Angiotensin-Neprilysin Inhibition and Renal Outcomes in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

Sacubitril/valsartan in a wide spectrum of heart failure patients (from mechanisms of action to outcomes in specific populations)

Heart failure (HF) represents a significant global health challenge, characterized by high morbidity and mortality rates, decreased quality of life and a significant financial and economic burden. The prevalence of HF continues to rise, driven by an ageing population and an increasing burden of comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes and obesity. Understanding the complex pathophysiology and developing effective treatments are critical for improving patient outcomes, yet the range of effective, life-prolonging medication classes has remained mostly constant in the last few decades. The introduction of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) was a major breakthrough in HF management, for the first time targeting the natriuretic peptide system in addition to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone pathway to potentiate the effects of older drug classes. ARNI shows superiority in clinical outcomes compared to previous guideline-directed therapies, especially in patients with reduced ejection fraction (EF). It has now been implemented into international guidelines, endorsing its use in patients with HF and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and HF with mildly reduced ejection fraction (HFmrEF). This review summarises the mechanism of action of Sac/Val, presents key clinical trials in a range of patient populations and HF aetiologies and outlines gaps in knowledge and potential novel uses of Sac/Val.

Systolic Blood Pressure and Pulse Pressure in Heart Failure: Pooled Participant-Level Analysis of 4 Trials

BACKGROUND

Hypertension is common in patients with heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF), and current guidelines recommend treating systolic blood pressure (SBP) to a target <130 mm Hg. However, data supporting treatment to this target are limited. Additionally, pulse pressure (PP), a marker of aortic stiffness, has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events, but its prognostic impact in HFpEF has not been extensively studied.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to explore the impact of baseline SBP and PP on cardiovascular outcomes in patients with HFmrEF or HFpEF.

METHODS

The I-PRESERVE (Irbesartan in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction), TOPCAT (Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist)-Americas, PARAGON-HF (Prospective Comparison of Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor With Angiotensin-Receptor Blocker Global Outcomes in HF With Preserved Ejection Fraction), and DELIVER (Dapagliflozin Evaluation to Improve the Lives of Patients With Preserved Ejection Fraction Heart Failure) trials were global, randomized clinical trials testing irbesartan, spironolactone, sacubitril/valsartan, and dapagliflozin, respectively, against either a placebo or an active comparator (valsartan, in PARAGON-HF), in patients with heart failure and a left ventricular ejection fraction ≥40% (in DELIVER) or ≥45% (in the other trials). The relationship between continuous baseline SBP and PP, and the primary endpoint (first heart failure hospitalization or cardiovascular death) was analyzed with restricted cubic splines. We further evaluated the prognostic impact of SBP categories (<120, 120-129, 130-139, and ≥140 mm Hg) and PP quartiles on the primary endpoint.

RESULTS

A total of 16,950 patients (mean age 71 ± 9 years; 49% male; mean SBP 131 ± 15 mm Hg; mean PP 55 ± 14 mm Hg) were included. The relationship between SBP and the primary endpoint was J-shaped, with the lowest risk at 120 to 130 mm Hg. A similar pattern was found for PP, with the lowest risk at 50 to 60 mm Hg. The highest SBP category (reference: 120-129 mm Hg) and PP quartile (reference: 46-54 mm Hg) were associated with a higher risk of the primary outcome (HR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.10-1.34 and HR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.11-1.34, respectively). Higher PP was associated with greater cardiovascular risk, regardless of SBP.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis of a large pooled dataset from 4 clinical trials, including >16,900 patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF, indicates a J-shaped relationship between both SBP and PP and cardiovascular risk. The lowest risk was observed at SBP levels between 120 and 130 mm Hg and PP values between 50 and 60 mm Hg (I-PRESERVE [Irbesartan in Heart Failure With Preserved Systolic Function], NCT00095238; TOPCAT [Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure With an Aldosterone Antagonist], NCT00094302; PARAGON-HF [Efficacy and Safety of LCZ696 Compared to Valsartan, on Morbidity and Mortality in Heart Failure Patients With Preserved Ejection Fraction], NCT01920711; DELIVER [Dapagliflozin Evaluation to Improve the LIVEs of Patients With PReserved Ejection Fraction Heart Failure], NCT03619213).

