Iron deficiency and cardiovascular disease

Iron Status Correlates Strongly to Insulin Resistance Among US Adults: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

CONTEXT

Evidence on the link between iron status markers and insulin resistance (IR) is limited.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to explore the relationship between iron status and IR among US adults.

METHODS

This study involved 2993 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003-2006, 2017-2020. IR is characterized by a homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)-IR value of ≥2.5. Weighted linear and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine the linear relationships between iron status and IR. Furthermore, restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to identify the nonlinear dose-response associations. Stratified analyses by age, sex, body mass index, and physical activity were also performed. Last, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the predictive value of iron status in IR.

RESULTS

In weighted linear analyses, serum iron (SI) exhibited a negative correlation with HOMA-IR (β -0.03, 95% CI -0.05, -0.01, P = .01). In weighted multivariate logistic analyses, iron intake and the serum transferrin receptor (sTfR) were positively correlated with IR (OR 1.02, 95% CI 1.00-1.04, P = .04; OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02-1.13, P = .01). Also, SI and transferrin saturation (TSAT) were negatively correlated with IR (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.98, P < .0001; OR 0.98, 95% CI 0.97-0.99, P < .001) after adjusting for confounding factors. RCS depicted a nonlinear dose-response relationship between sTfR and TSAT and IR. This correlation remained consistent across various population subgroups. The ROC curve showed that TSAT performed better than iron intake, SI and sTfR in ROC analyses for IR prediction.

CONCLUSION

All biomarkers demonstrated significantly lower risk of IR with increasing iron levels, which will contribute to a more comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the relationship between the 2 and provide a solid foundation for future exploration of the mechanisms underlying their relationship.

Impact of Uterine Leiomyomas on Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Young Reproductive-Aged Women: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study

Background/Objectives: Uterine leiomyomas are the most common benign gynecological tumors in women of reproductive age and are often associated with localized symptoms. However, emerging evidence suggests a link between uterine leiomyomas and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly myocardial infarction (MI) and ischemic stroke (IS). This study aimed to investigate the relationship between uterine leiomyomas and the risk of CVD events in young women aged 20-39 years using a large, nationwide, population-based cohort. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from the National Health Insurance Service database of South Korea of 2,581,700 women aged 20-39 years who underwent health screening between 2009 and 2012. Uterine leiomyomas were identified using International Code of Disease, 10th Edition codes. CVD events (MI and IS) were defined according to hospital claims and radiological data. Multivariate hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated to evaluate the association between leiomyomas and CVD after adjusting for confounders (age, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and body mass index). Results: In all, 58,812 were diagnosed with uterine leiomyomas, and 25,063 underwent surgical treatment. During the follow-up period, MI occurred in 115 women (0.21%) and IS in 82 women (0.15%) in the leiomyoma group, compared with 3107 cases of MI (0.12%) and 2240 cases of IS (0.09%) in the non-leiomyoma group. The leiomyoma group demonstrated a higher incidence rate of CVD (IR: 0.63 vs. 0.39 per 1000 person-years). After adjusting for confounding factors such as age, lifestyle, comorbidities, and body mass index (BMI), the hazard ratio (HR) for MI was 1.32, indicating a statistically significant increase in cardiovascular risk. The risk of CVD was lower in women who underwent surgical treatment; however, when specifically analyzing the occurrence of MI and IS, no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups. Conclusions: Uterine leiomyomas are associated with an increased risk of MI and IS in young women. Surgical treatment itself may be associated with additional cardiovascular risks. Further research is needed to develop strategies to mitigate these risks and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Iron-Mediated Regulation in Adipose Tissue: A Comprehensive Review of Metabolism and Physiological Effects

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Review the latest data regarding the intersection of adipose tissue (AT) and iron to meet the needs of AT metabolism and the progression of related diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS

Iron is involved in fundamental biological metabolic processes and is precisely fine-tuned within the body to maintain cellular, tissue and even systemic iron homeostasis. AT not only serves as an energy storage depot but also represents the largest endocrine organ in the human body, maintaining systemic metabolic homeostasis. It is involved in physiological processes such as energy storage, insulin sensitivity regulation and lipid metabolism. As a unique iron-sensing tissue, AT expresses related regulatory factors, including the classic hepcidin, ferroportin (FPN), iron regulatory protein/iron responsive element (IRP/IRE) and ferritin. Consequently, the interaction between AT and iron is intricately intertwined. Imbalance of iron homeostasis produces the potential risks of steatosis, impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance, leading to AT dysfunction diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Despite the role of AT iron has garnered increasing attention in recent years, a comprehensive review that systematically organizes the connection between iron and AT remains lacking. Given the necessity of iron homeostasis, emphasizing its potential impact on AT function and metabolism regulation provides valuable insights into physiological effects such as adipocyte differentiation and thermogenesis. Futhermore, regulators including adipokines, mitochondria and macrophages have been mentioned, along with analyzing the novel perspective of iron as a key mediator influencing the fat-gut crosstalk.

The impact of iron deficiency on prognosis in stroke and non-stroke populations: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Iron deficiency (ID) leads to a significant global health burden, but research on the impact of ID on the prognosis of stroke patients is rare. We aim to investigate the impact of ID on the all-cause mortality of both the stroke and non-stroke individuals.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This retrospective cohort study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted from 1999 to 2002. The follow-up period for the participants extended until December 31, 2019. Overall, 7239 participants were enrolled, out of which 200 had a history of stroke. There was no difference in the prevalence of ID (ferritin <100 ng/mL or serum ferritin concentration 100-299 ng/mL with transferrin saturation (TSAT) < 20 %) between stroke and non-stroke individuals (68 % vs 65 %, P = 0.5) even after propensity score matching (68 % vs 63 %, P = 0.5). In stroke survivors, ID was found to be associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality over a 5-year period (HR: 4.16, 95 % CI: 1.54-11.3, P = 0.005). Additionally, there was no link between ID and all-cause mortality in individuals without stroke. Moreover, we did not observe a significant association between dietary iron, total folate, and ID in stroke patients.

CONCLUSION

Stroke survivors with low serum ferritin levels have an increased risk of 5-year all-cause mortality. Health care providers should consider screening for ID among individuals with a history of stroke. Future clinical trials examining the effects of iron therapy on patients with stroke and coexisting ID are warranted.

Translating evidence into practice: Managing electrolyte imbalances and iron deficiency in heart failure

Mineral abnormalities are a common complication of heart failure (HF). In particular, dyskalaemia, hyponatraemia, and hypomagnesaemia are prevalent, with hypo- and hyperkalaemia observed in over 40 % of HF patients, hyponatraemia in 18-27 %, hypomagnesaemia in 7-52 %, and phosphate imbalance in 13 %. These abnormalities serve as indicators of the severity of HF and are strongly associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. The neurohumoral activation, including the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), the sympathetic nervous system, and vasopressin, HF medications such as diuretics and RAAS inhibitors, amd concomitant diseases such as chronic kidney disease, can disrupt mineral homeostasis. Iron deficiency (ID) is another of the most common mineral abnormalities, affecting up to 60 % of HF patients. ID is significantly associated with adverse clinical outcomes such as reduced quality of life and exercise capacity, HF re-hospitalization, and all-cause mortality. Various pathways contribute to the development of ID in HF, including reduced iron intake due to anorexia, increased hepcidin levels associated with chronic inflammation and hepatic congestion, and occult gastrointestinal bleeding due to the concomitant use of antithrombotic agents. The efficacy of iron replacement therapy has been demonstrated in clinical trials, particularly in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), whilst more recently, it has also been shown to improve exercise capacity in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). This review focuses on potassium and phosphate abnormalities, hyponatraemia, hypomagnesaemia, and ID in HF, providing a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms, clinical significance, and intervention strategies with the latest findings.

Associations Between Hemoglobin and Serum Iron Levels and the Risk of Mortality Among Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between hemoglobin and serum iron levels and mortality risk in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

We analyzed data from 3224 patients with CAD using Cox proportional hazards regression models to assess the association of hemoglobin and serum iron levels with cardiovascular and all-cause mortality from the Guangdong coronary artery disease cohort.

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up period of 8.9 years, 636 patients died, including 403 from cardiovascular causes. Higher hemoglobin and serum iron levels were linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Patients in the highest quartiles of hemoglobin and serum iron levels had multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of 0.62 (95% CI, 0.46-0.85) and 0.51 (95% CI, 0.37-0.69) for cardiovascular mortality and 0.64 (95% CI, 0.50-0.83) and 0.67 (95% CI, 0.53-0.85) for all-cause mortality, compared with those in the lowest quartile. A one-standard-deviation increase in hemoglobin and serum iron levels corresponded to a 19% and 24% reduction in cardiovascular mortality risk and a 19% reduction in all-cause mortality risk for both factors. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed L-shaped and U-shaped associations between hemoglobin and serum iron levels and cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Hemoglobin and serum iron levels were significantly associated with lower risks of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality in patients with CAD. Further research is needed to evaluate the effects of iron supplementation in these patients.

