Vascular actions of estrogens: functional implications

Circulating monocyte adhesion repairs endothelium-denuded injury through downstream of kinase 3-mediated endothelialization

The integrity of the endothelial monolayer is critical for preventing life-threatening hemorrhaging and thrombosis. However, how severe endothelium-denuded injury is rapidly repaired remains unknown. Given the common biological properties between endothelial cells and circulating monocytes, we aimed to examine whether blood monocytes are involved in endothelium wound healing. The in vivo common carotid artery endothelium-denuded (CCAED) model was established through a wire-induced injury. Monocyte adhesion was assessed using immunofluorescence and a parallel plate flow chamber. We initially observed that the circulating monocyte-mediated endothelialization was better downstream of kinase 3 deficient mice (DOK3-/-) than that of wild-type (WT) mice following induction of the CCAED model. Rapid endothelialization increased endothelial integrity, prevented coagulation, and decreased thrombosis. Mechanistically, following endothelium-denuded injury, monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1) disassociated from DOK3 and C-C chemokine receptor type 2B (CCR2B), increased the intracellular Ca2+ concentration, and promoted adhesion in circulating monocytes. However, this process was inhibited by the CCR2B inhibitor INCB3344. Moreover, the adhesive functions of circulating monocytes isolated from DOK3-/- mice were stronger than those from WT mice. Furthermore, adhered monocytes expressed endothelial-specific markers and compensated for endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation in WT mice. Similarly, these effects were enhanced in DOK3-/- mice. Bindarit, a selective MCP1 inhibitor, suppressed endothelialization following CCAED surgery in WT mice but not in DOK3-/- mice. In conclusion, endothelialization mediated by circulating monocytes repairs endothelium-denuded injury to compensate for endothelial functions through MCP1/DOK3/CCR2B/Ca2+ signaling. Our findings indicate that circulating monocyte adhesion is an important endothelial wound healing mechanism.

Roadmap for alleviating the manifestations of ageing in the cardiovascular system

Ageing of the cardiovascular system is associated with frailty and various life-threatening diseases. As global populations grow older, age-related conditions increasingly determine healthspan and lifespan. The circulatory system not only supplies nutrients and oxygen to all tissues of the human body and removes by-products but also builds the largest interorgan communication network, thereby serving as a gatekeeper for healthy ageing. Therefore, elucidating organ-specific and cell-specific ageing mechanisms that compromise circulatory system functions could have the potential to prevent or ameliorate age-related cardiovascular diseases. In support of this concept, emerging evidence suggests that targeting the circulatory system might restore organ function. In this Roadmap, we delve into the organ-specific and cell-specific mechanisms that underlie ageing-related changes in the cardiovascular system. We raise unanswered questions regarding the optimal design of clinical trials, in which markers of biological ageing in humans could be assessed. We provide guidance for the development of gerotherapeutics, which will rely on the technological progress of the diagnostic toolbox to measure residual risk in elderly individuals. A major challenge in the quest to discover interventions that delay age-related conditions in humans is to identify molecular switches that can delay the onset of ageing changes. To overcome this roadblock, future clinical trials need to provide evidence that gerotherapeutics directly affect one or several hallmarks of ageing in such a manner as to delay, prevent, alleviate or treat age-associated dysfunction and diseases.

L-Arginine and Nitric Oxide in Vascular Regulation-Experimental Findings in the Context of Blood Donation

This narrative review provides an analysis of the role of nitric oxide (NO) and its precursors, particularly L-arginine, in vascular regulation and health, with an emphasis on findings from our experimental research in animal models. NO serves as a critical mediator of vascular function, contributing to vasodilation, the regulation of blood flow, and the prevention of thrombosis. As a primary precursor of NO, L-arginine is essential for maintaining endothelial integrity, modulating mitochondrial function, and reducing oxidative damage. This review synthesises the data and contextualises these findings within the physiological challenges faced by blood donors, such as repeated blood donation and associated oxidative stress. It examines the effects of L-arginine supplementation on mitochondrial respiration, lipid peroxidation, and microsomal oxidation in different conditions, including differences in age, gender, and dietary interventions. The mechanisms by which L-arginine enhances NO production, improves vascular elasticity, and alleviates endothelial dysfunction caused by reduced NO bioavailability are also investigated. By integrating experimental findings with insights from the existing literature, this review provides a perspective on the potential of L-arginine supplementation to address the specific physiological needs of blood donors. It highlights the importance of personalised nutritional approaches in enhancing donor recovery and vascular resilience. In addition, this review assesses the wider implications of L-arginine supplementation in mitigating oxidative stress and preserving vascular function. The interplay between NO bioavailability, dietary factors, and physiological adaptation in blood donors is highlighted, along with the identification of current knowledge gaps and recommendations for future research. By presenting both original experimental evidence and a critical synthesis of the literature, this article highlights the therapeutic potential of NO precursors, particularly L-arginine, in promoting vascular health in the context of blood donation.

Cardiac Autonomic and Affective Reactivity to Laboratory Stressors across the Menstrual Cycle: A Systematic Review

Fluctuations in steroid sex hormones are associated with altered cardiac autonomic and affective functioning across the female lifespan. The neuroendocrine pathways which modulate sex hormone changes during the menstrual cycle have reciprocal interactions with the autonomic nervous system, an integral system for self-regulation and stress response. Cardiac autonomic activity is often imbalanced among individuals with mental and physical health conditions. However, it is unclear whether variations in female-typical sex hormones across the menstrual cycle significantly alter cardiac autonomic and affective stress reactivity, which may underlie menstrual-related mood and psychosomatic symptoms. The present systematic review aims to address this gap by characterizing patterns of cardiac autonomic activity at baseline, and cardiac autonomic and affective reactivity to laboratory stress tasks across the menstrual cycle in reproductive-aged women. The review was preregistered (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/B2Y5Q) and conducted in line with PRISMA guidelines. Twenty studies and 28 records were identified and discussed. The study found modest support for increased cardiac sympathetic activation at baseline and in response to stress, and greater affective reactivity within the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. These results expand upon prior research demonstrating cardiac autonomic imbalance and affective vulnerability within the luteal phase to show that these patterns also influence stress reactivity. Additionally, the review aims to identify notable methodological limitations and gaps within this body of literature and suggests areas of future research to clarify the role of cardiac autonomic and affective processes in steroid sex hormone-related symptomatology.

Macular, choroidal and disc associations across women's reproductive life stages: a scoping review from menarche to post-menopause

Oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate cyclically in women throughout their adult lives. Although these hormones cross the blood-retinal barrier and bind to intraocular receptors, their effects remain unclear. We present the first review to date on associations between posterior pole structures-specifically the macula, choroid, and optic disc-and both the menstrual cycle and post-menopausal period, utilising multimodal imaging techniques in healthy adult non-pregnant women. We excluded studies on contraception and hormonal replacement therapy, focusing solely on physiological associations. Despite the comprehensive scope of our review, limited data and inconsistent reporting among studies prevented the establishment of meaningful trends. Across menstrual cycle phases, choroidal thickness (CHT) was the most consistently reported parameter, with thinning during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase. Conversely, no significant differences were observed in macular or disc morphology across the cycle, likely reflecting a preserved structure despite potential fluctuations in blood flow and perfusion. Studies comparing pre- and post-menopausal associations, after adjusting for age or body mass index (BMI), failed to reveal meaningful trends, highlighting the difficulty in separating the effect of age from hormonal declines in older women. Understanding how hormonal cycles impact the posterior pole in women is crucial for addressing sex differences in various ocular pathologies. Research on female-specific factors is still sparse, and interestingly, the majority of affiliations in the reviewed articles did not originate from regions with the highest biomedical research funding and publication rates. We encourage further studies focusing on female-specific variables and provide recommendations for future designs.

Vascular health and exercise in females throughout the lifespan: Exploring puberty, pregnancy and menopause

This narrative review highlights the impact of exercise on vascular health in females over the lifespan with an emphasis on puberty, pregnancy and menopause. These events encompass substantial changes in sex hormone levels, particularly oestrogens and progesterone. They are also accompanied by distinct adaptations of the central, peripheral and cerebral vasculature. Regular exercise is an effective mechanism to reduce vascular risk in females of all ages, especially for those at higher risk for vascular disorders. However, there are large variabilities in the vascular adaptations to exercise in females that may be related to circulating sex hormone levels. In addition, exogenous hormones, such as oral contraceptives taken after puberty or hormonal replacement therapy taken to mitigate symptoms of menopause, may interact with exercise-induced changes in vascular function. We highlight how more research is needed to understand the optimal exercise interventions to promote vascular health in females across the lifespan, especially during times of hormonal transition.

Impact of Early Menopause and Hormonal Therapy Replacement on Aortic Stenosis Progression

BACKGROUND

Early menopause has been associated with several cardiovascular diseases. Its impact on the progression of aortic stenosis (AS) remains unknown. We conducted an analysis to examine the impact of early menopause without hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) on the progression of AS in postmenopausal women with AS.

METHODS

This sub-analysis included 33 female patients with at least mild AS (mean age 65±10) prospectively enrolled in the PROGRESSA study (NCT01679431). Anatomical assessment of AS was performed by multidetector computed tomography, while hemodynamic assessment of AS was performed by Doppler-echocardiography.

RESULTS

Over a median follow-up of 2[1-4] years, early menopausal women without HRT showed faster progression of aortic valve calcification (AVC) (100[58-130] vs. 23[2-71] AU/year, p=0.03, mean pressure gradient (MG) 2.37[0.82-3.61] vs. 0.33[0.01-1.78] mmHg/year, p=0.04, and aortic valve area indexed to body surface area (AVAi) (-0.12[-0.23;0.002] vs. -0.004[-0.07;0.08] cm2/m2/year, p=0.07). In multivariate analysis adjusted for several clinical, echocardiographic and anatomic factors, early menopause without HRT remained independently associated with faster AVC progression (p=0.003). Women who received HRT showed a slower progression of AVC compared with those who never received HRT (62[2-100] vs. (20[10-42] AU/year, p=0.13). Multivariate analysis also showed that AVC progressed less rapidly in women who received HRT (p=0.04).