Standardized Definitions of Changes in Kidney Function in Trials of Heart Failure: JACC Expert Panel From the HF-ARC

Perturbations in kidney function are frequently encountered in heart failure (HF) across its spectrum in both chronic and acute settings with distinct implications for patient management and prognosis. Lack of consensus on the threshold for clinically meaningful changes in kidney function has led to heterogeneity in the clinical characteristics and background therapies of individuals enrolled in clinical trials, and in multiple aspects of trial design. A meaningful and collaborative interaction among the disciplines of cardiology and nephrology, clinical trialists, industry sponsors, and regulatory agencies is vital to the development of standardized definitions of changes in kidney function across HF settings. To achieve this critically important objective, the Heart Failure Collaboratory assembled experts in HF and nephrology, including key stakeholders in the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and industry, with the goal of developing initial recommendations for improved standardization of design and conduct of clinical trials in HF. Recommendations included how and when to measure baseline and changes in kidney function, discouraging the use of the term "acute kidney injury," and the consideration of urinary markers in the assessment of kidney function.

Finerenone and Kidney Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure: The FINEARTS-HF Trial

BACKGROUND

Finerenone has kidney-protective effects in patients with chronic kidney disease with type 2 diabetes, but effects on kidney outcomes in patients with heart failure with and without diabetes and/or chronic kidney disease are not known.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of finerenone on kidney outcomes in FINEARTS-HF (Finerenone Trial to Investigate Efficacy and Safety Superior to Placebo in Patients With Heart Failure), a randomized trial of finerenone vs placebo among patients with heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction.

METHODS

We explored the effects of finerenone on the secondary outcome of a sustained ≥50% estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline or kidney failure (sustained eGFR decline <15 mL/min/1.73 m2; initiation of maintenance dialysis; renal transplantation). In this prespecified analysis, we also report effects of finerenone on: 1) sustained ≥57% eGFR decline or kidney failure; 2) eGFR slope; and 3) changes in urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR).

RESULTS

Among 6,001 participants, mean baseline eGFR was 62 ± 20 mL/min/1.73 m2; 48% had eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Overall, 5,797 had baseline UACR data (median: 18 mg/g [Q1-Q3: 7-67 mg/g]). Over 2.6 years median follow-up, the incidence of the composite kidney outcome (≥50% eGFR decline or kidney failure) was numerically, but nonsignificantly, higher for finerenone vs placebo (75 vs 55 events; HR: 1.33; 95% CI: 0.94-1.89). Similar results were observed for the composite of ≥57% eGFR decline or kidney failure (41 vs 31 events; HR: 1.28; 95% CI: 0.80-2.05), although the overall event frequency was relatively low. During the first 3 months, finerenone led to an acute decline in eGFR of -2.9 mL/min/1.73 m2 (95% CI: -3.4 to -2.4 mL/min/1.73 m2) but did not alter chronic (from 3 months) eGFR slope (+0.2 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year; 95% CI: -0.1 to 0.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year), vs placebo. The difference in total slope was -0.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year (95% CI: -0.9 to -0.4 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year.). Finerenone reduced UACR by 30% (95% CI: 25%-34%) over 6 months vs placebo, an effect that persisted throughout follow-up. Finerenone reduced the risk of new-onset of microalbuminuria and macroalbuminuria by 24% (HR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.68-0.83) and 38% (HR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.53-0.73), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

In FINEARTS-HF, a population at low risk of adverse kidney outcomes, finerenone did not significantly modify the kidney composite outcomes. Finerenone led to a greater reduction in initial eGFR, but did not result in a significant difference in chronic eGFR slope vs placebo. Finerenone led to early and sustained reductions in albuminuria and reduced the risk of new-onset micro- and macroalbuminuria. (FINEARTS-HF [Study to Evaluate the Efficacy (Effect on Disease) and Safety of Finerenon on Morbidity (Events Indicating Disease Worsening) & Mortality (Death Rate) in Participants with Heart Failure and Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (Proportion of Blood Expelled Per Heart Stroke) Greater or Equal to 40%]; NCT04435626).