Longitudinal anemia status and risk for adverse outcomes in former smokers with COPD

BACKGROUND

Anemia is a prevalent comorbidity in COPD associated with increased morbidity. However, the significance of longitudinal anemia status and variation in anemia status trends over time in COPD are not known. Furthermore, individuals with COPD and smoking history often have multiple comorbidities, in particular cardiovascular disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate the association between longitudinal anemia status and COPD outcomes, accounting for comorbid cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

Serial hemoglobin measures and clinical outcomes were obtained in former smokers with moderate to severe COPD from two clinical studies over a 6-to-9-month period. In the first analysis, the association between repeated measures of time-varying anemia status and outcomes was assessed by generalized estimating equations adjusted for covariates including cardiovascular disease. In the second analysis, each participant's anemia risk profile during the study period was characterized as high versus low anemia risk-growth rate. Mean differences in the progression of COPD outcomes over time between the two groups were assessed using a generalized linear mixed model. Effect modification by baseline coronary artery calcium (CAC) burden was explored.

RESULTS

There were 159 individuals with mean age of 66.5 years (± 8.3) and mean FEV1% predicted of 51.4% (± 17.0), of which 41% were ever-anemic during the study period. Repeated measures of anemia status were associated with higher St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) scores (β 2.5, 95% CI: 0.1,4.8, p = 0.04), lower 6-minute walk distance (6MWD) (β -38.6, 95% CI: -67.7,-7.4, p = 0.02), and higher rate of moderate-to-severe exacerbations over the prospective follow-up period (IRR 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1,2.8, p = 0.02). There was effect modification by CAC burden such that with higher burden the mean difference in COPD outcome by anemia status was greater for a subset of symptom scores. Participants with profiles of increasing anemia risk had higher estimated rates of decline in the FEV1% predicted and 6MWD and increase in SGRQ scores compared to those with stable or decreasing anemia risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Longitudinal anemia status trends may be predictive of COPD disease trajectory. Anemia status by repeated measures analysis is associated with COPD morbidity with potentially stronger associations in the setting of high CAC burden.

Novel loci and biomedical consequences of iron homoeostasis variation

Iron homoeostasis is tightly regulated, with hepcidin and soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) playing significant roles. However, the genetic determinants of these traits and the biomedical consequences of iron homoeostasis variation are unclear. In a meta-analysis of 12 cohorts involving 91,675 participants, we found 43 genomic loci associated with either hepcidin or sTfR concentration, of which 15 previously unreported. Mapping to putative genes indicated involvement in iron-trait expression, erythropoiesis, immune response and cellular trafficking. Mendelian randomisation of 292 disease outcomes in 1,492,717 participants revealed associations of iron-related loci and iron status with selected health outcomes across multiple domains. These associations were largely driven by HFE, which was associated with the largest iron variation. Our findings enhance understanding of iron homoeostasis and its biomedical consequences, suggesting that lifelong exposure to higher iron levels is likely associated with lower risk of anaemia-related disorders and higher risk of genitourinary, musculoskeletal, infectious and neoplastic diseases.

Genetic insights into the effect of trace elements on cardiovascular diseases: multi-omics Mendelian randomization combined with linkage disequilibrium score regression analysis

Objective

Epidemiological evidence indicates that trace elements are significantly associated with cardiovascular health. However, its causality and underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the causal relationship between trace elements and cardiovascular disease, as well as their potential mechanism of action.

Method

Two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses along with mediated and multivariate MR analyses were employed. These analyses utilized 13 trace elements as exposure variables and 20 cardiovascular diseases as outcome variables, with 4907 circulating plasma proteins, 1400 serum metabolites, 731 immune cell phenotypes, and 473 intestinal flora as potential mediators. The Bayesian weighted MR method was used to validate the MR results, and linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) was applied to explore the genetic correlation between trace elements and cardiovascular disease.

Result

Our findings indicated a positive or negative causal relationship between genetically predicted trace elements and cardiovascular disease. An analysis using the Bayesian weighted MR method demonstrated that our causal inference results were reliable. The results of the mediated MR analyses indicate that potassium may reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease by influencing the expression of the plasma proteins BDH2 and C1R. Vitamin B12 may increase the risk of coronary atherosclerosis and cardiovascular death by reducing the levels of VPS29 and PSME1 proteins, while vitamin C may mitigate the risk of cardiac arrest by inhibiting the expression of the TPST2 protein. In addition, potassium can reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease by lowering 4-methoxyphenyl sulfate levels. None of the instrumental variables exhibited pleiotropy in the MR analysis. A sensitivity analysis using the leave-one-out method further confirmed the robustness of our findings. LDSC results indicated a genetic correlation between multiple trace elements and various cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion

This study uncovered the true causal relationship between trace elements and cardiovascular disease risk using genetic methods, and revealed the significant mediating role of specific plasma proteins and metabolites in this relationship.

Designing small-molecule and macromolecule sensors for imaging redox-active transition metal signaling

Transition metals play essential roles in biology, where these nutrients regulate protein activity as active site cofactors or via metalloallostery. In contrast, dysregulation of transition metal homeostasis can lead to unique metal-dependent signaling pathways connected to aging and disease, such as cuproptosis and ferroptosis for copper- and iron-dependent cell death or cuproplasia and ferroplasia for copper- and iron-dependent cell growth and proliferation, respectively. New methods that enable detection of bioavailable transition metal pools with both metal and oxidation state specificity can help decipher their contributions to health and disease. Here we summarize recent advances in designing sensors for imaging transition metals and their applications to uncover new metal biology.

[Iron deficiency in cardiovascular disease]

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency is worldwide the most frequently occurring deficiency of a trace element. Meanwhile, the indications are increasing that iron deficiency plays a relevant role in many cardiovascular diseases and that treatment is accessible with intravenous administration of iron.

OBJECTIVE AND METHODS

The aim of this article is to elucidate the clinical comorbidities, diagnostic dilemmas and treatment possibilities of iron deficiency in cardiovascular diseases. The study situation on iron deficiency and iron substitution in heart failure, aortic valve stenosis, atrial fibrillation and pulmonary hypertension (PH) is summarized.

RESULTS

The diagnostic criteria of iron deficiency in cardiovascular diseases are not finally decided. The guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology recommend either ferritin below 100 ng/ml alone or ferritin between 100 and 299 ng/ml with a transferrin saturation (TSAT) < 20 %. Some authors consider the determination of TSAT as sufficient as the only diagnostic criterion for iron deficiency in heart failure. Most studies on iron substitution in heart failure showed an improvement in the physical capacity and a reduction of the probability of a heart failure-related hospitalization by the substitution of an existing iron deficiency; however, it has been determined that a relevant proportion of patients show no response to iron substitution and that the cause for this is ultimately unclear. Whether the diagnostic criteria for iron deficiency in heart failure can be transferred to other cardiovascular symptoms, cannot be clearly answered due to the lack of data from prospective interventional studies.

CONCLUSION

The substitution of iron deficiency is one of very few possibilities to improve the physical capability in heart failure. The pivotal point of the discussion on iron deficiency and substitution in cardiovascular diseases is the correct identification of patients who benefit from treatment.

Both low and high body iron stores relate to metabolic syndrome in postmenopausal women: Findings from the VIKING Health Study-Shetland (VIKING I)

BACKGROUND

There are conflicting results among studies on the association between serum ferritin (SF) and metabolic syndrome (MetS), and by groups of sex/menopausal status. To date, there are no studies on British populations. The SF-MetS association might be U/J-shaped. We evaluated whether SF was independently associated with MetS (harmonized definition) in people from Shetland, Scotland.

METHODS

We analysed cross-sectional data from the Viking Health Study-Shetland (589 premenopausal women [PreMW], 625 postmenopausal women [PostW] and 832 men). Logistic regressions using two approaches, one with the lowest sex and menopausal status-specific ferritin quartile (Q) as the reference and other using the middle two quartiles combined (2-3) as the reference, were conducted to estimate the SF-MetS association. The shape of the association was verified via cubic spline analyses. The associations were adjusted for age, inflammatory and hepatic injury markers, alcohol intake, smoking and BMI.

RESULTS

Prevalence of MetS was 18.3%. Among PostMW both low and high SF were associated with MetS (fully adjusted odds ratios [95% confidence interval] compared to the middle two quartiles combined were: 1.99 [1.17-3.38] p =.011 for Q1 and 2.10 [1.27-3.49] p =.004 for Q4) This U-shaped pattern was confirmed in the cubic spline analysis in PostMW with a ferritin range of 15-200 ug/L. In men, a positive association between ferritin quartiles with Q1 as the reference, did not remain significant after adjustment for BMI.