CONCLUSION

In this study of post-menopausal women with AS, early menopause without HRT was associated with faster progression of AS, both anatomically and hemodynamically. However, the use of HRT was associated with slower progression of AS.

Activating transcription factor-3 orchestrates the modulation of vascular anti-contractile activity and relaxation by governing the secretion of HDL-bound sphingosine-1-phosphate in perivascular adipose tissue

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Perivascular adipose tissues (PVATs) play a critical role in modulating vascular homeostasis and protecting against cardiovascular dysfunction-mediated blood pressure dysregulation. We demonstrated that the activating transcription factor-3 (Atf3) gene in the PVAT is crucial for improving vascular wall tension abnormalities; however, its protective mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we aim to determine whether ATF3 regulates PVAT-derived relaxing factor (PVDRF) biosynthesis and if its secretion contributes to vasorelaxation.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

This study employed an in vivo animal model using global Atf3-deficient mice, in vitro blood vessel myography, and biochemical analyses to evaluate ATF3-mediated PVDRF release and reactivity in the vasculature.

KEY RESULTS

Wild-type (WT) mouse thoracic aortic PVAT extracts significantly induced resting tone dilation and attenuated vasoconstrictor-induced contractile responses compared to Atf3-/- mice. Heat-stable PVAT extracts from WT mice caused sustained and reproducible vasodilation without tachyphylaxis in control aortic rings. Biochemical evaluation of PVDRF release revealed that Atf3-/- mice had lower sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) levels than WT mice. Furthermore, PVAT extracts from WT mice induced long-lasting vasorelaxation, which was significantly inhibited by the S1P3 receptor antagonist TY52156 and scavenger receptor class B type 1 receptor antagonist glyburide.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

ATF3 within the PVAT can modulate vascular function by strengthening sphingosine kinase 1 (sphk1)-S1P-S1P3 receptor lipid signalling and stimulating S1P binding to HDL to form the vasodilator HDL-S1P. ATF3 is an essential modulator for maintaining the physiological function of PVAT, providing a novel target for treatment of obesity-related cardiovascular diseases.

The menopausal transition and multiple physiologic measures of early brain health in the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study

OBJECTIVE

This study proposed to investigate the cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of menopausal status with physiologic brain magnetic resonance imaging measures.

METHODS

The sample included women from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults study who self-reported their reproductive histories and participated in the brain magnetic resonance imaging substudies at the year 25 (n = 292) and year 30 (n = 258) follow-up examinations. Menopausal status was classified based on natural menstrual cycle regularity/cessation at both time points. Gray matter cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) was calculated as mean percent change in blood oxygen level-dependent signals in activated voxels following a breath-hold challenge. Gray matter cerebral blood flow (CBF) was assessed using pseudo-continuous arterial spin labeling. Linear regression models were used to examine cross-sectional and longitudinal associations of menopausal status with gray matter CVR and CBF after adjustment for potential age-related covariates.

RESULTS

Women were mean age 50 years at year 25; 37% were Black; and 46% were postmenopausal. Relative to premenopause or perimenopause, postmenopause was associated with lower gray matter CVR at year 30 cross-sectionally (1.86% vs 1.69%, P = 0.03, respectively) and longitudinally for women who were postmenopausal at both time points (-0.32% [95% CI, -0.63% to -0.02%]) after covariate adjustment. Mean CVR values were also lower for these women when compared with women who remained premenopausal or perimenopausal (1.71% compared with 2.04%, respectively). Menopausal status was unrelated to either concurrent or longitudinal gray matter CBF.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that the ability of vessels to adapt in response to hypercapnia may be impaired during menopause, even within a relatively short time window.

Risk Factors Favoring Plaque Erosion

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Plaque erosion is the second leading cause of coronary thrombosis following plaque rupture and represents a key pathophysiological process underlying acute coronary syndromes that can culminate in sudden coronary death. While the precise mechanisms and risk factors driving plaque rupture are well-established, those for erosion have only recently been explored. This review summarizes current literature on the characteristics and risk factors favoring plaque erosion.

RECENT FINDINGS

Plaque erosion is characterized by a defective endothelial layer in the intima, promoting thrombus formation in the presence of an intact fibrous cap. It is more common in younger women (< 50 years) and smokers. Pathologic intimal thickening or fibroatheroma are common underlying lesions. Risk factors include gender, age, smoking, and disturbances in shear flow. Advances in pathogenic and molecular mechanisms, such as endothelial shear stress, neutrophil activation, and toll-like receptor-2 pathways, are discussed. Understanding the major risk factors for plaque erosion can inform diagnostics and therapeutics to prevent the progression of arterial thrombosis.

Cardiovascular hospitalizations and deaths in adults, children and pregnant women

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and strokes are the leading cause of death worldwide. To estimate the number and incidence of cardiovascular hospitalizations and deaths in adults and children and strokes and acute coronary syndromes (ACS) among pregnant women in France. Using National Health Data, we identified all hospitalizations for CVD in 2022 and cardiovascular deaths in 2021. We also identified all women in the general health insurance scheme who gave birth in France during 2010-2018 after 22 weeks' gestation and all strokes and ACS that occurred during pregnancy and postpartum. In adults in 2022, there were 1,229,003 hospitalizations for CVD among 925,936 adults (59.2% men) for a standardized rate of 1614 per 100,000. This was twice as high in men versus women and increased with age and social deprivation. In 2021, 138,137 adults died of CVD (47.4% men), i.e. 216 per 100,000 adults. Among children born during the first 6 months of 2022, a congenital heart defect (CHD) was identified in 3876 (1068 cases per 100,000 live births). In 2021, 193 children died of a CHD (1.4 per 100,000) and 100 of another CVD (0.7 per 100,000). In the women accounting for the 6.3 million deliveries during 2010-2018, 1261 strokes and 225 ACS were identified during pregnancy and the postpartum period, i.e. respective incidence rates of 24.0 and 4.3 per 100,000 person-years. The burden of CVD calls for large-scale action to improve the prevention, screening and management of CVD in these different populations.

Sex and Age Differences in the Impact of Metabolic Syndrome on Heart Failure Development

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a cluster of metabolic dysregulations, is recognized as a significant risk factor for the development of heart failure (HF). The pathophysiological mechanisms linking MetS to HF are complex and multifaceted, with the components of MetS contributing to cardiac deterioration through impaired myocardial energy metabolism, increased inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Numerous clinical studies have confirmed the relationship between MetS and HF. Multiple studies have demonstrated that the impact of MetS on HF varies by sex and age. Metabolic disorders, including MetS, have a greater impact on HF incidence in younger adults compared to the elderly population and in women compared to men. Although the reasons for these differences are not yet fully understood, recognizing the sex- and age-related variations is crucial for developing targeted strategies to prevent HF in individuals with MetS. Future research should continue to investigate the underlying mechanisms behind these variations and identify optimal management approaches that account for both sex and age in reducing HF risk.

Retinal morphology across the menstrual cycle: insights from the UK Biobank

Oestradiol and progesterone levels are higher in menstruating women than men of the same age, and their receptors are present in their neurosensory retina and retinal pigment epithelium. However, the impact of this hormonal environment on retinal physiology in women remains unclear. Using self-reported menstrual cycle phases as a surrogate for fluctuating hormonal levels, we investigated associations with retinovascular indices on colour fundus photograph and retinal thickness in optical coherence tomography across regularly menstruating women in the UK Biobank. We found no differences in retinal thickness across the cycle; however, vessel density, arteriolar and venular, and fractal dimension were higher in the luteal phase than follicular. The calibre of the central retinal vessels did not differ. This study suggests that the menstrual cycle phase might be associated with retinal microvasculature density in non-invasive imaging. It raises awareness for this understudied area, providing insights into neuroscience fields and epidemiological studies.

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome Related Vaginal Bleeding and the Efficacy of Transcatheter Foam Sclerotherapy in Managing This Condition: Two Case Reports

Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) is a chronic condition primarily characterized by pelvic pain and heaviness, with vaginal bleeding being a rare but significant symptom. We present two cases of PCS-related vaginal bleeding, emphasizing the necessity of considering PCS in differential diagnoses for abnormal vaginal bleeding. A 28-year-old Chinese woman presented with abnormal vaginal bleeding exacerbated by abdominal pressure during activities like squatting or defecation. Imaging revealed a dilated right ovarian vein, and transcatheter venography confirmed Nutcracker syndrome. After undergoing transcatheter foam sclerotherapy, her symptoms resolved. The second case involves a 29-year-old Chinese woman with similar symptoms; imaging and venography identified a dilated left ovarian vein. Following sclerotherapy, her symptoms also alleviated. These cases underscore the importance of recognizing PCS as a potential cause of abnormal vaginal bleeding and demonstrate the efficacy of transcatheter foam sclerotherapy in managing this condition. Integrating clinical presentation with imaging findings is crucial for timely diagnosis and effective treatment, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

Menstrual cycle and the protective effects of remote ischemic preconditioning against endothelial ischemia/reperfusion injury: comparison with postmenopausal women

The aim of this study was to determine whether the capacity of remote ischemic preconditioning (IPC) against endothelial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury changes across the menstrual cycle in premenopausal women and to compare IPC responses to postmenopausal women. Thirty-five women were studied (22 premenopausal/13 postmenopausal). Changes in endothelial function were determined during the early follicular vs. the late follicular phase (after positive urine ovulation test; Study 1), vs. the mid-luteal phase (after positive urine progesterone test; Study 2), and vs. estrogen-deficient postmenopausal women; Study 3). Endothelium-dependent vasodilation was assessed by the forearm blood flow (FBF) to reactive hyperemia with/without I/R injury with remote IPC (3 × 5 min cycles of upper arm ischemia). In the premenopausal women, peak FBF responses during the early follicular phase were blunted 20% (P < 0.0001) with I/R injury (from baseline: 23.4 ± 6.2 to 19.5 ± 4.9 mL/100 mL tissue/min) compared with the late follicular/mid-luteal phases despite IPC. In postmenopausal women, peak FBF was diminished (from: 21.1 ± 5.1 to 17.2 ± 4.4 mL/100 mL tissue/min), and total FBF (area under the curve) was decreased a third (-32%; P < 0.001) with I/R injury. Protection from I/R injury was preserved during the late follicular (from baseline: 21.7 ± 5.3 to 24.8 ± 5.9 mL/100 mL tissue/min; P = 0.109) and mid-luteal phases (from: 25.1 ± 3.9 to 27.2 ± 5.7 mL/100 mL tissue/min; P = 0.267). Reduced estrogen during the early follicular phase and the rise in estrogen associated with ovulation and the mid-luteal phase may contribute to changes in IPC-mediated protection in premenopausal women and shed light on how cardioprotection may change with ovarian hormone deficiency with the menopause transition.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The capacity of remote ischemic preconditioning to protect against vascular endothelial ischemia/reperfusion injury varies widely across the phases of the menstrual cycle in healthy premenopausal women. Robust protection was afforded during the late follicular and mid-luteal phases. In contrast, weakened protection was demonstrated during the early follicular phase, with a level of impairment similar to estrogen-deficient postmenopausal women.

