associated with high morbidity and death rates. In particular, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) represents the dominant (>50%) form of HF and mostly occurring among postmenopausal women. Hence, the initiation and progression of the left ventricular diastolic dysfunctions (LVDD) (a typically clinical manifestation of HFpEF) in postmenopausal women have been attributed to estrogen deficiency and the loss of its residue cardioprotective effects. In this review, from a pathophysiological and immunological standpoint, we discuss the probable multiple pathomechanisms resulting in HFpEF, which are facilitated by estrogen deficiency. The initial discussions recap estrogen and estrogen receptors (ERs) and β-adrenergic receptors (βARs) signaling under physiological/pathological states to facilitate cardiac function/dysfunction, respectively. By reconciling these prior discussions, attempts were made to explain how the loss of estrogen facilitates the disruptions both ERs and βARs-mediated signaling responsible for; the modulation of intra-cardiomyocyte calcium homeostasis, maintenance of cardiomyocyte cytoskeletal and extracellular matrix, the adaptive regulation of coronary microvascular endothelial functions and myocardial inflammatory responses. By scaffolding the disruption of these crucial intra- and extra-cardiomyocyte physiological functions, estrogen deficiency has been demonstrated to cause LVDD and increase the incidence of HFpEF in postmenopausal women. Finally, updates on the advancements in treatment interventions for the prevention of HFpEF were highlighted.

Rationale and design of the Women's Ischemia Trial to Reduce Events in Nonobstructive CAD (WARRIOR) trial

BACKGROUND

Approximately half of all women with anginal symptoms and/or signs of ischemia and no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) referred for coronary angiography have elevated risk for major adverse cardiac events (MACE), poor quality of life and resource consumption. Yet, guidelines focus on symptom management while clinical practice typically advocates only reassurance. Pilot studies of INOCA subjects suggest benefit with intensive medical therapy (IMT) that includes high-intensity statins and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) or receptor blockers (ARB) to provide the rationale for a randomized pragmatic trial to limit MACE.

METHODS

The Women's IschemiA TRial to Reduce Events In Non-ObstRuctive CAD is a multicenter, prospective, randomized, blinded outcome evaluation (PROBE design) of a pragmatic strategy of IMT vs usual care (UC) in 4,422 symptomatic women with INOCA (NCT03417388) in approximately 70 United States sites. The hypothesis is that IMT will reduce the primary outcome of first occurrence of MACE by 20% vs. UC at ∼2.5 year followup. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, time to return to "duty"/work, healthcare utilization, angina, cardiovascular death and individual primary outcome components over 3 years follow-up. The study utilizes web-based data capture, e-consents, single IRB and centralized pharmacy distribution of strategy medications directly to patients' homes to reduce site and patient burden. A biorepository will collect blood samples to assess potential mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this trial will provide important data necessary to inform guidelines regarding how best to manage this growing and challenging population of women with INOCA.

Obesity-associated cardiovascular risk in women: hypertension and heart failure

The pathogenesis of obesity-associated cardiovascular diseases begins long prior to the presentation of a cardiovascular event. In both men and women, cardiovascular events, and their associated hospitalizations and mortality, are often clinically predisposed by the presentation of a chronic cardiovascular risk factor. Obesity increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases in both sexes, however, the clinical prevalence of obesity, as well as its contribution to crucial cardiovascular risk factors is dependent on sex. The mechanisms via which obesity leads to cardiovascular risk is also discrepant in women between their premenopausal, pregnancy and postmenopausal phases of life. Emerging data indicate that at all reproductive statuses and ages, the presentation of a cardiovascular event in obese women is strongly associated with hypertension and its subsequent chronic risk factor, heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In addition, emerging evidence indicates that obesity increases the risk of both hypertension and heart failure in pregnancy. This review will summarize clinical and experimental data on the female-specific prevalence and mechanisms of hypertension and heart failure in women across reproductive stages and highlight the particular risks in pregnancy as well as emerging data in a high-risk ethnicity in women of African ancestry (AA).

Menopausal symptoms and risk of heart failure: a retrospective analysis from Taiwan National Health Insurance Database

Aims

Women with menopausal symptoms show evidence of accelerated epigenetic ageing, vascular aging and low‐grade systemic inflammation status. However, data are limited regarding menopausal symptoms and risk of heart failure (HF). We aimed to explore the impact of menopausal symptoms on risk of HF.

Methods

We included 14 340 symptomatic menopausal women without a history of coronary heart disease (CHD) or HF from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database as the experimental cohort. We included 14 340 asymptomatic women matched for age and comorbidities as controls. We surveyed possible comorbidity‐attributable risks of HF and assessed whether menopausal symptoms play a role in risk of HF. Additional analyses were conducted to ascertain the association of CHD and HF in different risk factor burdens categories in both cohorts and CHD was applied as a sensitivity analysis.