CONCLUSION

Extreme quartiles of iron status were positively associated with MetS in PostMW, while no SF-MetS associations were found in men or PreMW. The ferritin-MetS association pattern differs between populations and U/J-shaped associations may exist.

Identification of iron metabolism-related genes in coronary heart disease and construction of a diagnostic model

Background

Coronary heart disease is a common cardiovascular disease, yferroptosiset its relationship with iron metabolism remains unclear.

Methods

Gene expression data from peripheral blood samples of patients with coronary heart disease and a healthy control group were utilized for a comprehensive analysis that included differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis, gene enrichment analysis, and the development of a logistic regression model to investigate the associations and differences between the groups. Additionally, the CIBERSORT algorithm was employed to examine the composition of immune cell types within the samples.

Results

Eight central genes were identified as being both differentially expressed and related to iron metabolism. These central genes are mainly involved in the cellular stress response. A logistic regression model based on the central genes achieved an AUC of 0.64-0.65 in the diagnosis of coronary heart disease. A higher proportion of M0 macrophages was found in patients with coronary heart disease, while a higher proportion of CD8T cells was observed in the normal control group.

Conclusion

The study identified important genes related to iron metabolism in the pathogenesis of coronary heart disease and constructed a robust diagnostic model. The results suggest that iron metabolism and immune cells may play a significant role in the development of coronary heart disease, providing a basis for further research.

Associations of dietary total, heme, non-heme iron intake with diabetes, CVD, and all-cause mortality in men and women with diabetes

Background

Iron metabolism disorders significantly increase the risk of diabetes and its related complications by inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, insulin resistance, and disturbances in glucose and lipid metabolism. However, whether dietary iron intake can influence progression of diabetes remains unclear. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between total iron, heme iron, and non-heme iron intake and diabetes, CVD, and all-cause mortality among men and women with diabetes in the U.S. population.

Methods

A total of 4416 adults with diabetes(2415 men and 2001 women) from the NHANES 2003-2014 were enrolled. Dietary information was collected by 24-h dietary recall during two nonconsecutive days. Dietary total iron intake was measured based on the dietary survey. Dietary heme iron intake was calculated based on its proportion in dietary total iron intake from each food. non-heme iron is the difference between total iron and heme iron. Diabetes, CVD, and all-cause mortality status were identified as main outcomes. Cox models and RCS analysis were performed to estimate the hazard ratios and 95%CIs.

Results

For men, the participants with a higher dietary heme iron intake were associated with higher risks of CVD (HRheme iron = 1.61,95%CI:1.03-2.51) and all-cause mortality (HRheme iron = 1.42,95%CI:1.10-1.83). For women, participants in the highest quartile of dietary total/heme/non-heme iron intake had a higher diabetes mortality risk ((HRtotal iron = 2.33,95%CI:1.24-4.38; HRheme iron = 1.87,95%CI:1.00-3.49; HRnon-heme iron = 2.28,95%CI:1.19-4.39), compared to those in the lowest quartile. Additionally, the dose-response curve for the relationship between dietary non-heme iron intake and CVD mortality followed a reverse J-shape in women with diabetes.

Conclusions

Higher dietary heme iron intake was associated with an increased CVD mortality risk in both men and women with diabetes. Additionally, higher dietary total, heme, and non-heme iron intake was linked to an increased risk of diabetes mortality among women with diabetes. Therefore, women with diabetes should pay more attention on the overconsumption of any type of dietary iron.

Iron Overload and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a chronic vascular degenerative disease characterized by progressive segmental dilation of the abdominal aorta. The rupture of an AAA represents a leading cause of death in cardiovascular diseases. Despite numerous experimental and clinical studies examining potential drug targets and therapies, currently there are no pharmaceutical treatment to prevent AAA growth and rupture. Iron is an essential element in almost all living organisms and has important biological functions. Epidemiological studies have indicated that both iron deficiency and overload are associated with adverse clinical outcomes, particularly an increased risk of cardiovascular events. Recent evidence indicates that iron overload is involved in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysms. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of iron overload in AAA progression and explore its potential pathological mechanisms. Although the exact molecular mechanisms of iron overload in the development of AAA remain to be elucidated, the inhibition of iron deposition may offer a promising strategy for preventing these aneurysms.

Iron metabolism indexes as predictors of the incidence of cardiac surgery-associated acute kidney surgery

BACKGROUND

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a major complication following cardiac surgery. We explored the clinical utility of iron metabolism indexes for identification of patients at risk for AKI after cardiac surgery.

METHODS

This prospective observational study included patients who underwent cardiac surgery between March 2023 and June 2023. Iron metabolism indexes were measured upon admission to the intensive care unit. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the relationship between iron metabolism indexes and cardiac surgery-associated AKI (CSA-AKI). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the predictive ability of iron, APACHE II score and the combination of the two indicators. Restricted cubic splines (RCS) was used to further confirm the linear relationship between iron and CSA-AKI.

RESULTS

Among the 112 recruited patients, 38 (33.9%) were diagnosed with AKI. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that APACHE II score (odds ratio [OR], 1.208; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.003-1.455, P = 0.036) and iron (OR 1.069; 95% CI 1.009-1.133, P = 0.036) could be used as independent risk factors to predict CSA-AKI. ROC curve analysis showed that iron (area under curve [AUC] = 0.669, 95% CI 0.572-0.757), APACHE II score (AUC = 0.655, 95% CI 0.557-0.744) and iron and APACHE II score combination (AUC = 0.726, 95% CI 0.632-0.807) were predictive indicators for CSA-AKI. RCS further confirmed the linear relationship between iron and CSA-AKI.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated iron levels were independently associated with higher risk of CSA-AKI, and there was a linear relationship between iron and CSA-AKI.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment

The aetiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is heterogenous and overlaps with that of several comorbidities like atrial fibrillation, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, valvular heart disease, iron deficiency, or sarcopenia. The diagnosis of HFpEF involves evaluating cardiac dysfunction through imaging techniques and assessing increased left ventricular filling pressure, which can be measured directly or estimated through various proxies including natriuretic peptides. To better narrow down the differential diagnosis of HFpEF, European and American heart failure guidelines advocate the use of different algorithms including comorbidities that require diagnosis and rigorous treatment during the evaluation process. Therapeutic recommendations differ between guidelines. Whilst sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors have a solid evidence base, the recommendations differ with regard to the use of inhibitors of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis. Unless indicated for specific comorbidities, the use of beta-blockers should be discouraged in HFpEF. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of the current state of the art in HFpEF diagnosis, clinical evaluation, and treatment.

Cardiovascular Implications of Sleep Disorders Beyond Sleep Apnea

Purpose of Review

Sleep is crucial for human health and life. There is still limited attention to the association between sleep disorders beyond sleep apnea and cardiovascular (CV) health. We investigated the current evidence between non-respiratory sleep disorders and CV health.

Recent Findings

Current evidence suggests an important association between sleep duration, circadian rhythm, insomnia, disorders of hypersomnolence and CV health. Sleep-related movement disorders exhibit a moderate association with CV health. Further research is needed to explore the effects of each sleep disorder on CV health.

Summary

Given the close association between non-respiratory sleep disorders and CV health, it is crucial to recognize and address sleep disorders in patients with a high CV risk.

Dietary iron intake predicts all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with diabetes

BACKGROUND

Limited data exists on the link between dietary iron intake and mortality in diabetes. Our investigation aimed to explore how dietary iron intake correlates with overall and cause-specific mortality in diabetic individuals.

METHODS

This analysis encompassed 5970 participants with diabetes from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning 1999 to 2014. Baseline data were collected through surveys and examinations, with mortality status tracked via National Death Index records until December 31, 2015. Cox proportional hazard models were utilized to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for mortality from various causes, including cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer.

RESULTS

The average iron intake among the cohort was 14.1 ± 7.4 mg daily, with an average participant age of 61.3 and 3059 (51.3%) male adults. Over 41,425 person-years of follow-up, 1497 deaths were recorded. Following adjustments for multiple variables, an iron intake between 11.1 and 14.4 mg was associated with the lowest risk of all-cause mortality (HR 0.83 [0.70, 0.99], P < 0.05) compared to the reference group (<8.3 mg). Analysis of dose-response curves revealed an L-shaped pattern in men and a J-shaped pattern in women concerning the relationship between iron intake and all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest a nonlinear association between dietary iron intake and all-cause mortality in individuals with diabetes. Specifically, higher iron intake may increase all-cause mortality risk in men, while potentially exert a protective effect in women.