Nitric Oxide Signaling and Regulation in the Cardiovascular System: Recent Advances

Nitric oxide (NO) from endothelial NO synthase importantly contributes to vascular homeostasis. Reduced NO production or increased scavenging during disease conditions with oxidative stress contribute to endothelial dysfunction and NO deficiency. In addition to the classical enzymatic NO synthases (NOS) system, NO can also be generated via the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway. Dietary and pharmacological approaches aimed at increasing NO bioactivity, especially in the cardiovascular system, have been the focus of much research since the discovery of this small gaseous signaling molecule. Despite wide appreciation of the biological role of NOS/NO signaling, questions still remain about the chemical nature of NOS-derived bioactivity. Recent studies show that NO-like bioactivity can be efficiently transduced by mobile NO-ferroheme species, which can transfer between proteins, partition into a hydrophobic phase, and directly activate the soluble guanylyl cyclase-cGMP-protein kinase G pathway without intermediacy of free NO. Moreover, interaction between red blood cells and the endothelium in the regulation of vascular NO homeostasis have gained much attention, especially in conditions with cardiometabolic disease. In this review we discuss both classical and nonclassical pathways for NO generation in the cardiovascular system and how these can be modulated for therapeutic purposes. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: After four decades of intensive research, questions persist about the transduction and control of nitric oxide (NO) synthase bioactivity. Here we discuss NO signaling in cardiovascular health and disease, highlighting new findings, such as the important role of red blood cells in cardiovascular NO homeostasis. Nonclassical signaling modes, like the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway, and therapeutic opportunities related to the NO system are discussed. Existing and potential pharmacological treatments/strategies, as well as dietary components influencing NO generation and signaling are covered.

The Role of Curcumin in Modulating Vascular Function and Structure during Menopause: A Systematic Review

The risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) escalates in women during menopause, which is associated with increased vascular endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffness, and vascular remodeling. Meanwhile, curcumin has been demonstrated to enhance vascular function and structure in various studies. Therefore, this study systematically reviewed the recent literature regarding the potential role of curcumin in modulating vascular function and structure during menopause. The Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science electronic databases were searched to identify relevant articles. Clinical and preclinical studies involving menopausal women and postmenopausal animal models with outcomes related to vascular function or structure were included. After thorough screening, seven articles were selected for data extraction, comprising three animal studies and four clinical trials. The findings from this review suggested that curcumin has beneficial effects on vascular function and structure during menopause by addressing endothelial function, arterial compliance, hemodynamic parameters, and the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. Therefore, curcumin has the potential to be utilized as a supplement to enhance vascular health in menopausal women. However, larger-scale clinical trials employing gold-standard techniques to evaluate vascular health in menopausal women are necessary to validate the preliminary results obtained from small-scale randomized clinical trials involving curcumin supplementation (INPLASY, INPLASY202430043).

Influence of endogenous and exogenous hormones on the cardiovascular response to lower extremity exercise and group III/IV activation in young females

Oral contraceptive (OC) use can increase resting blood pressure (BP) in females as well as contribute to greater activation of group III/IV afferents during upper body exercise. It is unknown, however, whether an exaggerated BP response occurs during lower limb exercise in OC users. We sought to elucidate the group III/IV afferent activity-mediated BP and heart rate responses while performing lower extremity tasks during early and late follicular phases in young, healthy females. Females not taking OCs (NOC: n = 8; age: 25 ± 4 yr) and those taking OCs (OC: n = 10; age: 23 ± 2 yr) completed a continuous knee extension/flexion passive stretch (mechanoreflex) and cycling exercise with subsystolic cuff occlusion (exercise pressor reflex), which was followed by a 2-min postexercise circulatory occlusion (PECO) (metaboreflex). Data collection occurred on two occasions: once during the early follicular phase (days 1-4) and once during the late follicular phase (days 10-14) of their menstrual cycle (NOC) or during the placebo and active pill phases (OC). Resting mean arterial BP and heart rate were not different between phases in NOC and OC participants (P > 0.05). Hemodynamic responses to metaboreflex, mechanoreflex, and collective exercise pressor reflex activation were not different between phases in both groups (P > 0.05). In conclusion, although OCs are known to increase BP at rest, our findings indicate that neither endogenous nor exogenous (OC) sex hormones modulate BP during large, lower limb muscle exercise with or without group III/IV afferent activation in young, healthy females.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Sex differences in the cardiovascular response to exercise have been demonstrated and may be dependent on sex hormone levels. Furthermore, oral contraceptives (OCs) have been shown to exaggerate the blood pressure response to upper extremity exercise. The results of this study indicate that neither endogenous nor exogenous (OC) sex hormones modulate BP during lower extremity dynamic exercise or with group III/IV afferent activation in young, healthy females.

Energy availability modulates regional blood flow via estrogen-independent pathways in regularly menstruating young women

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the impact of short-term low energy availability (LEA) on vascular function in young, regularly menstruating women.

METHODS

Participants were 19 women, aged 22.9 ± 4.2 years, with body mass index 18-30 kg·m2. They were divided into two groups and completed two conditions in a crossover design: a 3-day control condition (CON) with an energy availability of 45 kcals·kgFFM-1·day-1 and a 3-day LEA condition of 15 kcals·kgFFM-1 day-1. Assessments were conducted during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. Outcome measures included forearm blood flow (FBF), heart rate, blood pressure, arterial stiffness, resting energy expenditure (REE), metabolic blood markers and body composition.

RESULTS

Significant time-by-condition interactions were found for resting FBF (p = .004), REE (p = .042), triiodothyronine (p = .006), β-hydroxybutyrate (p = .002) and body mass (p < .001). Resting FBF was 1.43 ± 1.01 and 1.31 ± 0.61 (arbitrary units) at pre and post, respectively, in LEA and 1.52 ± 0.7 and 1.76 ± 0.57 at pre and post in CON. The LEA condition led to a decrease in triiodothyronine (pre: 1.54 ± 0.28, post: 1.29 ± 0.27 ng ml-1), REE (pre: 1588 ± 165, post: 1487 ± 160 kcals day-1) and body mass (pre: 61.4 ± 7.5, post: 59.6 ± 7.3 kg). Changes in resting FBF were significantly correlated with changes in REE in the LEA condition (r = 0.53; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

Short-term LEA modifies regional blood flow and this might contribute to the observed decreased in REE. Findings emphasize the need for careful management of energy availability in populations at risk of LEA.

Strain- and sex-specific differences in intestinal microhemodynamics and gut microbiota composition

Background

Intestinal microcirculation is a critical interface for nutrient exchange and energy transfer, and is essential for maintaining physiological integrity. Our study aimed to elucidate the relationships among intestinal microhemodynamics, genetic background, sex, and microbial composition.

Methods

To dissect the microhemodynamic landscape of the BALB/c, C57BL/6J, and KM mouse strains, laser Doppler flowmetry paired with wavelet transform analysis was utilized to determine the amplitude of characteristic oscillatory patterns. Microbial consortia were profiled using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. To augment our investigation, a broad-spectrum antibiotic regimen was administered to these strains to evaluate the impact of gut microbiota depletion on intestinal microhemodynamics. Immunohistochemical analyses were used to quantify platelet endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1), estrogen receptor α (ESR1), and estrogen receptor β (ESR2) expression.

Results

Our findings revealed strain-dependent and sex-related disparities in microhemodynamic profiles and characteristic oscillatory behaviors. Significant differences in the gut microbiota contingent upon sex and genetic lineage were observed, with correlational analyses indicating an influence of the microbiota on microhemodynamic parameters. Following antibiotic treatment, distinct changes in blood perfusion levels and velocities were observed, including a reduction in female C57BL/6J mice and a general decrease in perfusion velocity. Enhanced erythrocyte aggregation and modulated endothelial function post-antibiotic treatment indicated that a systemic response to microbiota depletion impacted cardiac amplitude. Immunohistochemical data revealed strain-specific and sex-specific PECAM-1 and ESR1 expression patterns that aligned with observed intestinal microhemodynamic changes.

Conclusions

This study highlights the influence of both genetic and sex-specific factors on intestinal microhemodynamics and the gut microbiota in mice. These findings also emphasize a substantial correlation between intestinal microhemodynamics and the compositional dynamics of the gut bacterial community.

Plasma Biomarkers of Traumatic Brain Injury in Adolescents With Sport-Related Concussion

Importance

Blood-based biomarkers may clarify underlying neuropathology and potentially assist in clinical management of adolescents with sport-related concussion (SRC).

Objective

To investigate the association between SRC and plasma biomarkers in adolescents.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prospective cohort study in Canadian sport and clinic settings (Surveillance in High Schools and Community Sport to Reduce Concussions and Their Consequences study; September 2019 to November 2022). Participants were a convenience sample of 849 adolescent (ages 10-18 years) sport participants with blood samples. Data were analyzed from February to September 2023.

Exposures

Blood collection and clinical testing preseason (uninjured) and post-SRC follow-ups (ie, ≤72 hours, 1 week, and biweekly until medical clearance to return to play [RTP]).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ubiquitin c-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1), neurofilament light (NfL), and total tau (t-tau) were assayed. Group-level comparisons of biomarker levels were conducted between uninjured and post-SRC intervals (postinjury day [PID] 0-3, 4-10, 11-28, and >28) considering age and sex as modifiers. Secondary analyses explored associations between biomarker concentrations and clinical outcomes (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool, Fifth Edition [SCAT5] symptom scores and time to RTP).