Results

The incidence of HF was not significantly lower in the experimental than in the control cohort (4.87 vs. 5.06 per 1000 person‐years, P = 0.336). Participants with a higher comorbidity burden had a proportionally increased risk of HF and CHD in both cohorts. The burden of risk factors had a greater impact on risk of HF in the control than in the experimental cohort (≥five risk factors, adjusted hazard ratio 25.69 vs. 14.75). Participants undergoing hormone therapy had no significant effect on the risk of HF, regardless of the presence or absence of menopausal symptoms. Subgroup analysis revealed that compared with the control cohort, the risk of HF in the experimental cohort did not increase significantly in all subgroups.

Conclusions

Menopausal symptoms were associated with CHD risk but not with risk of HF. Traditional risk factors rather than menopausal symptoms play important roles in the HF risk among middle‐aged women.

Sex-Specific Relationship Between Parathyroid Hormone and Platelet Indices in Phenotypes of Heart Failure-Results From the MyoVasc Study

Background: Heart failure (HF) is a multifactorial syndrome with pathophysiological complexities still not fully understood. Higher mean platelet volume (MPV), a potential marker of platelet activation, and high concentrations of parathyroid hormone (PTH) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of HF.

Aim: This study aims to investigate sex-specifically the association between PTH concentrations and platelet indices in phenotypes of HF.

Methods and Results: PTH and platelet indices (MPV and platelet count) were available in 1,896 participants from the MyoVasc study in Mainz, Germany. Multivariable linear regression models, adjusted for age, sex, season, vitamin D status, cardiovascular risk factors, comorbidities, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and medication, were used to assess the associations between platelet indices and PTH. The results showed distinct sex-specific associations between PTH and platelet indices. A positive association between PTH and MPV was found in females with symptomatic HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) only [β = 0.60 (0.19; 1.00)]. Platelet count was inversely associated with PTH in male HFrEF individuals [β = −7.6 (−15; −0.30)] and in both males and females with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Conclusion: This study reports differential, sex-specific relationships between PTH and platelet indices in HF individuals independent of vitamin D status and clinical profile. Particularly in phenotypes of symptomatic HF, distinct associations were observed, suggesting a sex-specific mechanism involved in the interaction between PTH and platelets.

Gender differences in the prevalence of frailty in heart failure: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

This study quantitatively synthesized literature to identify gender differences in the prevalence of frailty in heart failure (HF).

BACKGROUND

The intersection of frailty and HF continues to garner interest. Almost half of patients with HF are frail; however, gender differences in frailty in HF are poorly understood.

METHODS

We performed a literature search to identify studies that reported prevalence of frailty by gender in HF. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to quantify the relative and absolute risk of frailty in women compared with men with HF, overall, and by Physical and Multidimensional Frailty measures. Meta-regression was performed to examine the influence of study age and functional class on relative risk in HF.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies involving 8854 adults with HF were included. Overall in HF, women had a 26% higher relative risk of being frail compared with men (95% CI = 1.14-1.38, z = 4.69, p < 0.001, I2 = 76.5%). The overall absolute risk for women compared to men with HF being frail was 10% (95% CI = 0.06-0.15, z = 4.41, p < 0.001). The relative risk of frailty was slightly higher among studies that used Physical measures (relative risk = 1.27, p < 0.001) compared with studies that used Multidimensional measures (relative risk = 1.24, p = 0.024). There were no significant relationships between relative risk and either study age or functional class.

CONCLUSIONS

In HF, frailty affects women significantly more than men. Future work should focus on elucidating potential causes of gender differences in frailty in HF.

Associations between menopause, cardiac remodeling, and diastolic function: the CARDIA study

OBJECTIVES

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) affects more women than men. Menopause may influence HFpEF development in women. We assessed cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between menopause and echocardiographic measures of left ventricular (LV) function and cardiac remodeling.

METHODS

We studied 1,723 women with available echo data from at least two of: year 5 (Y5) (1990-1991), Y25 (2010-2011), or Y30 (2015-2016) in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study. Cardiac structure and function were measured using 2D and Doppler echocardiography. Cross-sectional associations between menopausal status and repeated echo measures at Y25 and Y30 were analyzed using linear mixed models. Two-segmented models were used to compare longitudinal changes in echocardiographic measures in the premenopausal period to changes in the postmenopausal period.