Associations of iron metabolism and inflammation with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in a large NHANES community sample: Moderating and mediating effects

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

This study aimed to assess the associations between serum iron concentration, C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration and the risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality in the general population and to explore potential mediating and moderating effects.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey spanning the years 1999-2010, encompassing 23,634 participants. Cox proportional hazards regression models were employed to investigate the independent associations of serum iron and CRP with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Moderation and mediation analyses explored the moderating effect of CRP on the association between the serum iron concentration and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, and the mediating role of the serum iron concentration in the association between the CRP concentration and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. After multivariate adjustments in the Cox model, serum iron and CRP levels were independently correlated with both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality risk. Moderation analyses revealed a more pronounced correlation between the serum iron concentration and both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in participants with higher CRP levels. Mediation analysis indicated that the serum iron concentration partly mediated the impact of CRP on the risk of all-cause mortality (13.79%) and cardiovascular mortality (24.12%).

CONCLUSION

Serum iron and CRP are independently associated with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Moreover, the associations between serum iron concentrations and both all-cause and cardiovascular mortality are more pronounced in individuals with elevated CRP. Serum iron partially mediates the effect of CRP on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality.

Iron deficiency, anemia, and patient-reported outcomes in kidney transplant recipients

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) experience more fatigue, anxiety, and depressive symptoms and lower concentration and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) compared with the general population. Anemia is a potential cause that is well-recognized and treated. Iron deficiency, however, is often unrecognized, despite its potential detrimental effects related to and unrelated to anemia. We investigated the interplay of anemia, iron deficiency, and patient-reported outcomes in 814 outpatient KTRs (62% male, age 56 ± 13 years) enrolled in the TransplantLines Biobank and Cohort Study (Groningen, The Netherlands). In total, 28% had iron deficiency (ie, transferrin saturation < 20% and ferritin < 100 μg/L), and 29% had anemia (World Health Organization criteria). In linear regression analyses, iron deficiency, but not anemia, was associated with more fatigue, worse concentration, lower wellbeing, more anxiety, more depressive symptoms, and lower HRQoL, independent of age, sex, estimated glomerular filtration rate, anemia, and other potential confounders. In the fully adjusted logistic regression models, iron deficiency was associated with an estimated 53% higher risk of severe fatigue, a 100% higher risk of major depressive symptoms, and a 51% higher chance of being at risk for sick leave/work disability. Clinical trials are needed to investigate the effect of iron deficiency correction on patient-reported outcomes and HRQoL in KTRs.

A tandem activity-based sensing and labeling strategy reveals antioxidant response element regulation of labile iron pools

Iron is an essential element for life owing to its ability to participate in a diverse array of oxidation-reduction reactions. However, misregulation of iron-dependent redox cycling can also produce oxidative stress, contributing to cell growth, proliferation, and death pathways underlying aging, cancer, neurodegeneration, and metabolic diseases. Fluorescent probes that selectively monitor loosely bound Fe(II) ions, termed the labile iron pool, are potentially powerful tools for studies of this metal nutrient; however, the dynamic spatiotemporal nature and potent fluorescence quenching capacity of these bioavailable metal stores pose challenges for their detection. Here, we report a tandem activity-based sensing and labeling strategy that enables imaging of labile iron pools in live cells through enhancement in cellular retention. Iron green-1 fluoromethyl (IG1-FM) reacts selectively with Fe(II) using an endoperoxide trigger to release a quinone methide dye for subsequent attachment to proximal biological nucleophiles, providing a permanent fluorescent stain at sites of elevated labile iron. IG1-FM imaging reveals that degradation of the major iron storage protein ferritin through ferritinophagy expands the labile iron pool, while activation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) antioxidant response elements (AREs) depletes it. We further show that lung cancer cells with heightened NRF2 activation, and thus lower basal labile iron, have reduced viability when treated with an iron chelator. By connecting labile iron pools and NRF2-ARE activity to a druggable metal-dependent vulnerability in cancer, this work provides a starting point for broader investigations into the roles of transition metal and antioxidant signaling pathways in health and disease.

Associations Between Nonanemic Iron Deficiency and Postoperative Outcomes in Cardiac Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Preoperative screening for iron deficiency is a part of patient blood management protocols. This systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression reviews the association between nonanemic iron deficiency and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. We aimed to determine whether preoperative screening for nonanemic iron deficiency should be recommended in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Electronic databases MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), and Scopus were searched from inception until December 9, 2022. Studies were considered for inclusion if they (1) used an observational study design; (2) enrolled adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery; and (3) included an iron-deficient and iron-replete group, defined using serum ferritin and/or transferrin saturation. The primary outcome was the length of acute hospital stay. Secondary outcomes included length of intensive care unit stay, requirement for allogeneic red blood cell transfusion, number of red blood cell units transfused, days alive and at home at postoperative days 30 and 90, all-cause postoperative complications, postoperative infection, mortality, and hospital readmission. Meta-regression was performed to assess the effects of study and patient-level factors on the associations between nonanemic iron deficiency and specific outcomes. Individual study quality was assessed using the Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Exposures (ROBINS-E) tool. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) framework was used to determine the quality of evidence for each outcome.

RESULTS

Eight studies (2683 patients) were included. No significant association was observed between nonanemic iron deficiency and any of the primary or secondary outcomes except for an increased requirement for allogeneic red blood cell transfusion (odds ratio [OR], 1.39 [95% confidence interval, CI, 1.16-1.68; P < .001; I2 2.8%]). Meta-regression did not identify any potential sources of heterogeneity to explain variation in individual study results. The quality of evidence was rated as "low" or "very low" for all outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Few high-quality studies are available to assess associations between nonanemic iron deficiency and outcomes after cardiac surgery. Acknowledging these limitations, the presence of preoperative nonanemic iron deficiency was not associated with a change in the primary outcome of length of hospital stay, or any patient-centered secondary outcome compared to those without iron deficiency. There was an association with increased requirement for allogeneic red blood cell transfusion, but this did not impact the reported patient-centered outcomes.

Prognostic Significance of Serum Uric Acid and Exercise Capacity in Older Adults Hospitalized for Worsening Cardiovascular Disease

Elevated serum uric acid (sUA) is associated with the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Here, we examined the prognostic significance of sUA and exercise capacity in 411 Japanese adults (age, ≥65; mean, 81 years) hospitalized for worsening CVD. When the patients were stratified by sUA into three groups (<5.3, 5.4-6.9, >7.0 mg/dL), the high-sUA group had a significantly worse peak VO2 and composite endpoint (rehospitalization due to worsening CVD and all-cause mortality) compared with low- and moderate-sUA groups (p < 0.001). When the patients were stratified by sUA into five groups (sUA < 3.9, 4.0-5.9, 6.0-7.9, 8.0-8.9, and >10.0 mg/dL), the incidence of the composite endpoint was significantly higher in the highest sUA group compared with that in the reference group, but only in women. Univariate Cox regression analysis, but not a multivariate analysis, indicated that sUA was significantly associated with the composite endpoint. Although sUA and exercise capacity may have some degree of prognostic significance in older patients with CVD, this significance may differ between men and women.

Intravenous iron for acute and chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) patients with iron deficiency: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis

Patients with heart failure (HF) and iron deficiency are at increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes. We searched databases for randomised controlled trials that compared IV iron to placebo, in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). A total of 7,813 participants, all having HFrEF with 3,998 receiving IV iron therapy, and 3,815 control recipients were included. There was a significant improvement in Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire favouring IV iron with MD 7.39, 95% CI [3.55, 11.22], p = 0.0002. Subgroup analysis, based on acute and chronic HF, has displayed a sustained statistical significance. Additionally, a significant increase in the left ventricular ejection fraction % was observed, with MD 3.76, 95% CI [2.32, 5.21], p < 0.00001. A significant improvement in 6-min walk test was noted, with MD 34.87, 95% CI [20.02, 49.72], p < 0.00001. Furthermore, IV iron showed significant improvement in NYHA class, peak VO2, serum ferritin, and haemoglobin levels. Finally, despite the lack of difference in terms of all-cause hospitalisation and HF-related death, IV iron was associated with a significant reduction in HF-related, any cardiovascular reason hospitalisations, and all-cause death; which supports the need for implementation of IV iron as a standard of care in patients with HF and iron deficiency.

Iron Metabolic Biomarkers and the Mortality Risk in the General Population: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study

Context

Iron is an essential element in the human body and plays a critical role in many physiological and cellular processes. However, the association between iron status and the risk of all-cause or cause-specific mortality has not been well-investigated. And it is unclear whether the association between iron metabolic biomarkers and the risk of mortality differs between people with and without diabetes mellitus (DM).

Objective

This work aimed to investigate associations between iron metabolic biomarkers and all-cause and cause-specific mortality risk in the general population, and heterogeneities in the associations among population with and without DM..

Methods

A total of 29 166 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) III and NHANES 1999 to 2010 were included, with linkage to the National Death Index to December 31, 2019. Cox proportional-hazard models and Fine-Gray subdistribution hazard models were used to estimate associations between iron metabolic biomarkers and outcomes.