Results

This study included 1023 plasma specimens from 695 uninjured participants (467 male participants [67.2%]; median [IQR] age, 15.90 [15.13-16.84] years) and 154 participants with concussion (78 male participants [51.0%]; median [IQR] age, 16.12 [15.31-17.11] years). Acute (PID 0-3) differences relative to uninjured levels were found for GFAP (female participants: 17.8% increase; β = 0.164; 95% CI, 0.064 to 0.263; P = .001; male participants: 17.1% increase; β = 0.157; 95% CI, 0.086 to 0.229; P < .001), UCH-L1 (female participants: 43.4% increase; β = 0.361; 95% CI, 0.125 to 0.596; P = .003), NfL (male participants: 19.0% increase; β = 0.174; 95% CI, 0.087 to 0.261; P < .001), and t-tau (female participants: -22.9%; β = -0.260; 95% CI, -0.391 to -0.130; P < .001; male participants: -18.4%; β = -0.203; 95% CI, -0.300 to -0.106; P < .001). Differences were observed for all biomarkers at PID 4 to 10, 11 to 28, and greater than 28 compared with uninjured groups. GFAP, NfL, and t-tau were associated with SCAT5 symptom scores across several PID intervals. Higher GFAP after 28 days post-SRC was associated with earlier clearance to RTP (hazard ratio, 4.78; 95% CI, 1.59 to 14.31; P = .01). Male participants exhibited lower GFAP (-9.7%), but higher UCH-L1 (21.3%) compared with female participants. Age was associated with lower GFAP (-5.4% per year) and t-tau (-5.3% per year).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of 849 adolescents, plasma biomarkers differed between uninjured participants and those with concussions, supporting their continued use to understand concussion neuropathology. Age and sex are critical considerations as these biomarkers progress toward clinical validation.

The Dual Faces of Oestrogen: The Impact of Exogenous Oestrogen on the Physiological and Pathophysiological Functions of Tissues and Organs

Oestrogen plays a crucial physiological role in both women and men. It regulates reproductive functions and maintains various non-reproductive tissues through its receptors, such as oestrogen receptor 1/oestrogen receptor α (ESR1/Erα), oestrogen receptor 2/oestrogen receptor β (ESR2/Erβ), and G protein-coupled oestrogen receptor 1 (GPER). This hormone is essential for the proper functioning of women's ovaries and uterus. Oestrogen supports testicular function and spermatogenesis in men and contributes to bone density, cardiovascular health, and metabolic processes in both sexes. Nuclear receptors Er-α and Er-β belong to the group of transcription activators that stimulate cell proliferation. In the environment, compounds similar in structure to the oestrogens compete with endogenous hormones for binding sites to receptors and to disrupt homeostasis. The lack of balance in oestrogen levels can lead to infertility, cancer, immunological disorders, and other conditions. Exogenous endocrine-active compounds, such as bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and organic phosphoric acid esters, can disrupt signalling pathways responsible for cell division and apoptosis processes. The metabolism of oestrogen and its structurally similar compounds can produce carcinogenic substances. It can also stimulate the growth of cancer cells by regulating genes crucial for cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, with long-term elevated levels linked to hormone-dependent cancers such as breast cancer. Oestrogens can also affect markers of immunological activation and contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases. Hormone replacement therapy, oral contraception, in vitro fertilisation stimulation, and hormonal stimulation of transgender people can increase the risk of breast cancer. Cortisol, similar in structure to oestrogen, can serve as a biomarker associated with the risk of developing breast cancer. The aim of this review is to analyse the sources of oestrogens and their effects on the endogenous and exogenous process of homeostasis.

Pro-inflammatory diets promote the formation of hyperuricemia

Background

Hyperuricemia, as a very prevalent chronic metabolic disease with increasing prevalence year by year, poses a significant burden on individual patients as well as on the global health care and disease burden, and there is growing evidence that it is associated with other underlying diseases such as hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The association between hyperuricemia and dietary inflammatory index (DII) scores was investigated in this study.

Methods

This study enrolled 13, 040 adult subjects (aged ≥ 20 years) from the US National Health and Nutrition Survey from 2003 to 2018. The inflammatory potential of the diet was assessed by the DII score, and logistic regression was performed to evaluate the relationship between the DII score and the development of hyperuricemia; subgroup analyses were used to discuss the influence of other factors on the relationship.

Results

Participants in the other quartiles had an increased risk of hyperuricemia compared to those in the lowest quartile of DII scores. Stratification analyses stratified by body mass index (BMI), sex, hypertension, drinking, diabetes, education level and albumin-creatinine-ratio (ACR) revealed that the DII score was also associated with the risk of hyperuricemia (P<0.05). There was an interaction in subgroup analysis stratified by sex, age, and hypertension (P for interaction <0.05). The results showed a linear-like relationship between DII and hyperuricemia, with a relatively low risk of developing hyperuricemia at lower DII scores and an increased risk of developing hyperuricemia as DII scores increased.

Conclusions

This study showed that the risk of hyperuricemia increased at slightly higher DII scores (i.e., with pro-inflammatory diets), but not significantly at lower levels (i.e., with anti-inflammatory diets). The contribution of the DII score to the development of hyperuricemia increased with higher scores. The relationship between inflammatory diets and hyperuricemia requires more research on inflammation, and this study alerts the public that pro-inflammatory diets may increase the risk of developing hyperuricemia.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection and fibromuscular dysplasia: insights into recent developments

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), an uncommon cause of acute coronary syndrome, continues to be a poorly understood disease predominantly affecting females. It is characterized by an abrupt separation in the coronary arterial wall due to intramural bleeding. Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-atherosclerotic arteriopathy manifesting in medium and small-sized arteries. It is a concomitant disease found among SCAD patients. In some studies, FMD prevalence in SCAD patients ranges between 25%-86%, which can be explained through varying screening techniques or modalities. The potential association has been elucidated in some studies; notably, not only has a genetic link been recently delineated between SCAD and FMD, but there is data to suggest that FMD not only can predispose to SCAD but can also be a potential predictor of its recurrence. However, a clear-cut correlation between the two has still not been established due to conflicting reports in the literature. To further dive into its pathology, it is crucial to highlight the importance of systematic screening in SCAD in order to identify associated risk factors and to be used as a method of FMD detection in such patients. Together, the two pathologies pose unique challenges in understanding its pathophysiology, diagnosis and management, as there is no clear evidence of a definitive treatment plan for patients with SCAD and FMD. A potentially beneficial modality of management is physical exercise, which is currently understudied in the long-term approach to treatment for patients with concomitant SCAD and FMD. Limited research in this field brings disadvantages to the understanding of the association between these two diseases, in order to give rise to better management recommendations. This mini-review aims to highlight the recent developments in the association between SCAD and FMD, its potential genetic association and some insights in screening, diagnosis, and management.

Women's Heart Health and the Menopausal Transition: Two Faces of the Same Coin

The impact of the presence or absence of sex hormones on women's health is woefully underresearched. Fundamentally, women's bodies are now understood to spend considerable time under widely fluctuating hormonal influences, including puberty, pregnancy, peripartum, and menopause, and a woman's vessels are therefore preset for functional and physiological alterations based on levels of sex hormones. However, our understanding of the influences of sex hormones on the regulation of a multitude of biological and physiological processes has not translated into the development and/or collection or analyses of data on therapeutic treatments and/or outcomes in the context of women's disease management.

Acute and short-term beetroot juice nitrate-rich ingestion enhances cardiovascular responses following aerobic exercise in postmenopausal women with arterial hypertension: A triple-blinded randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

The increase in blood pressure (BP) levels in the postmenopausal period can be partly explained by the decrease in nitric oxide synthases (NOS).

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the acute and one-week effects of beetroot juice nitrate-rich (BRJ-NO3-rich) ingestion on cardiovascular and autonomic performance in response to submaximal aerobic exercise in postmenopausal women with systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) who are physically inactive.

METHODS

Fourteen postmenopausal women with SAH [mean (SD) age: 59(4) y; BMI (kg/m2): 29.2(3.1)] completed submaximal aerobic exercise bouts after an acute and a one-week intervention with BRJ in a placebo-controlled, randomized, triple-blind, crossover design. Participants ingested either BRJ (800 mg of NO3-) or placebo acutely and drank either BRJ (400 mg of NO3-) or placebo every day for the next six days. After two and ½ hours, they performed a session of aerobic submaximal aerobic exercise, and their systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP), flow-mediated dilation (FMD), heart rate (HR) recovery, and HR variability were measured.

RESULTS

In the post-exercise recovery period, SBP dropped significantly in the BRJ-NO3-rich group (-9.28 mmHg [95%CI: -1.68 to -16.88] ES: -0.65, p = 0.019) compared to placebo after acute ingestion. The FMD values increased after acute BRJ-NO3-rich on post-exercise (3.18 % [0.36 to 5.99] ES: 0.87, p = 0.031). After the one-week intervention, FMD values were higher in the BRJ-NO3-rich group before (4.5 % [1.62 to 7.37] ES: 1.21, p = 0.005) and post-exercise measurements (4.2 % [1.52 to 6.87] ES: 1.22, p = 0.004) vs. placebo. HRV indices with remarkable parasympathetic modulation to heart recovered faster on the BRJ-NO3-rich group than placebo group. No between-group differences were identified in values of HR post-exercise recovery in the 30s, 60s, 120s, 180s, and 300s.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute and short-term BRJ-NO3-rich ingestion may enhance cardiovascular and autonomic behavior in response to aerobic exercise in postmenopausal women diagnosed with SAH.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRY NUMBER

https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05384340.

Midlife symptoms and household stress are associated with fingernail cortisol

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates menopausal symptoms, household stressors, and ethnopolitical problems in relation to stress markers, including chronic stress measured by fingernail cortisol, perceived stress measured by the Perceived Stress Scale, and acute stress measured by blood pressure.