RESULTS

Mean ± SD age (years) at enrollment was 27 ± 3 in those with menopause by Y25, 25 ± 3 in those with menopause between Y25 and Y30, and 21 ± 3 in those premenopausal at Y30. There were no significant differences in race, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, or diabetes between the groups. Postmenopausal women had higher early diastolic mitral inflow (E) to annular (e') velocity ratio than premenopausal after adjusting for demographics and risk factors (P < 0.05). Menopause was associated with relative increases in the rates of change in LV mass and left atrial volume, even after adjustment. Change in E/e' ratio was similar before and after menopause.

CONCLUSIONS

Menopause is associated cross-sectionally with worse diastolic function and longitudinally with adverse LV and left atrial remodeling. This may contribute to the increased HFpEF risk in postmenopausal women.

Age-related alterations in cardiac and arterial structure and function in hypertensive women and men

The study was to compare age‐related alterations in cardiac and arterial structure and function by sex and to explore the impacts of achieved systolic blood pressure (SBP; <130 mm Hg vs. <140 mm Hg) level on age‐related alterations in cardiac and arterial structure and function in hypertensive women and men. Community hypertensive individuals without cardiovascular disease who had echocardiographic examination were included. Age‐related alterations in cardiac and arterial structure and function were compared by sex, and interplay between age and sex was analyzed according to achieved SBP level. The mean age of the cohort was 66.5 years, and women accounted for 62% (n = 602) of the cohort (n = 971). Compared to men, women had worse left ventricular (LV) diastolic function and greater LV and arterial stiffness. After adjusting for covariates, the magnitude of the associations between age with septal E/e′ ratio, septal S′ velocity, effective arterial elastance (Ea) and LV end‐diastolic elastance (Eed) were greater in women. Sex differences in the magnitude of association between age with these four indices varied according to achieved SBP level. When achieved SBP <130 mm Hg, the magnitude of the associations between age with septal E/e′ ratio, septal S′ velocity, Ea and Eed did not differ by sex. Since age and sex are non‐modifiable, achieving SBP target, especially at a lower level, might be beneficial to attenuate sex differences in age‐related alterations in cardiac and arterial structure and function.

Effects of hormone replacement therapy on left ventricular diastolic function in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postmenopausal women tend to experience significant changes in left ventricular diastolic function (LVDF). However, there are conflicting reports about LVDF between postmenopausal women on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and those not on HRT. This meta-analysis is to evaluate the effects of HRT on LVDF in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

We conducted a systemic review of randomized controlled trials published up to December 31 2019 using Embase, Pubmed, and the Cochrane library database.

RESULTS

Eight studies involving 668 postmenopausal women were identified. Our analysis indicated that the ratio of the peak velocity during early filing to late filling from atrial contraction improvement in HRT group was better than that in placebo group (MD 0.20, 95%CI 0.12 to 0.28). There was a significant reduction in deceleration time and left ventricular mass index in HRT group compared with placebo group (MD -21.01, 95%CI -40.11 to -1.91 vs MD -8.26, 95%CI -14.10 to -2.42). No significant difference was observed in left ventricular end systole diameter (MD 0.80, 95%CI -0.72 to 2.31), left ventricular end diastole diameter (MD -0.07, 95%CI -1.25 to 1.10), left atrial size (MD -0.33, 95%CI -1.34 to 0.68)and the isovolumic relaxation time (MD -12.08, 95%CI -27.65 to 3.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis illustrated that postmenopausal women seem to obtain more beneficial effects from HRT on LVDF, though future studies are required to elucidate the specific mechanisms for this phenomenon.

Deletion of P21-activated kinase-1 induces age-dependent increased visceral adiposity and cardiac dysfunction in female mice

It is known that there is an age-related progression in diastolic dysfunction, especially prevalent in postmenopausal women, who develop heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF, EF > 50%). Mechanisms and therapies are poorly understood, but there are strong correlations between obesity and HFpEF. We have tested the hypothesis that P21-activated kinase-1 (PAK1) preserves cardiac function and adipose tissue homeostasis during aging in female mice. Previous demonstrations in male mice by our lab that PAK1 activity confers cardio-protection against different stresses formed the rationale for this hypothesis. Our studies compared young (3-6 months) and middle-aged (12-15 months) female and male PAK1 knock-out mice (PAK1-/-) and wild-type (WT) equivalent. Female WT mice exhibited increased cardiac PAK1 abundance during aging. By echocardiography, compared to young WT female mice, middle-aged WT female mice showed enlargement of the left atrium as well as thickening of posterior wall and increased left ventricular mass; however, all contraction and relaxation parameters were preserved during aging. Compared to WT controls, middle-aged PAK1-/- female mice demonstrated worsening of cardiac function involving a greater enlargement of the left atrium, ventricular hypertrophy, and diastolic dysfunction. Moreover, with aging PAK1-/- female mice, unlike male PAK1-/- mice, exhibited increased adiposity with increased accumulation of visceral adipose tissue. Our data provide evidence for the significance of PAK1 signaling as an element in the preservation of cardiac function and adipose tissue homeostasis in females during aging.