Results

During a median follow-up of 18.83 years, 9378 deaths were observed, including 3420 cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths and 1969 cancer deaths. A significant linear association between serum ferritin (SF) and all-cause mortality was observed among the overall population and those without DM. J-shaped associations between transferrin saturation (TSAT) and all-cause and CVD mortality were observed among all populations. In the overall population, compared to the first quartile (Q1) group, the adjusted hazard ratio (HR) (95% CI) for all-cause mortality was 1.07 (1.00-1.15), 1.05 (0.98-1.12), 1.13 (1.05-1.21) in Q2, Q3, and Q4 groups for SF, while the HR was 0.94 (0.88-0.99), 0.92 (0.86-0.97), and 0.93 (0.88-0.99) for TSAT. In individuals without DM, the adjusted HR of the Q4 of SF were 1.19 (1.03-1.37) for CVD mortality and 1.25 (1.05-1.48) for cancer mortality. In individuals with DM, the adjusted HRs of the Q4 of TSAT were 0.76 (0.62-0.93) for CVD mortality and 1.47 (1.07-2.03) for cancer mortality.

Conclusion

Iron metabolism abnormalities increase mortality risk in the general population. The associations of iron status with mortality were significantly different between individuals with and without DM, which indicated tailored strategies for iron homeostasis are needed.

Determinants of iron-rich food deficiency among children under 5 years in sub-Saharan Africa: a comprehensive analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys

BACKGROUND

Iron deficiency is a major public health problem that affects the physical and cognitive development of children under 5 years of age (under-5 children) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). However, the factors associated with the limited consumption of iron-rich foods in the region are poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the prevalence and determinants of iron-rich food deficiency among under-5 children in 26 SSA countries.

DESIGN

This nationally representative quantitative study employed pooled data from Demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 2010 and 2019.

METHODS

Representative samples comprising 296 850 under-5 children from the various countries were used. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to determine the associations between the lack of iron-rich food uptake and various sociodemographic factors.

RESULT

The overall prevalence of iron-rich food deficiency among the children in the entire sample was 56.75%. The prevalence of iron-rich food deficiency varied widely across the 26 countries, ranging from 42.76% in Congo Democratic Republic to 77.50% in Guinea. Maternal education, particularly primary education (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.68) and higher education (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.64), demonstrated a reduced likelihood of iron-rich food deficiency in the sample. Likewise, paternal education, with both primary education (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.75) and higher education (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.73) showed decreased odds of iron-rich food deficiency. Postnatal visits contributed significantly to reducing the odds of iron-rich food deficiency (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.83 to 0.95), along with antenatal visits, which also had a positive impact (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74 to 0.95). Finally, residents in rural areas showed slightly higher odds of iron-rich food deficiency (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.28).

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings, interventions targeting iron-food deficiency in the SSA region should take into strong consideration the key determinants highlighted in this study.

Benefits of intravenous iron supplementation in heart failure

Introduction: Iron deficiency (ID) is one of the most frequent comorbidities in patients with heart failure (HF) and is estimated to be present in up to 80% of acute patients regardless of their ejection fraction. Randomized controlled trials have shown that supplementary intravenous iron results in improved clinical outcomes; however, the current understanding of the effects of intravenous iron on morbidity and mortality remains limited. Study and results: The meta-analysis pooled individual participant data from three randomized placebo-controlled trials of ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) in adult patients (n = 4,501) with heart failure and iron deficiency (CONFIRM-HF, AFFIRM-AHF, and HEART-FID). FCM therapy significantly reduced the co-primary composite endpoint of total cardiovascular hospitalizations and cardiovascular death, with a rate ratio (RR 0.86; 95% CI 0.75 to 0.98; p = 0.029). FCM therapy was associated with a 17% relative rate reduction in total cardiovascular hospitalizations (RR 0.83; 95% CI 0.73 to 0.96; p = 0.009) and a 16% relative rate reduction in total heart failure hospitalizations (RR 0.84; 95% CI 0.71 to 0.98; p = 0.025). Lessons learned: The meta-analysis shows that in iron-deficient patients with heart failure and reduced or mildly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, intravenous ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) is associated with a reduced risk of total cardiovascular hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality. These findings indicate that intravenous FCM should be considered in iron-deficient patients with heart failure and reduced or mildly reduced ejection fractions.

Cardiac regeneration: Pre-existing cardiomyocyte as the hub of novel signaling pathway

In the mammalian heart, cardiomyocytes are forced to withdraw from the cell cycle shortly after birth, limiting the ability of the heart to regenerate and repair. The development of multimodal regulation of cardiac proliferation has verified that pre-existing cardiomyocyte proliferation is an essential driver of cardiac renewal. With the continuous development of genetic lineage tracking technology, it has been revealed that cell cycle activity produces polyploid cardiomyocytes during the embryonic, juvenile, and adult stages of cardiogenesis, but newly formed mononucleated diploid cardiomyocytes also elevated sporadically during myocardial infarction. It implied that adult cardiomyocytes have a weak regenerative capacity under the condition of ischemia injury, which offers hope for the clinical treatment of myocardial infarction. However, the regeneration frequency and source of cardiomyocytes are still low, and the mechanism of regulating cardiomyocyte proliferation remains further explained. It is noteworthy to explore what force triggers endogenous cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart regeneration. Here, we focused on summarizing the recent research progress of emerging endogenous key modulators and crosstalk with other signaling pathways and furnished valuable insights into the internal mechanism of heart regeneration. In addition, myocardial transcription factors, non-coding RNAs, cyclins, and cell cycle-dependent kinases are involved in the multimodal regulation of pre-existing cardiomyocyte proliferation. Ultimately, awakening the myocardial proliferation endogenous modulator and regeneration pathways may be the final battlefield for the regenerative therapy of cardiovascular diseases.

Iron Deficiency: A Silent Threat in Patients With Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction

Background Iron deficiency is a prevalent and clinically significant comorbidity in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Despite its high prevalence, its impact on clinical outcomes, mortality, and various physiological parameters remains a subject of ongoing investigation. The findings of this study are anticipated to contribute valuable insights into the management and prognosis of patients with HFrEF, potentially informing future interventions and improving patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess the clinical profile of iron deficiency and its implications on morbidity and mortality in patients with HFrEF. Methodology A prospective cohort study was conducted at King Edward Memorial Hospital, India, involving 371 patients with HFrEF. Participants underwent comprehensive clinical and laboratory assessments, evaluating iron deficiency with signs, symptoms, comorbidities, dyspnea, elevated jugular venous pressure (JVP), past medical history, and various hematological and biochemical parameters. Results Overall, 50% of HFrEF participants were iron deficient (n = 185), of whom 80% (n = 148) had anemia against 43% (n = 81) anemics in iron repletes (n = 186). Of the 185 iron-deficient patients, 44 (11.86%) had absolute iron deficiency and 141 (38%) had functional iron deficiency. Iron deficiency significantly correlated with increased mortality in HFrEF patients (χ2 (1, N = 371) = 3.88, p = 0.048). A large positive correlation was observed between absolute iron deficiency and dyspnea severity (r2 = 0.949, p = 0.026). Statistically significant differences were found in hemoglobin (anemia), serum iron, serum ferritin, total iron-binding capacity, and transferrin saturation between iron-deficient and iron-replete patients (p < 0.05). However, no statistically significant difference in left ventricular ejection fraction between iron-deficient and replete patients was noted. Conclusions Iron deficiency emerges as more than a mere comorbidity in heart failure, becoming a prognostic factor with multifaceted outcomes. Its impact extends beyond cardiovascular consequences, encompassing adverse manifestations such as anemia, ascites, edema, dyspnea, elevated JVP, and a heightened risk of mortality. This intricate interplay positions iron deficiency as a critical determinant, significantly influencing the clinical trajectory and outcomes for patients with HFrEF.

Novel Bis-pyrazoline Fluorescent Probe for Cu2+ and Fe3+ Detection and Application in Cell Imaging

A fluorescent probe Y((1,1'-([1,1'-biphenyl]-4,4'-diylbis(3-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1H-pyrazole-5,1-diyl)) bis(ethan-1-one))) was designed and synthesized, which could be used to Cu2+ and Fe3+ sensors. Through the study of optical properties, the probe Y shows good selectivity and sensitivity to Cu2+ and Fe3+ in aqueous tetrahydrofuran solution [10.0 mM HEPES, pH 7.4, THF-H2O = 9:1(v/v)] with has excellent anti-interference performance, and its detection limits were 0.931 uΜ for Cu2+ and 0.401uΜ for Fe3+. The coordination mechanism of probe Y with Cu2+ and Fe3+ was speculated and verified at DFT level and HRNM. By Hela cytotoxicity and imaging tests, probe Y not only has good biocompatibility, but also can be used for sensing Cu2+ in cells.