METHODS

Data from 151 women aged 40 to 55 years were collected from four regions in Nagaland, India, using opportunity sampling. A structured questionnaire was used to collect sociodemographic and lifestyle variables. Symptoms were grouped into emotional instability, vasosomatic symptoms, mood disturbances, and aches and pains using principal component analysis in a previous study, and stress markers included fingernail cortisol, perceived stress, and blood pressure. Community-level, household-level, and midlife symptoms were included to ascertain stressors from different sources.

RESULTS

Our results revealed a significant positive association between a composite measure of emotional instability and stress assessed by fingernail cortisol ( β = 0.46, P < 0.001). In addition, there was a positive association between mood disturbances and fingernail cortisol ( β = 0.24, P < 0.05). This relationship persisted after controlling for body mass index, socioeconomic status, and menopausal status. In addition, household problems were positively associated with fingernail cortisol ( β = 0.25, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight the potential health impacts of the psychosocial stress response associated with domestic stressors such as financial strain and concerns about children and health.

Nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation in human bone

OBJECTIVE

Regulation of blood flow to bone is critical but poorly understood, particularly in humans. This study aims to determine whether nitric oxide (NO), a major regulator of vascular tone to other tissues, contributes also to the regulation of blood flow to bone.

METHODS

In young healthy adults (n = 16, 8F, 8M), we characterized NO-mediated vasodilation in the tibia in response to sublingual nitroglycerin and contrasted it to lower leg. Blood flow responses were assessed in supine individuals by continuously measuring tibial total hemoglobin (tHb) via near-infrared spectroscopy and lower leg blood flow (LBF) as popliteal flow velocity via Doppler ultrasound in the same leg.

RESULTS

LBF increased by Δ9.73 ± 0.66 cm/s and peaked 4.4 min after NO administration and declined slowly but remained elevated (Δ3.63 ± 0.60 cm/s) at 10 min. In contrast, time to peak response was longer and smaller in magnitude in the tibia as tHb increased Δ2.08 ± 0.22 μM and peaked 5.3 min after NO administration and declined quickly but remained elevated (Δ0.87±0.22 μM) at 10 min (p = .01).

CONCLUSIONS

In young adults, the tibial vasculature demonstrates robust NO-mediated vasodilation, but tHb is delayed and diminishes faster compared to LBF, predominately reflective of skeletal muscle responses. Thus, NO-mediated vasodilation in bone may be characteristically different from other vascular beds.

Effects of Sex Hormones on Vascular Reactivity in Boys With Hypospadias

BACKGROUND

Arteries from boys with hypospadias demonstrate hypercontractility and impaired vasorelaxation. The role of sex hormones in these responses in unclear.

AIMS

We compared effects of sex steroids on vascular reactivity in healthy boys and boys with hypospadias.

METHODS

Excess foreskin tissue was obtained from 11 boys undergoing hypospadias repair (cases) and 12 undergoing routine circumcision (controls) (median age [range], 1.5 [1.2-2.7] years) and small resistance arteries were isolated. Vessels were mounted on wire myographs and vascular reactivity was assessed in the absence/presence of 17β-estradiol, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and testosterone.

RESULTS

In controls, testosterone and 17β-estradiol increased contraction (percent of maximum contraction [Emax]: 83.74 basal vs 125.4 after testosterone, P < .0002; and 83.74 vs 110.2 after estradiol, P = .02). 17β-estradiol reduced vasorelaxation in arteries from controls (Emax: 10.6 vs 15.6 to acetylcholine, P < .0001; and Emax: 14.6 vs 20.5 to sodium nitroprusside, P < .0001). In hypospadias, testosterone (Emax: 137.9 vs 107.2, P = .01) and 17β-estradiol (Emax: 156.9 vs 23.6, P < .0001) reduced contraction. Androgens, but not 17β-estradiol, increased endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent vasorelaxation in cases (Emax: 77.3 vs 51.7 with testosterone, P = .02; and vs 48.2 with DHT to acetylcholine, P = .0001; Emax: 43.0 vs 39.5 with testosterone, P = .02; and 39.6 vs 37.5 with DHT to sodium nitroprusside, P = .04).

CONCLUSION

In healthy boys, testosterone and 17β-estradiol promote a vasoconstrictor phenotype, whereas in boys with hypospadias, these sex hormones reduce vasoconstriction, with androgens promoting vasorelaxation. Differences in baseline artery function may therefore be sex hormone-independent and the impact of early-life variations in androgen exposure on vascular function needs further study.

Association of Cumulative Lifetime Exposure to Female Hormones With Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in Postmenopausal Women in the UK Biobank

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Rates of cerebrovascular disease increase after menopause, which is often attributed to the absence of hormones. It remains unknown whether the cumulative exposure to hormones across a female person's premenopausal life extends the window of cerebrovascular protection to the postmenopausal period. To investigate this, we examined the relationship between lifetime hormone exposure (LHE) and cerebral small vessel disease in more than 9,000 postmenopausal women in the UK-Biobank.

METHODS

The cohort consisted of women (aged 40-69 years) who attended one of 22 research centers across the United Kingdom between 2006 and 2010. Women were excluded if they were premenopausal when scanned, had missing reproductive history data, self-reported neurologic disorders, brain cancer, cerebral vascular incidents, head or neurologic injury, and nervous system infection. Endogenous LHE (LHEEndo) was estimated by summing the number of years pregnant (LHEParity) with the duration of the reproductive period (LHECycle = age menopause - age menarche). Exogenous LHE (LHEExo) was estimated by summing the number of years on oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy. Cerebral small vessel disease was determined by estimating white matter hyperintensity volume (WMHV) from T2-fluid-attenuated inversion recovery brain MRI (acquired between 2014 and 2021), normalized to intracranial volume and log-transformed. Multiple linear regressions were used to assess the relationship between LHEEndo on WMHV adjusted for age, cardiovascular risk factors, sociodemographics, and LHEExo.

RESULTS

A total of 9,163 postmenopausal women (age 64.21 ± 6.81 years) were retained for analysis. Average LHEEndo was 39.77 ± 3.59 years. Women with higher LHEEndo showed smaller WMHV (adj-R 2 = 0.307, LHEEndo β = -0.007 [-0.012 to -0.002], p < 0.01). LHEParity and LHECycle were independent contributors to WMHV (adj-R 2 = 0.308, p << 0.001; LHEParity β = -0.022 [-0.042 to -0.002], p < 0.05; LHECycle β = -0.006 [-0.011 to -0.001], p < 0.05). LHEExo was not significantly related to WMHV (LHEExo β = 0.001 [-0.001 to 0.002], p > 0.05).

DISCUSSION

Women with more prolonged exposure to endogenous hormones show relatively smaller burden of cerebral small vessel disease independent of the history of oral contraceptive use or hormone replacement therapy. Our results highlight the critical role endogenous hormones play in female brain health and provide real-world evidence of the protective effects premenopausal endogenous hormone exposure plays on postmenopausal cerebrovascular health.

What can historical literature on von Willebrand disease teach us?

Dr Erik von Willebrand first described a family with bleeding symptoms in a Finnish publication in 1926. A closer look at this landmark publication sheds light on some pathophysiological aspects of von Willebrand disease that may be applicable even in the current era. We attempt to relay in this article how the teachings from this original description may provide a benchmark for further research in this condition.

Stroke vs. Preeclampsia: Dangerous Liaisons of Hypertension and Pregnancy

Stroke during pregnancy and preeclampsia are two distinct but interrelated medical conditions, sharing a common denominator-blood control failure. Along with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypercoagulability, hypertension is undoubtedly a major risk factor associated with stroke. Even though men have higher age-specific stroke rates, women are facing higher life-long stroke risk, primarily due to longer life expectancy. Sex hormones, especially estrogen and testosterone, seem to play a key link in the chain of blood pressure control differences between the genders. Women affected with stroke are more susceptible to experience some atypical stroke manifestations, which might eventually lead to delayed diagnosis establishment, and result in higher morbidity and mortality rates in the population of women. Preeclampsia is a part of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy spectrum, and it is common knowledge that women with a positive history of preeclampsia are at increased stroke risk during their lifetime. Preeclampsia and stroke display similar pathophysiological patterns, including hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, dyslipidemia, hypercoagulability, and cerebral vasomotor reactivity abnormalities. High-risk pregnancies carrying the burden of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy have up to a six-fold higher chance of suffering from stroke. Resemblance shared between placental and cerebral vascular changes, adaptations, and sophisticated auto-regulatory mechanisms are not merely coincidental, but they reflect distinctive and complex cardiovascular performances occurring in the maternal circulatory system during pregnancy. Placental and cerebral malperfusion appears to be in the midline of both of these conditions; placental malperfusion eventually leads to preeclampsia, and cerebral to stoke. Suboptimal performances of the cardiovascular system are proposed as a primary cause of uteroplacental malperfusion. Placental dysfunction is therefore designated as a secondary condition, initiated by the primary disturbances of the cardiovascular system, rather than an immunological disorder associated with abnormal trophoblast invasion. In most cases, with properly and timely applied measures of prevention, stroke is predictable, and preeclampsia is a controllable condition. Understanding the differences between preeclampsia and stroke in pregnancy is vital for healthcare providers to enhance their clinical decision-making strategies, improve patient care, and promote positive maternal and pregnancy outcomes. Management approaches for preeclampsia and stroke require a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, neurologists, and other healthcare professionals.

ICI 182,780 Attenuates Selective Upregulation of Uterine Artery Cystathionine β-Synthase Expression in Rat Pregnancy

Endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) produced by cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine-γ lyase (CSE) has emerged as a novel uterine vasodilator contributing to pregnancy-associated increases in uterine blood flow, which safeguard pregnancy health. Uterine artery (UA) H2S production is stimulated via exogenous estrogen replacement and is associated with elevated endogenous estrogens during pregnancy through the selective upregulation of CBS without altering CSE. However, how endogenous estrogens regulate uterine artery CBS expression in pregnancy is unknown. This study was conducted to test a hypothesis that endogenous estrogens selectively stimulate UA CBS expression via specific estrogen receptors (ER). Treatment with E2β (0.01 to 100 nM) stimulated CBS but not CSE mRNA in organ cultures of fresh UA rings from both NP and P (gestational day 20, GD20) rats, with greater responses to all doses of E2β tested in P vs. NP UA. ER antagonist ICI 182,780 (ICI, 1 µM) completely attenuated E2β-stimulated CBS mRNA in both NP and P rat UA. Subcutaneous injection with ICI 182,780 (0.3 mg/rat) of GD19 P rats for 24 h significantly inhibited UA CBS but not mRNA expression, consistent with reduced endothelial and smooth muscle cell CBS (but not CSE) protein. ICI did not alter mesenteric and renal artery CBS and CSE mRNA. In addition, ICI decreased endothelial nitric oxide synthase mRNA in UA but not in mesenteric or renal arteries. Thus, pregnancy-augmented UA CBS/H2S production is mediated by the actions of endogenous estrogens via specific ER in pregnant rats.