Effect of Adherence to Physical Exercise on Cardiometabolic Profile in Postmenopausal Women

Background: Menopause is associated with negative cardiovascular adaptations related to estrogen depletion, which could be counteracted by physical exercise (PhE). However, the impact of total adherence-rate (TA) to PhE and sedentary time (SedT) on cardiometabolic profile in this population has not been elucidated. Methods: For 13-weeks, 43 women (57.1 ± 4.7 years) participated in a 4-days-a-week moderate-intensity walking training. They underwent laboratory, anthropometric and echocardiographic assessment, before and after training (T0-T1). Spontaneous physical activity (PhA) was assessed with a portable multisensory device. The sample was divided according to TA to PhE program: <70% (n = 17) and ≥70% (n = 26). Results: TA ≥ 70% group experienced a significant T1 improvement of relative wall thickness (RWT), diastolic function, VO2max, cortisol, cortisol/dehydroandrostenedione-sulphate ratio and serum glucose. After adjusting for SedT and 10-min bouts of spontaneous moderate-to-vigorous PhA, TA ≥ 70% showed the most significant absolute change of RWT and diastolic function, body mass index, weight and cortisol. TA ≥ 70% was major predictor of RWT and cortisol improvement. Conclusions: In a group of untrained, postmenopausal women, a high TA to a 13-weeks aerobic PhE program confers a better improvement in cardiometabolic profile, regardless of SedT and PhA levels.

Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Aging and Heart Failure

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

This review summarizes sex-related changes in the heart and vasculature that occur with aging, both in the presence and absence of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

RECENT FINDINGS

In the presence of CVD risk factors and/or overt CVD, sex-specific changes in the number of cardiomyocytes, extent of the myocardial extracellular matrix, and myocellular hypertrophy promote unique patterns of LV remodeling in men and women. In addition, age- and sex-specific vascular stiffening is also well established, driven by changes in endothelial dysfunction, elastin-collagen content, microvascular dysfunction, and neurohormonal signaling. Together, these changes in LV chamber geometry and morphology, coupled with heightened vascular stiffness, appear to drive both age-related increases in systolic function and declines in diastolic function, particularly in postmenopausal women. Accordingly, estrogen has been implicated as a key mediator, given its direct vasodilating properties, association with nitric oxide excretion, and involvement in myocellular Ca2+ handling, mitochondrial energy production, and oxidative stress. The culmination of the abovementioned sex-specific cardiac and vascular changes across the lifespan provides important insight into heart failure development, particularly of the preserved ejection fraction variety, while offering promise for future preventive strategies and therapeutic approaches.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: Similarities and differences between women and men

The syndrome of heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is now recognized to account for up to half of HF cases and is the dominant form of HF in older adults, especially women. Multiple factors conspire in this predilection of HFpEF for older women. This review will discuss the epidemiology, pathophysiology, prognosis, and treatment of HFpEF with emphasis on the similarities and differences in cardiovascular aging changes, and the differential impact of comorbidities in women versus men. Responses to pharmacologic and lifestyle interventions are also reviewed. We conclude by suggesting future directions for both prevention and treatment of this common and highly morbid cardiovascular disorder.

Female Heart Health: Is GPER the Missing Link?

The G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) is a novel membrane-bound receptor that mediates non-genomic actions of the primary female sex hormone 17β-estradiol. Studies over the past two decades have elucidated the beneficial actions of this receptor in a number of cardiometabolic diseases. This review will focus specifically on the cardiac actions of GPER, since this receptor is expressed in cardiomyocytes as well as other cells within the heart and most likely contributes to estrogen-induced cardioprotection. Studies outlining the impact of GPER on diastolic function, mitochondrial function, left ventricular stiffness, calcium dynamics, cardiac inflammation, and aortic distensibility are discussed. In addition, recent data using genetic mouse models with global or cardiomyocyte-specific GPER gene deletion are highlighted. Since estrogen loss due to menopause in combination with chronological aging contributes to unique aspects of cardiac dysfunction in women, this receptor may provide novel therapeutic effects. While clinical studies are still required to fully understand the potential for pharmacological targeting of this receptor in postmenopausal women, this review will summarize the evidence gathered thus far on its likely beneficial effects.