Marginated aberrant red blood cells induce pathologic vascular stress fluctuations in a computational model of hematologic disorders

Red blood cell (RBC) disorders such as sickle cell disease affect billions worldwide. While much attention focuses on altered properties of aberrant RBCs and corresponding hemodynamic changes, RBC disorders are also associated with vascular dysfunction, whose origin remains unclear and which provoke severe consequences including stroke. Little research has explored whether biophysical alterations of RBCs affect vascular function. We use a detailed computational model of blood that enables characterization of cell distributions and vascular stresses in blood disorders and compare simulation results with experimental observations. Aberrant RBCs, with their smaller size and higher stiffness, concentrate near vessel walls (marginate) because of contrasts in physical properties relative to normal cells. In a curved channel exemplifying the geometric complexity of the microcirculation, these cells distribute heterogeneously, indicating the importance of geometry. Marginated cells generate large transient stress fluctuations on vessel walls, indicating a mechanism for the observed vascular inflammation.

Association between latent profile of dietary intake and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs): Results from Fasa Adults Cohort Study (FACS)

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have been among the most significant non-communicable diseases. Dietary risks account for the most cause of CVDs mortalities. Evaluating overall dietary patterns (through the Latent profile of dietary intake) can provide a more accurate prediction regarding the prevalence of CVDs. The present cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between the latent profile of dietary intake and CVDs prevalence. The population of the Fasa Adults Cohort Study was employed to gather the data (n = 8319). A modified FFQ was employed to assess eating behaviors. Minerals, as well as the energy intake and total fiber, were measured using Nutritionist IV software (version 7.0). To estimate the prevalence of CVDs, accurate records of patients' histories were made. Individuals were clustered according to their dietary intake using latent profile analysis. The mean age was 48.75 ± 9.59 years, and 53.28% (4430) were women. 63.9% of participants with low Socioeconomic Status (SES) were in the low-intake profile (P < 0.001), and high SES increases the odds of being in the high-intake profile (ORhigh/low = 2.87, 95% CI 2.55-3.24). The low-intake group had the lowest amount of physical activity (Met) (P < 0.001). The result of multivariate logistic regression revealed that categorized in the low-intake group significantly increased the development of CVDs (OR = 1.32, 95% CI 1.07-1.63, P = 0.010). The mean micronutrients and total fiber, in individuals with a low intake profile, were significantly lower than other groups (P < 0.001). Overall, we estimated that a low intake of all food groups increases the odds of developing CVDs significantly.

Improving the Outcome of Patients With Heart Failure: Assessment of Iron Deficiency and Intravenous Iron Replacement

Background Iron deficiency (ID) has been shown to be a significant co-morbidity in patients with heart failure (HF), independent of their anaemia status. Correction of ID has been shown to improve quality of life, recurrent heart failure hospitalizations and morbidity. A quality improvement project was designed to improve the assessment and treatment of iron deficiency in HF patients in our tertiary care centre. Methods and results An initial baseline dataset was collected, followed by two cycles of interventions to help improve the care of HF patients admitted to our hospital over a two-month period. The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle approach was applied, with the first intervention involving raising awareness of the importance and need to assess the iron status of HF patients through education provided to doctors, nurses and patients. Furthermore, information leaflets were produced and disseminated across the medical wards and through social media forums. The post-intervention datasets were collected and compared to the baseline outcomes. Baseline data showed that only four (20%) of heart failure patients had their iron status checked. Following the interventions, screening for ID increased to 80% (16), of which 85% (11) of those who identified as iron deficient received intravenous iron replacement. Conclusion The project was successful in improving the practice of screening for iron deficiency and intravenous replacement of iron in patients with HF.

Interactive Effects of Obesity and Hypertension on Patterns of Hair Essential Trace Element and Mineral Content in Adult Women

The objective of the present study was to evaluate potential similar patterns and interactive effects of obesity and hypertension on hair essential trace element and mineral content in adult women. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 607 adult women divided into controls (n = 101), groups with obesity without hypertension (n = 199), hypertension without obesity (n = 143), and both obesity and hypertension (n = 164) were included in the study. Assessment of hair mineral and trace element levels was performed by inductively-coupled plasma mass-spectrometry. Hair Ca, Mg, Co, and Mn levels in women with obesity, hypertension, and both diseases were significantly lower, compared to controls. Hair Mg levels in women with obesity and hypertension were significantly lower, whereas hair Na and K were found to be higher when compared to other groups. Hair Fe and V content in obese patients was lower than in other groups. Obesity was associated with lower hair Cu levels, whereas patients with hypertension had higher hair Cu content. Hypertension was also associated with higher hair Cr and Se content irrespective of body weight. Hair Zn levels in obese women with and without hypertension were significantly lower than those in healthy controls and normal-weight women with hypertension. In multiple regression models hair Mg was considered as a significant negative predictor of both systolic and diastolic blood pressure values. The observed alterations in hair trace element and mineral content provide an additional link between obesity and hypertension, although further detailed studies are required.

An Alternative Mechanism of Subcellular Iron Uptake Deficiency in Cardiomyocytes

BACKGROUND

Systemic defects in intestinal iron absorption, circulation, and retention cause iron deficiency in 50% of patients with heart failure. Defective subcellular iron uptake mechanisms that are independent of systemic absorption are incompletely understood. The main intracellular route for iron uptake in cardiomyocytes is clathrin-mediated endocytosis.

METHODS

We investigated subcellular iron uptake mechanisms in patient-derived and CRISPR/Cas-edited induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes as well as patient-derived heart tissue. We used an integrated platform of DIA-MA (mass spectrometry data-independent acquisition)-based proteomics and signaling pathway interrogation. We employed a genetic induced pluripotent stem cell model of 2 inherited mutations (TnT [troponin T]-R141W and TPM1 [tropomyosin 1]-L185F) that lead to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a frequent cause of heart failure, to study the underlying molecular dysfunctions of DCM mutations.

RESULTS

We identified a druggable molecular pathomechanism of impaired subcellular iron deficiency that is independent of systemic iron metabolism. Clathrin-mediated endocytosis defects as well as impaired endosome distribution and cargo transfer were identified as a basis for subcellular iron deficiency in DCM-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes. The clathrin-mediated endocytosis defects were also confirmed in the hearts of patients with DCM with end-stage heart failure. Correction of the TPM1-L185F mutation in DCM patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells, treatment with a peptide, Rho activator II, or iron supplementation rescued the molecular disease pathway and recovered contractility. Phenocopying the effects of the TPM1-L185F mutation into WT induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes could be ameliorated by iron supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that impaired endocytosis and cargo transport resulting in subcellular iron deficiency could be a relevant pathomechanism for patients with DCM carrying inherited mutations. Insight into this molecular mechanism may contribute to the development of treatment strategies and risk management in heart failure.

Efficacy and safety of intravenous iron repletion in patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

AFFIRM-AHF and IRONMAN demonstrated lower rates of the combined endpoint recurrent heart failure (HF) hospitalizations and cardiovascular death (CVD) using intravenous (IV) ferric carboxymaltose (FCM) and ferric derisomaltose (FDI), respectively in patients with HF and iron deficiency (ID) utilizing prespecified COVID-19 analyses.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We meta-analyzed efficacy, between trial heterogeneity and data robustness for the primary endpoint and CVD in AFFIRM-AHF and IRONMAN. As sensitivity analysis, we analyzed data from all eligible exploratory trials investigating FCM/FDI in HF.

RESULTS

FCM/FDI reduced the primary endpoint (RR = 0.81, 95% CI 0.69-0.95, p = 0.01, I2 = 0%), with the number needed to treat (NNT) being 7. Power was 73% and findings were robust with fragility index (FI) of 94 and fragility quotient (FQ) of 0.041. Effects of FCM/FDI were neutral concerning CVD (OR = 0.88, 95% CI 0.71-1.09, p = 0.24, I2 = 0%). Power was 21% while findings were fragile with reverse FI of 14 and reversed FQ of 0.006. The sensitivity analysis from all eligible trials (n = 3258) confirmed positive effects of FCM/FDI on the primary endpoint (RR = 0.77, 95% CI 0.66-0.90, p = 0.0008, I2 = 0%), with NNT being 6. Power was 91% while findings were robust (FI of 147 and FQ of 0.045). Effect on CVD was neutral (RR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.71-1.07, p = 0.18, I2 = 0%). Power was 10% while findings were fragile (reverse FI of 7 and reverse FQ of 0.002). Rate of infections (OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.71-1.02, p = 0.09, I2 = 0%), vascular disorder (OR = 0.84, 95% CI 0.57-1.25, p = 0.34, I2 = 0%) and general or injection-site related disorders (OR = 1.39, 95% CI 0.88-1.29, p = 0.16, I2 = 30%) were comparable between groups. There was no relevant heterogeneity (I2 > 50%) between the trials for any of the analyzed outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of FCM/FDI is safe and reduces the composite of recurrent HF hospitalizations and CVD, while effects on CVD alone are based on available level of data indeterminate. Findings concerning composite outcomes exhibit a high level of robustness without heterogeneity between trials with FCM and FDI.