Gender-based research underscores sex differences in biological processes, clinical disorders and pharmacological interventions

Earlier research has presumed that the male and female biology is similar in most organs except the reproductive system, leading to major misconceptions in research interpretations and clinical implications, with serious disorders being overlooked or misdiagnosed. Careful research has now identified sex differences in the cardiovascular, renal, endocrine, gastrointestinal, immune, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems. Also, several cardiovascular, immunological, and neurological disorders have shown differences in prevalence and severity between males and females. Genetic variations in the sex chromosomes have been implicated in several disorders at young age and before puberty. The levels of the gonadal hormones estrogen, progesterone and testosterone and their receptors play a role in the sex differences between adult males and premenopausal women. Hormonal deficiencies and cell senescence have been implicated in differences between postmenopausal and premenopausal women. Specifically, cardiovascular disorders are more common in adult men vs premenopausal women, but the trend is reversed with age with the incidence being greater in postmenopausal women than age-matched men. Gender-specific disorders in females such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension-in-pregnancy and gestational diabetes have attained further research recognition. Other gender-related research areas include menopausal hormone therapy, the "Estrogen Paradox" in pulmonary arterial hypertension being more predominant but less severe in young females, and how testosterone may cause deleterious effects in the kidney while having vasodilator effects in the coronary circulation. This has prompted the National Institutes of Health (NIH) initiative to consider sex as a biological variable in research. The NIH and other funding agencies have provided resources to establish state-of-the-art centers for women health and sex differences in biology and disease in several academic institutions. Scientific societies and journals have taken similar steps to organize specialized conferences and publish special issues on gender-based research. These combined efforts should promote research to enhance our understanding of the sex differences in biological systems beyond just the reproductive system, and provide better guidance and pharmacological tools for the management of various clinical disorders in a gender-specific manner.

Characterizing Factors Influencing Baseline Plasma Biomarkers for Sport-Related Concussion in Adolescents

Abstract Developing objective measures to diagnose sport-related concussion (SRC) is a top priority, particularly in the pediatric context, given the vulnerability of the developing brain. While advances in SRC blood biomarkers are being made in adult populations, less data are available for adolescents. Clinical validation of blood biomarkers post-SRC will first require investigation in a healthy uninjured state. Further, rapid pubertal changes during adolescence may implicate possible interactions with circulating sex hormones and the menstrual cycle for females. This cross-sectional study aimed to characterize pre-injury plasma levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), neurofilament light (NF-L), ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1), total tau (T-tau), and phosphorylated tau-181 (P-tau-181), considering previous concussion, age, and sex in healthy adolescent sport participants. Possible associations with menstrual cycle phase and circulating sex hormone levels (i.e., progesterone, estradiol, testosterone) were also explored. Pre-injury blood samples were obtained from 149 healthy adolescents (48% female, ages 11-18) participating in a larger Surveillance in High Schools and Community Sports to Reduce Concussions and their Consequences (SHRed Concussions) multi-site longitudinal cohort study. Main outcomes were natural log (ln) transformed plasma GFAP, NF-L, UCH-L1, T-tau, and P-tau-181 concentrations, quantified on the Quanterix Simoa HD-X platform. Mixed-effects multi-variable linear regression was used to assess associations between biomarkers and self-reported previous concussion (yes/no), age (years), sex (male/female), objectively determined menstrual cycle phase (follicular/luteal), plasma progesterone, estradiol, and testosterone. Males had 19.8% lower UCH-L1 (β = -0.221, 95% confidence interval [CI; -0.396, -0.046]), 18.9% lower GFAP (β = -0.210, 95% CI [-0.352, -0.068]), and 21.8% higher P-tau-181 (β = 0.197, 95% CI [0.048, 0.346]) compared with females, adjusting for age and previous concussion. GFAP decreased 9.5% with each 1-year increase in age, adjusting for previous concussion and sex (β = -0.100, 95% CI [-0.152, -0.049]). No biomarkers were associated with a history of previous concussion. Exploratory investigations found no associations between biomarkers and menstrual cycle phase. Females displayed an age-adjusted negative association between T-tau and progesterone (β = -0.010, 95% CI [-0.018, -0.002]), whereas males had a negative age-adjusted association between UCH-L1 and testosterone (β = -0.020, 95% CI [-0.037, -0.002]). As such, age- and sex-specific reference intervals may be warranted for pediatric athlete populations prior to clinical validation of blood biomarkers for SRC. Additionally, hormonal associations highlight the need to consider puberty and development in adolescent studies. Overall, findings suggest these biomarkers are resilient to a history of previous concussion and menstrual cycle phase, supporting continued investigation in adolescent SRC.

The Impact of Menopause on Cardiovascular Aging: A Comprehensive Review of Androgen Influences

Menopause represents a critical life stage in women, characterized by hormonal changes that significantly impact cardiovascular health. While the decline in estrogen levels has long been recognized as a major contributor to cardiovascular aging in menopausal women, the role of androgens, particularly testosterone, has gained increasing attention in recent years. This comprehensive review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the impact of menopause on cardiovascular aging, with a specific focus on the influences of androgens. A literature search was conducted to gather relevant studies and clinical evidence exploring the relationship between menopause, androgens, and cardiovascular health. The review integrates findings from various studies to present a holistic view of the topic. The review outlines the changes in hormone levels during menopause and discusses the cardiovascular risk factors associated with this transition. Furthermore, it explores the impact of menopause on cardiovascular structure and function, elucidating the underlying mechanisms that contribute to cardiovascular aging. Androgens' significance in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis is discussed, followed by exploring the effects of androgen decline during menopause on lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity, vascular function, and other cardiovascular parameters. The review delves into the mechanisms of androgen action on the cardiovascular system, emphasizing the role of androgen receptors and the intricate interplay between androgens, estrogens, and other hormones. Clinical evidence supporting the effects of androgens on cardiovascular aging is presented, including studies investigating the association between androgen levels and cardiovascular outcomes. Additionally, the impact of androgen replacement therapy (ART) on cardiovascular risk markers and events in menopausal women is examined, along with controversies and conflicting findings surrounding the use of androgen therapy in cardiovascular aging. This structured review provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of menopause on cardiovascular aging, with a specific focus on the role of androgens. By highlighting the significance of androgens in cardiovascular health during menopause, this review aims to create an initial impression and interest among readers, inviting potential citations in the future. The findings underscore the need for further research and offer insights into managing cardiovascular aging in menopausal women, including lifestyle interventions, pharmacological approaches, and the potential role of personalized medicine and precision therapies.

Acute exposure to artificial light at night alters hippocampal vascular structure in mice

The structure and function of the cardiovascular system are modulated across the day by circadian rhythms, making this system susceptible to circadian rhythm disruption. Recent evidence demonstrated that short-term exposure to a pervasive circadian rhythm disruptor, artificial light at night (ALAN), increased inflammation and altered angiogenic transcripts in the hippocampi of mice. Here, we examined the effects of four nights of ALAN exposure on mouse hippocampal vascular networks. To do this, we analyzed 2D and 3D images of hippocampal vasculature and hippocampal transcriptomic profiles of mice exposed to ALAN. ALAN reduced vascular density in the CA1 and CA2/3 of female mice and the dentate gyrus of male mice. Network structure and connectivity were also impaired in the CA2/3 of female mice. These results demonstrate the rapid and potent effects of ALAN on cerebrovascular networks, highlighting the importance of ALAN mitigation in the context of health and cerebrovascular disease.

Sex hormones impact early maturation and immune response in the arteriovenous fistula mouse model

Arteriovenous fistulae (AVF) fail to mature more frequently in female patients compared with male patients, leading to inferior outcomes and decreased utilization. Since our mouse AVF model recapitulates sex differences in human AVF maturation, we hypothesized that sex hormones mediate these differences during AVF maturation. C57BL/6 mice (9-11 wk) were treated with aortocaval AVF surgery and/or gonadectomy. AVF hemodynamics were measured via ultrasound (days 0-21). Blood was collected for FACS and tissue for immunofluorescence and ELISA (days 3 and 7); wall thickness was assessed by histology (day 21). Inferior vena cava shear stress was higher in male mice (P = 0.0028) after gonadectomy, and they had increased wall thickness (22.0 ± 1.8 vs. 12.7 ± 1.2 µm; P < 0.0001). Conversely, female mice had decreased wall thickness (6.8 ± 0.6 vs. 15.3 ± 0.9 µm; P = 0.0002). Intact female mice had higher proportions of circulating CD3+ T cells on day 3 (P = 0.0043), CD4+ (P = 0.0003) and CD8+ T cells (P = 0.005) on day 7, and CD11b+ monocytes on day 3 (P = 0.0046). After gonadectomy, these differences disappeared. In intact female mice, CD3+ T cells (P = 0.025), CD4+ T cells (P = 0.0178), CD8+ T cells (P = 0.0571), and CD68+ macrophages (P = 0.0078) increased in the fistula wall on days 3 and 7. This disappeared after gonadectomy. Furthermore, female mice had higher IL-10 (P = 0.0217) and TNF-α (P = 0.0417) levels in their AVF walls than male mice. Sex hormones mediate AVF maturation, suggesting that hormone receptor signaling may be a target to improve AVF maturation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY After arteriovenous fistula creation, females have lower rates of maturation and higher rates of failure than males. In a mouse model of venous adaptation that recapitulates human fistula maturation, sex hormones may be mechanisms of the sexual dimorphism: testosterone is associated with reduced shear stress, whereas estrogen is associated with increased immune cell recruitment. Modulating sex hormones or downstream effectors suggests sex-specific therapies and could address disparities in sex differences in clinical outcomes.