Mendelian randomization study reveals a causal relationship between serum iron status and coronary heart disease and related cardiovascular diseases

Background

Growing observational studies have shown that abnormal systemic iron status is associated with Coronary heart disease (CHD). However, these results from observational studies was not entirely consistent.It remains unclear whether this relationship represents causality.It is necessary to explore the causal relationship between iron status and CHD and related cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Objective

We aimed to investigate the potential casual relationship between serum iron status and CHD and related CVD using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach.

Methods

Genetic statistics for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) between four iron status parameters were identified in a large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) conducted by the Iron Status Genetics organization. Three independent single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (rs1800562, rs1799945, and rs855791) aligned with four iron status biomarkers were used as instrumental variables. CHD and related CVD genetic statistics We used publicly available summary-level GWAS data. Five different MR methods random effects inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR Egger, weighted median, weighted mode, and Wald ratio were used to explore the causal relationship between serum iron status and CHD and related CVD.

Results

In the MR analysis, we found that the causal effect of serum iron (OR = 0.995, 95% CI = 0.992-0.998, p = 0.002) was negatively associated with the odds of coronary atherosclerosis (AS). Transferrin saturation (TS) (OR = 0.885, 95% CI = 0.797-0.982, p = 0.02) was negatively associated with the odds of Myocardial infarction (MI).

Conclusion

This MR analysis provides evidence for a causal relationship between whole-body iron status and CHD development. Our study suggests that a high iron status may be associated with a reduced risk of developing CHD.

Intravenous iron therapy among patients with heart failure and iron deficiency: An updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Background

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) evaluating the role of intravenous (IV) iron administration in patients with heart failure (HF) and iron deficiency (ID) have yielded inconsistent results.

Methods

Electronic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and OVID databases was performed until November 2022 for RCTs that evaluated the role of IV iron administration in patients with HF and ID. The main study outcomes were the composite of HF hospitalization or cardiovascular mortality, and individual outcome of HF hospitalization. Summary estimates were evaluated using random effects model.

Results

The final analysis included 12 RCTs with 3,492 patients (1,831 patients in the IV iron group and 1,661 patients in the control group). The mean follow-up was 8.3 months. IV iron was associated with a lower incidence in the composite of HF hospitalization or cardiovascular mortality (31.9% vs. 45.3%; relative risk [RR] 0.72; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59-0.88) and individual outcome of HF hospitalization (28.4% vs. 42.2; RR 0.69; 95% CI 0.57-0.85). There was no significant difference between both groups in cardiovascular mortality (RR 0.88; 95% CI 0.75-1.04) and all-cause mortality (RR 0.95; 95% CI 0.83-1.09). IV iron was associated with lower New York Heart Association class and higher left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). Meta-regression analyses showed no effect modification for the main outcomes based on age, hemoglobin level, ferritin level or LVEF.

Conclusion

Among patients with HF and ID, IV iron administration was associated with reduction in the composite of HF hospitalization or cardiovascular mortality and driven by a reduction in HF hospitalization.

The association between iron metabolism with the change of blood pressure and risk of hypertension: A large cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

The relationship between iron metabolism and variations in blood pressure and hypertension risk is still not clear. This study aimed to determine whether iron metabolism is associated with changes in blood pressure and hypertension prevalence in the general United States population.

METHODS

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NAHNES) database contains data on 116876 Americans from 1999 to 2020 years. Data from the NHANES database were used to examine the relationships between iron metabolism (serum iron [SI], serum ferritin [SF], and soluble transferrin receptor [sTfR]) and changes in blood pressure and hypertension prevalence. Generalized linear models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) plot curves were used to estimate the relationship between iron metabolism and hypertension. Further, generalized additive models with smooth functions were used to identify the relationship between iron metabolism and blood pressure. Finally, a stratified subgroup analysis was performed.

RESULTS

A total of 6710 participants were included in our analysis. The RCS plot showed a linear relationship between SI, as well as sTfR, and hypertension prevalence. SF and hypertension prevalence were associated in a J-shape. In addition, the relationship between SI and systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) decreased initially and then increased. A correlation between SF, SBP, and DBP first decreased, then increased, and finally decreased. A positive linear correlation existed between sTfR and SBP, but it increased and then decreased with DBP.

CONCLUSION

The correlation between SF and hypertension prevalence displayed a J-curve. In contrast, the correlation between SI, as well as sTfR, and hypertension risk was negative and positive, respectively.

Is red distribution width a valid tool to predict impaired iron transport in heart failure?

Background

Impaired iron transport (IIT) is a form of iron deficiency (ID) defined as transferrin saturation (TSAT) < 20% irrespective of serum ferritin levels. It is frequently observed in heart failure (HF) where it negatively affects prognosis irrespective of anaemia.

Objectives

In this retrospective study we searched for a surrogate biomarker of IIT.

Methods

We tested the predictive power of red distribution width (RDW), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) to detect IIT in 797 non-anaemic HF patients.

Results

At ROC analysis, RDW provided the best AUC (0.6928). An RDW cut-off value of 14.2% identified patients with IIT, with positive and negative predictive values of 48 and 80%, respectively. Comparison between the true and false negative groups showed that estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was significantly higher (p = 0.0092) in the true negative vs. false negative group. Therefore, we divided the study population according to eGFR value: 109 patients with eGFR ≥ 90 ml/min/1.73 m2, 318 patients with eGFR 60-89 ml/min/1.73 m2, 308 patients with eGFR 30-59 ml/min/1.73 m2 and 62 patients with eGFR < 30 ml/min/1.73 m2. In the first group, positive and negative predictive values were 48 and 81% respectively, 51 and 85% in the second group, 48 and 73% in the third group and 43 and 67% in the fourth group.

Conclusion

RDW may be seen as a reliable marker to exclude IIT in non-anaemic HF patients with eGFR ≥60 ml/min/1.73 m2.

Tissue iron distribution in patients with anemia of inflammation: Results of a pilot study

Anemia of inflammation (AI) is frequently present in subjects with inflammatory disorders, primarily caused by inflammation-driven iron retention in macrophages. So far, only limited data on qualitative and quantitative estimates of tissue iron retention in AI patients exist. We performed a prospective cohort study analyzing splenic, hepatic, pancreatic, and cardiac iron content with MRI-based R2*-relaxometry in AI patients, including subjects with concomitant true iron deficiency (AI+IDA) hospitalized between 05/2020-01/2022. Control groups were individuals without inflammation. Spleen R2* values in AI patients with ferritin ≤200 μg/L (AI+IDA) were comparable with those found in controls. In AI patients with ferritin >200 μg/L, spleen (47.6 s^-1 vs. 19.3 s^-1 , p < .001) and pancreatic R2* values (32.5 s^-1 vs. 24.9 s^-1 , p = .011) were significantly higher compared with controls, while liver and heart R2*-values did not differ. Higher spleen R2* values were associated with higher ferritin, hepcidin, CRP, and IL-6 concentrations. Spleen R2* values normalized in AI patients after recovery (23.6 s^-1 vs. 47.6 s^-1 , p = .008), while no changes were found in patients with baseline AI+IDA. This is the first study investigating tissue iron distribution in patients with inflammatory anemia and AI with concomitant true iron deficiency. The results support the findings in animal models demonstrating iron retention in macrophages, which are primarily accumulating in the spleen under inflammatory conditions. MRI-related iron measurement may help to better characterize actual iron needs and to define better biomarker thresholds in the diagnosis of true ID in patients with AI. It may qualify as a useful diagnostic method to estimate the need for iron supplementation and to guide therapy.

A colorimetric and fluorometric dual-mode carbon dots probe derived from phenanthroline precursor for the selective detection of Fe2+ and Fe3

Iron's metabolism is heavily involved in the regulation of redox balance for cell functions, however, the simultaneous monitoring of Fe^2+/3+ concentration is still a great challenge due to their transitional nature in biological systems. A novel type of carbon dots (CDs) was synthesized by solvothermal treatment with 5-amino-1,10-phenanthroline (Aphen) and salicylic acid as precursors, and the resulting targeted CDs (T-CDs) were used to simultaneously detect Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺. Comprehensive experimental characterizations revealed that the strong binding affinity of Aphen moiety to Fe²⁺ leads to the formation of rigid T-CDs aggregates, which causes a substantial enhancement of fluorescence intensity, whereas Fe³⁺ could cause the fluorescence quenching of T-CDs due to the oxidation-reduction induced electron transfer. These different fluorescence responses allow T-CDs to sensitively differentiate Fe²⁺ from Fe³⁺, and give the limit of detection (LOD) of 1.78 and 2.78 μM for Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺, respectively. Furthermore, the Aphen dominated structure endows the T-CDs with a colorimetric response to Fe²⁺ with a LOD of 0.13 μM, which is very different from Fe³⁺. Thus, the dynamic changes of Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ in solution can be accurately monitored by T-CDs within the total iron concentration of 50 μM, which is probably the most sensitive dual-mode probe reported so far. In addition, this probe is successfully applied to detect the Fe^2+/3+ concentration in cells, demonstrating a huge application potential in the sensing of the dynamic equilibrium of these important transition metals during the cell metabolism or stimulated process. The dynamic changes of Fe²⁺ and Fe³⁺ in solution can be accurately monitored by carbon dots based on the colorimetric and fluorometric dual-mode.