Microvascular Skeletal-Muscle Crosstalk in Health and Disease

As an organ system, skeletal muscle is essential for the generation of energy that underpins muscle contraction, plays a critical role in controlling energy balance and insulin-dependent glucose homeostasis, as well as vascular well-being, and regenerates following injury. To achieve homeostasis, there is requirement for "cross-talk" between the myogenic and vascular components and their regulatory factors that comprise skeletal muscle. Accordingly, this review will describe the following: [a] the embryonic cell-signaling events important in establishing vascular and myogenic cell-lineage, the cross-talk between endothelial cells (EC) and myogenic precursors underpinning the development of muscle, its vasculature and the satellite-stem-cell (SC) pool, and the EC-SC cross-talk that maintains SC quiescence and localizes ECs to SCs and angio-myogenesis postnatally; [b] the vascular-myocyte cross-talk and the actions of insulin on vasodilation and capillary surface area important for the uptake of glucose/insulin by myofibers and vascular homeostasis, the microvascular-myocyte dysfunction that characterizes the development of insulin resistance, diabetes and hypertension, and the actions of estrogen on muscle vasodilation and growth in adults; [c] the role of estrogen in utero on the development of fetal skeletal-muscle microvascularization and myofiber hypertrophy required for metabolic/vascular homeostasis after birth; [d] the EC-SC interactions that underpin myofiber vascular regeneration post-injury; and [e] the role of the skeletal-muscle vasculature in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Helicobacter pylori infection selectively attenuates endothelial function in male mice via exosomes-mediated ROS production

Background

Substantial sex differences exist in atherosclerosis. Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation could lead to endothelial dysfunction which is critical to atherosclerosis development and progression. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has been shown to attenuate endothelial function via exosomes-mediated ROS formation. We have demonstrated that H. pylori infection selectively increases atherosclerosis risk in males with unknown mechanism(s). The present study was to test the hypothesis that H. pylori infection impaired endothelial function selectively in male mice through exosome-mediated ROS formation.

Methods and results

Age-matched male and female C57BL/6 mice were infected with CagA+ H. pylori to investigate sex differences in H. pylori infection-induced endothelial dysfunction. H. pylori infection attenuated acetylcholine (ACh)-induced endothelium-dependent aortic relaxation without changing nitroglycerine-induced endothelium-independent relaxation in male but not female mice, associated with increased ROS formation in aorta compared with controls, which could be reversed by N-acetylcysteine treatment. Treatment of cultured mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells with exosomes from H. pylori infected male, not female, mice significantly increased intracellular ROS production and impaired endothelial function with decreased migration, tube formation, and proliferation, which could be prevented with N-acetylcysteine treatment.

Conclusions

H. pylori infection selectively impairs endothelial function in male mice due to exosome-mediated ROS formation.

Genetics of spontaneous cervical and coronary artery dissections

Objectives

Spontaneous cervical artery dissections (SCeAD) and coronary artery dissections (SCoAD) are major causes of neurovascular and cardiovascular morbidity in young adults. Although multiple aspects of their etiology are still unknown, most consensuses are focused on the presence of constitutional genetic aspects and environmental triggers. Since recent evidence of genetic contribution points to a possible overlap between these conditions, we aimed to describe current information on SCeAD and SCoAD genetics and their potential shared pathological aspects.

Materials and methods

A narrative review is presented. Publications in English and Spanish were queried using database search. The articles were evaluated by one team member in terms of inclusion criteria. After collecting, the articles were categorized based on scientific content.

Results

Given that patients with SCeAD and SCoAD rarely present connective tissue disorders, other genetic loci are probably responsible for the increased susceptibility in some individuals. The common variant rs9349379 at PHACTR1 gene is associated with predisposition to pathologies of the arterial wall, likely mediated by variations in Endothelin-1 (ET-1) levels. The risk of arterial dissection may be increased for those who carry the rs9349379(A) allele, associated with lower expression levels of ET-1; however, the local effect of this vasomotor imbalance remains unclear. Sex differences seen in SCeAD and SCoAD support a role for sex hormones that could modulate risk, tilting the delicate balance and forcing vasodilator actions to prevail over vasoconstriction due to a reduction in ET-1 expression.

Conclusions

New evidence points to a common gene variation that could explain dissection in both the cervical and coronary vasculatures. To further confirm the risk conferred by the rs9349379 variant, genome wide association studies are warranted, hopefully in larger and ethnically diverse populations.

Fructose-induced salt-sensitive blood pressure differentially affects sympathetically mediated aortic stiffness in male and female Sprague-Dawley rats

Hypertension is the leading risk factor for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Aortic stiffness and sympathoexcitation are robust predictors of MACE. Combined high fructose and sodium intake increases arterial pressure, aortic stiffness, renin, and sympathetic nerve activity in male rats. We hypothesized that activation of the renin angiotensin system (RAS) and/or the sympathetic system mediates aortic stiffness in rats with fructose-induced salt-sensitive blood pressure. Male and female Sprague-Dawley rats ingested 20% fructose or 20% glucose in drinking water with 0.4% NaCl chow for 1 week. Then, fructose-fed rats were switched to 4% NaCl chow (Fru + HS); glucose-fed rats remained on 0.4% NaCl chow (Glu + NS, controls for caloric intake). After 2 weeks, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and aortic pulsed wave velocity (PWV) were evaluated at baseline or after acute intravenous vehicle, clonidine, enalapril, losartan, or hydrochlorothiazide. Baseline global longitudinal strain (GLS) was also assessed. MAP and PWV were greater in male Fru + HS versus Glu + NS male rats (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). PWV was similar between the female groups. Despite similarly reduced MAP after clonidine, PWV decreased in Fru + HS versus Glu + NS male rats (p < 0.01). Clonidine induced similar decreases in MAP and PWV in females on either diet. GLS was lower in Fru + HS versus Glu + NS male rats and either of the female groups. Thus, acute sympathoinhibition improved aortic compliance in male rats with fructose salt-sensitive blood pressure. Female rats retained aortic compliance regardless of diet. Acute RAS inhibition exerted no significant effects. Male rats on fructose high salt diet displayed an early deficit in myocardial function. Taken together, these findings suggest that adult female rats are protected from the impact of fructose and high salt diet on blood pressure, aortic stiffness, and early left ventricular dysfunction compared with male rats.

The effects of sex and menstrual cycle phase on sympathetic action potential recruitment patterns during hypercapnic-hypoxic apnea

Previously, we demonstrated that integrated muscle sympathetic nerve activity (MSNA) responses to acute chemoreflex stress were augmented during the early follicular (EF) phase of the menstrual cycle relative to both the midluteal (ML) phase and males. These differences were most pronounced in the amplitude component of MSNA, suggesting EF-driven increases in action potential (AP) recruitment in females. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that neural recruitment, quantified as MSNA AP discharge patterns during acute chemoreflex stress, is potentiated during EF. We retrospectively analyzed MSNA data from 9 young males and 7 young females tested during the EF and ML phases at rest and during a voluntary end-inspiratory hypercapnic-hypoxic apnea. Sympathetic AP discharge patterns were analyzed using wavelet-based methodology. Apnea-driven increases in AP frequency and AP content per integrated burst were greater in EF relative to ML (APs/min: P = 0.02; APs/burst: P = 0.03) and to males (APs/min: P = 0.04; APs/burst: P = 0.02). The recruitment of new larger AP clusters was greater in EF than ML (P < 0.01) but not different from males (P = 0.50). Interestingly, we observed a positive association between the magnitude of change in the estrogen/progesterone ratio from EF to ML and the change in AP cluster recruitment, as both decreased from EF to ML (R² = 0.82; P < 0.01). This suggests that the enhanced progesterone dominance over estrogen during ML may blunt the recruitment of new larger APs. Overall, these data indicate that both sex and the menstrual cycle impact AP recruitment patterns in a manner which may be mediated, at least in part, by gonadal hormones.

Dyslipidemia in the first 100 days and the association with acute graft-versus-host disease after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: A single-center retrospective study in China

Dyslipidemia is a common complication after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The interaction between post-transplant hyperlipidemia and acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is uncertain. In this study, we performed a retrospective study to explore the relationship between dyslipidemia and aGVHD and the potential mechanism of aGVHD on dyslipidemia in 147 recipients who underwent allo-HSCT. The lipid profiles, transplantation details, and other laboratory data of the subjects were collected in the first 100 days post-transplantation. Our results indicated 63 patients with new-onset hypertriglyceridemia and 39 patients with new-onset hypercholesterolemia. A total of 57 (38.8%) patients developed aGVHD after transplantation. In a multifactorial analysis, aGVHD was an independent factor in the development of dyslipidemia in recipients (P < 0.05). After transplantation, the median LDL-C level of patients with aGVHD was 3.04 mmol/L (standard deviation value (SD): 1.36 mmol/L, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.62, 3.45 mmol/L), and the LDL-C level in patients without aGVHD was 2.51 mmol/L (SD: 1.38 mmol/L, CI: 2.67, 3.40 mmol/L) (P < 0.05). Female recipients had higher lipid levels than males (P < 0.05). LDL levels (≥ 3.4 mmol/L) post-transplant were an independent risk factor for the development of aGVHD (OR = 0.311, P < 0.05). In conclusion, larger sample studies are anticipated to confirm our preliminary result, and an accurate mechanism between lipid metabolism and aGVHD needs to be determined in the future.

Association between hormone therapy and short-term cardiovascular events in women with spontaneous coronary artery dissection

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Changes in sex hormone levels are a known triggering factor for spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) in women. However, it is unknown whether exposure to exogenous hormone therapy (HT) at the time of SCAD presentation modifies the clinical course of this condition. We investigated the association between HT in female patients presenting with SCAD and short-term clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We enrolled consecutive patients presenting with SCAD from the DISCO-IT/SPA (dissezioni spontanee coronariche Italian-Spanish) registry. Women on HT (estrogens, progestagens, or gonadotropins) at the time of presentation were identified, and their clinical characteristics and short-term outcomes were compared with those not receiving active HT. The outcome measure was nonfatal myocardial infarction and/or unplanned percutaneous coronary intervention during the first 28 days after the index catheterization.