Extension Peptide of Plant Ferritin from Setaria italica Presents a Novel Fold

The extension peptide (EP) is the most distinctive feature of mature plant ferritin. Some EPs have exhibited serine-like protease activity, which is associated with iron uptake and release. EP forms a helix and a long loop, followed by a conserved core helical bundle. However, whether the EP adopts a stable or uniform folding pattern in all plants remains unclear. To clarify this, we investigated the crystal structure of ferritin-1 from Setaria italica (SiFer1), a type of monocotyledon. In our structure of SiFer1, the EP is different from other EPs in other solved structures of plant ferritins and consisted of a pair of β-sheets, a shorter helix, and two loops, which masks two hydrophobic pockets on the outer surface of every subunit. Furthermore, sequence analysis and structure comparison suggest that the EPs in ferritins from monocotyledons may adopt a novel fold pattern, and the conformations of EPs in ferritins are alterable among different plant species. Furthermore, additional eight iron atoms were first founded binding in the fourfold channels, demonstrating the vital function of fourfold channels in iron diffusion. In all, our structure provides new clues for understanding plant ferritins and the functions of the EP.

Recent Advances in Strategies for Imaging Detection and Intervention of Cellular Senescence

Cellular senescence is a stable cell cycle arrest state that can be triggered by a wide range of intrinsic or extrinsic stresses. Increased burden of senescent cells in various tissues is thought to contribute to aging and age-related diseases. Thus, the detection and interventions of senescent cells are critical for longevity and treatment of disease. However, the highly heterogeneous feature of senescence makes it challenging for precise detection and selective clearance of senescent cells in different age-related diseases. To address this issue, considerable efforts have been devoted to developing senescence-targeting molecular theranostic strategies, based on the potential biomarkers of cellular senescence. Herein, we review recent advances in the field of anti-senescence research and highlight the specific visualization and elimination of senescent cells. Additionally, the challenges in this emerging field are outlined.

Ironing out macrophages in atherosclerosis

<p indent="0mm">The most common cause of death worldwide is atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular disorders. Macrophages are important players in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and perform critical functions in iron homeostasis due to recycling iron by phagocytosis of senescent red blood cells and regulating iron availability in the tissue microenvironment. With the growth of research on the "iron hypothesis" of atherosclerosis, macrophage iron has gradually become a hotspot in the refined iron hypothesis. Macrophages with the M1, M2, M(Hb), Mox, and other phenotypes have been defined with different iron-handling capabilities related to the immune function and immunometabolism of macrophages, which influence the progression of atherosclerosis. In this review, we focus on macrophage iron and its effects on the development of atherosclerosis. We also cover the contradictory discoveries and propose a possible explanation. Finally, pharmaceutical modulation of macrophage iron is discussed as a promising target for atherosclerosis therapy.</p>.

Eating more sardines instead of fish oil supplementation: Beyond omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, a matrix of nutrients with cardiovascular benefits

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) play a significant role in the prevention and management of cardiometabolic diseases associated with a mild chronic pro-inflammatory background, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, hypertriglyceridaemia, and fatty liver disease. The effects of n-3 PUFA supplements specifically, remain controversial regarding reducing risks of cardiovascular events. n-3 PUFA supplements come at a cost for the consumer and can result in polypharmacy for patients on pharmacotherapy. Sardines are a well-known, inexpensive source of n-3 PUFA and their consumption could reduce the need for n-3 PUFA supplementation. Moreover, sardines contain other cardioprotective nutrients, although further insights are crucial to translate a recommendation for sardine consumption into clinical practice. The present review discusses the matrix of nutrients contained in sardines which confer health benefits for cardiometabolism, beyond n-3 PUFA. Sardines contain calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, iron, taurine, arginine and other nutrients which together modulate mild inflammation and exacerbated oxidative stress observed in cardiovascular disease and in haemodynamic dysfunction. In a common serving of sardines, calcium, potassium, and magnesium are the minerals at higher amounts to elicit clinical benefits, whilst other nutrients are present in lower but valuable amounts. A pragmatic approach towards the consumption of such nutrients in the clinical scenario should be adopted to consider the dose-response relationship effects on physiological interactions. As most recommendations currently available are based on an indirect rationale of the physiological actions of the nutrients found in sardines, randomised clinical trials are warranted to expand the evidence on the benefits of sardine consumption.

Molecular mechanism of the unusual biphasic effects of the natural compound hinokitiol on iron-induced cellular DNA damage

Hinokitiol is a natural monoterpene compound found in the heartwood of cupressaceous plants that have anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties. However, few studies have focused on its effect on iron-mediated cellular DNA damage. Here we show that hinokitiol exhibited unusual biphasic effects on iron-induced DNA damage in a molar ratio (hinokitiol/iron) dependent manner in HeLa cells. Under low ratios (<3:1), hinokitiol markedly enhanced DNA damage induced by Fe(II) or Fe(II)-H₂O₂; However, when the ratios increased over 3:1, the DNA damage was progressively inhibited. We found that the total cytoplasmic and nuclear iron concentration increased as the ratios of hinokitiol/iron increased. However, the cellular level of labile iron pool (LIP) only increased at ratios lower than 3, and the ROS generation is consistent with LIP change. Hinokitiol was found to interact with iron to form lipophilic hinokitiol-iron complexes with different stoichiometry and redox-activity by complementary applications of various analytical methods. Taken together, we propose that the enhancement of iron-induced cellular DNA damage by hinokitiol at low ratios (<3:1) was due to formation of lipophilic and redox-active iron complexes which facilitated cellular iron uptake and •OH production, while the inhibition at ratios higher than 3 was due to formation of redox-inactive iron complexes. These new findings will help us to design more effective drugs for the prevention and treatment of a series of iron-related diseases via regulating the two critical physicochemical factors (lipophilicity and redox activity of iron complexes) by simple natural compounds with iron-chelating properties.

Sleep-related motor disorders

Sleep-related motor disorders include non-rapid-eye movement (NREM) sleep parasomnias, rapid-eye movement (REM), sleep parasomnias including REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), isolated motor phenomena in sleep, and periodic limb movement disorder. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) occurs while awake but is closely related to sleep and has a circadian pattern. The pontine sublaterodorsal tegmental nucleus has an important role in aligning motor control with sleep states, and dysfunction in this region can explain motor activities including cataplexy and loss of REM atonia seen in REM sleep behavior disorder. This chapter begins with a review of motor control in sleep. The rest of the chapter summarizes the clinical presentation, epidemiology, differential and treatment of NREM, REM, and isolated sleep-related motor disorders as well as restless legs syndrome.

Severity of and Recovery From Anemia After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement: An Analysis of the PARTNER Trials and Registries

Background

Anemia is associated with increased mortality in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR); however, data on the effect of the severity of and recovery from anemia on clinical outcomes are limited. This study examined the impact of the severity of and recovery from anemia after TAVR.

Methods

Patients with symptomatic, severe aortic stenosis across all surgical risk groups from the Placement of Aortic Transcatheter Valves (PARTNER) I, II, and III trials and registries who underwent TAVR were analyzed. Baseline anemia was defined as mild (hemoglobin [Hb] level ≥11.0 g/dL and <13.0 g/dL for men and ≥11.0 g/dL and <12.0 g/dL for women) and moderate-to-severe anemia (Hb level <11.0 g/dL). Recovery from anemia was defined as an increase of ≥1 g/dL in the Hb level. Patients with missing Hb information and major bleeding within 30 days were excluded. The association of the severity of and recovery from anemia with clinical outcomes was analyzed using multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models. The primary outcome was 1-year all-cause mortality.

Results

The Kaplan-Meier estimate for 1-year all-cause mortality was 5.4%, 8.2%, and 14.5% in patients with no, mild, and moderate-to-severe anemia, respectively (P < .001). Recovery from anemia at 30 days occurred in 8.4% (229/2730) of all patients. Compared with those without baseline or 30-day anemia, patients with recovery from anemia had similar 1-year mortality (hazard ratio, 1.02; CI, 0.50-2.08; P = .96), whereas those without recovery from anemia had higher 1-year mortality (hazard ratio, 1.82; CI, 1.17-2.85; P = .009).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing TAVR, moderate-to-severe anemia is independently associated with increased 1-year mortality, and recovery from anemia after TAVR is associated with favorable outcomes. Further efforts are needed to determine whether preprocedural correction of anemia improves post-TAVR outcomes.