RESULTS

Of 224 women presenting with SCAD (mean age 52.0±10.0 years), 39 (17.4%) were currently using HT while 185 (82.6%) were not. No significant differences were noted in the baseline demographics, clinical presentation, angiographic features, or initial treatment received between the 2 groups. All patients on systemic HT (n=36, 92%) discontinued it at the time of diagnosis. The composite outcome occurred in 7 (17.9%) patients with prior HT compared with 14 (7.6%) without (P=.039). After multivariable adjustment, HT remained associated with the composite outcome recorded in the first 28 days of follow-up (HR, 3.53; 95%CI, 1.30-9.61; P=.013).

CONCLUSIONS

In women with SCAD, exposure to HT at the time of clinical presentation was associated with short-term recurrent cardiovascular events such as nonfatal myocardial infarction and/or unplanned percutaneous revascularization.

Apolipoprotein C3 is negatively associated with estrogen and mediates the protective effect of estrogen on hypertriglyceridemia in obese adults

BACKGROUND

Both estrogen and apolipoprotein C3 (ApoC3) play crucial roles in lipid metabolism. But the link between them remains unclear, and it is unknown whether estrogen regulates triglyceride (TG) levels via ApoC3. Researchers hypothesized that estrogen exerts a regulatory effect on ApoC3 metabolism, and that this regulation could play a significant role in lipid metabolism. To explore this potential link, the present investigation aimed to examine the associations between estradiol (E2), ApoC3, and TG levels in both males and females.

METHODS

A total of 519 obese people (133 males and 386 premenopausal females) were recruited. Based on their TG levels, the participants were split into two groups [hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) group: TG ≥ 1.7 mmol/L; control group: TG < 1.7 mmol/L]. Serum ApoC3, E2, and TG levels were measured and compared in those two groups for both sexes separately. To ascertain the connection among E2, ApoC3, and TG, linear regression and mediation analysis were used.

RESULTS

Participants in the HTG group presented higher levels of ApoC3 (P < 0.001). In contrast, they tend to have lower E2 levels than the control. Linear regression analysis proposed that in both sexes, E2 was negatively associated with ApoC3 levels. The relationship remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors (male: standardized β = -0.144, t = -2.392, P < 0.05; female: standardized β = -0.077, t = -2.360, P < 0.001). Furthermore, mediation analysis revealed the relationship between reduced E2 levels and elevated TG levels is directly mediated by ApoC3.

CONCLUSIONS

In obese men and premenopausal women, ApoC3 was negatively and linearly correlated with serum E2 levels. The findings showed that estrogen may suppress ApoC3 expression and thus lower TG levels.

Saliva Cortisol as a Biomarker of Injury in Youth Sport-Related Concussion

Increasing rates of sport-related concussion (SRC) in youth impose a significant burden on public health systems and the lives of young athletes. Accurate prediction for those likely to develop persistent post-concussion symptomology (PPCS) using a fluid biomarker, reflecting both acute injury and recovery processes, would provide the opportunity for early intervention. Cortisol, a stress hormone released through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis following injury, may provide a missing physiological link to clinical recovery. This cohort study investigated the change in saliva cortisol following SRC and the association between cortisol and symptom burden in pediatric ice hockey players. Further, the association between cortisol levels and medical clearance to return to play was explored. In total, cortisol samples from 233 players were included; 165 athletes (23.6% female) provided pre-injury saliva and 68 athletes (19.1% female) provided post-SRC saliva samples for cortisol analysis. Quantile (median) regressions were used to compare cortisol between pre-injury and post-SRC groups, and the association between total symptoms (/22) and symptom severity scores (/132) reported on the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT)3/SCAT5 and post-SRC cortisol (adjusting for age, sex, history of concussion, and time from injury to sample collection). Results demonstrated significantly lower saliva cortisol in post-SRC athletes compared with the pre-injury group (β = -0.62, 95% confidence interval [CI; -1.08, -0.16], p = 0.009). Post-SRC cortisol was not significantly associated with the SCAT3/SCAT5 symptom totals or symptom severity scores; however, females were found to report more symptoms (β = 6.95, 95% CI [0.35, 13.55], p = 0.040) and greater symptom severity (β = 23.87, 95% CI [9.58, 38.15], p = 0.002) compared with males. Exploratory time-to-event analysis revealed a point estimate suggesting a potential association between low cortisol levels and days to medical clearance to return to play. Although preliminary, these findings suggest that the HPA axis may be dysregulated post-SRC. Further, our exploratory analysis and case presentation of post-injury outliers highlight the need to further research cortisol as a prognostic biomarker to inform individualized sex-specific care after SRC.

The Effect of Biological Sex on Arterial Stiffness and Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Activity in Response to Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) Inhibition

Background

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally. Cyclooxygenase (COX)-derived prostaglandins play an important role in cardiovascular health regulation. Animal studies suggest a greater vascular dependence on prostaglandins in female subjects, but whether this extends to humans is unknown. We aimed to assess the effect of COX-2 inhibition on blood pressure and arterial stiffness, validated markers of cardiovascular risk, in human adults.

Methods

Healthy premenopausal females and males were studied in high-salt balance before and after 14 days of daily oral celecoxib, 200 mg ingestion, on 2 identical study days. Blood pressure (BP) and pulse-wave velocity (PWV) were measured at baseline and in response to an Angiotensin II (AngII) challenge, a validated marker of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activity.

Results

Thirteen females (age [mean ± standard deviation], 38 ± 13 years) and 11 males (age, 34 ± 9 years) were studied. Pre-COX-2 inhibition, resting measures of systolic (S)BP (P = 0.2) and diastolic (D)BP (P = 0.1) were similar between sexes. Post-COX-2 inhibition, resting SBP (P < 0.001) and DBP (P = 0.02) were significantly lower in females than in males. COX-2 inhibition was not associated with changes in arterial parameters by sex (change in DBP: P = 0.54; change in PWV: P = 0.55; females vs males). COX-2 inhibition was associated with increased SBP (P = 0.039 vs pre-COX-2 inhibition), but no change in DBP (P = 0.16) or PWV (P = 0.52) response to AngII challenge in females. Measures did not differ in response to AngII pre- vs post-COX-2 inhibition in males (SBP: P = 0.88; DBP: P = 0.93; PWV: P = 0.97).

Conclusions

The effects of COX-2 inhibition on arterial function may differ by sex, but further studies are needed. Given the association between nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and cardiovascular risk, increased attention regarding sex-specific pathophysiology is warranted.

Blood Flow Turbulence Quantification of Carotid Artery With a High-Frame Rate Vector Flow Imaging

OBJECTIVES

To assess the feasibility and performance of Turbulence (Tur) index as a quantitative tool for carotid artery flow turbulence; to detect and compare the blood flow patterns of common carotid artery (CCA) and carotid bulb (CB) at different ages and cardiac phases in healthy adults, and thus interpret the evolvement of etiology difference between CCA and CB.

METHODS

Carotid flow characteristics of 40 healthy volunteers were evaluated quantitatively by a high-frame rate vector flow imaging. Three types of flow patterns were defined depending on the distributive range of complex flow during systole in CB. Comparison of mean Tur value in CCA and CB at different age groups and cardiac phases was performed. And the correlation between Tur value and the diameter ratio of proximal internal carotid artery to common carotid artery (DRpro-ica/cca) was tested.

RESULTS

Mean Tur values in CB were remarkably higher than that in CCA, whether during systole or diastole (P < .001). Meanwhile Tur values in CB during systole were significantly higher than that during diastole (P < .001). Flow complexity of CB showed variations among 40 participants especially in systole, whereas the flow pattern of CCA was relatively consistent. Mean Tur values were positively correlated with DRpro-ica/cca in CB (ρ = 0.69, P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

V Flow imaging provided a reliable method-Tur, for quantitative analysis of carotid blood flow. It had potential to be further applied in distinguishing complex hemodynamic characteristics in high-risk people of carotid diseases for the risk stratification of cardiovascular events.

Acute beetroot juice consumption does not alter cerebral autoregulation or cardiovagal baroreflex sensitivity during lower-body negative pressure in healthy adults

Introduction

Beetroot juice (BRJ) improves peripheral endothelial function and vascular compliance, likely due to increased nitric oxide bioavailability. It is unknown if BRJ alters cerebrovascular function and cardiovagal baroreflex control in healthy individuals.

Purpose

We tested the hypotheses that BRJ consumption improves cerebral autoregulation (CA) and cardiovagal baroreflex sensitivity (cBRS) during lower-body negative pressure (LBNP).

Methods

Thirteen healthy adults (age: 26 ± 4 years; 5 women) performed oscillatory (O-LBNP) and static LBNP (S-LBNP) before (PRE) and 3 h after consuming 500 mL of BRJ (POST). Participants inhaled 3% CO2 (21% O2, 76% N2) during a 5 min baseline and throughout LBNP to attenuate reductions in end-tidal CO2 tension (PETCO2). O-LBNP was conducted at ∼0.02 Hz for six cycles (-70 mmHg), followed by a 3-min recovery before S-LBNP (-40 mmHg) for 7 min. Beat-to-beat middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv) (transcranial Doppler) and blood pressure were continuously recorded. CA was assessed using transfer function analysis to calculate coherence, gain, and phase in the very-low-frequency (VLF; 0.020-0.070 Hz) and low-frequency bands (LF; 0.07-0.20 Hz). cBRS was calculated using the sequence method. Comparisons between POST vs. PRE are reported as mean ± SD.

Results

During O-LBNP, coherence VLF was greater at POST (0.55 ± 0.06 vs. 0.46 ± 0.08; P < 0.01), but phase VLF (P = 0.17) and gain VLF (P = 0.69) were not different. Coherence LF and phase LF were not different, but gain LF was lower at POST (1.03 ± 0.20 vs. 1.12 ± 0.30 cm/s/mmHg; P = 0.05). During S-LBNP, CA was not different in the VLF or LF bands (all P > 0.10). Up-cBRS and Down-cBRS were not different during both LBNP protocols.

Conclusion

These preliminary data indicate that CA and cBRS during LBNP in healthy, young adults is largely unaffected by an acute bolus of BRJ.