Potential renoprotective effects and possible underlying mechanisms of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors in cardiorenal syndrome

Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) represent a novel class of medications characterized by their dual action on major cardiorenal regulators, specifically the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and the natriuretic peptide (NP) system. Sacubitril/valsartan, a pioneering ARNI, has demonstrated strong antihypertensive effect as well as superior efficacy in preserving renal function compared to RAS inhibitors in heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction. Here, we gathered evidence on the impact of sacubitril/valsartan on the preservation of kidney function in patients with cardiorenal syndrome (CRS). In particular, we present a comprehensive summary of the latest advancements and findings from clinical trials, studies, and meta-analyses on the impact of ARNIs in maintaining or improving renal function. We also discussed the pre-clinical evidence supporting the use of sacubitril/valsartan for improving renal function, along with the underlying molecular mechanisms in animal models mimicking various clinical scenarios. Altogether, the analysis of published data from both pre-clinical and clinical studies provides substantial support for the usefulness of ARNIs in enhancing renal protection in subjects with CRS.

Sacubitril/valsartan reduces incident anaemia and iron therapy utilization in heart failure: The PARAGON-HF trial

AIMS

Renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) have been shown to lower haemoglobin levels, potentially related to reductions in erythropoietin levels and haematopoiesis. We examined whether sacubitril/valsartan might attenuate this effect of RASi alone on incident anaemia in patients with heart failure (HF) with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction (HFmrEF/HFpEF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

PARAGON-HF was a global, multicentre randomized clinical trial of sacubitril/valsartan versus the RASi valsartan in patients with HF and left ventricular ejection fraction ≥45%. We evaluated haemoglobin trajectory and risks of incident anaemia and new iron therapy initiation during follow-up. Among 4795 participants, 1111 (23.2%) had anaemia at randomization and 5.6% were treated with iron at baseline. Over a median follow-up of 2.9 years, patients with anaemia were at significantly higher risk for total HF hospitalizations and cardiovascular death, compared with those without anaemia (21.6 vs. 11.5 per 100 patient-years; adjusted rate ratio 1.31; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.12-1.54; p = 0.001). Sacubitril/valsartan slightly slowed the decline in haemoglobin levels by 0.1 g/dl (95% CI 0.0-0.2 g/dl; p = 0.005). Participants treated with sacubitril/valsartan were at significantly lower risk of developing anaemia (30.3% vs. 37.6%; hazard ratio [HR] 0.76; 95% CI 0.68-0.85; p < 0.001) and starting iron therapy (8.1% vs. 10.0%; HR 0.81; 95% CI 0.67-0.97; p = 0.026). Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan on total HF hospitalizations and cardiovascular death were consistent among patients across the haemoglobin spectrum (pinteraction = 0.60).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients with HFmrEF/HFpEF, treatment with sacubitril/valsartan resulted in modestly smaller declines in haemoglobin, lower rates of incident anaemia, and fewer new initiations of iron therapy compared with RASi.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT01920711.

Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibition and Cardiovascular Outcomes Across the Kidney Function Spectrum: The PARAGON-HF Trial

BACKGROUND

Lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) may be one of the major reasons for hesitation or failure to initiate potentially beneficial therapies in patients with heart failure (HF).

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to assess if the effects of sacubitril/valsartan (vs valsartan) on cardiovascular outcomes differ according to baseline kidney function in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction.

METHODS

The PARAGON-HF (Prospective Comparison of ARNI with ARB Global Outcomes in HF with Preserved Ejection Fraction) trial was global clinical trial of 4,796 patients with chronic HF and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≥45% randomly assigned to sacubitril/valsartan or valsartan. We examined the effect of treatment on cardiovascular outcomes using Cox regression models, stratified by region, and assessed for differential treatment effects according to the baseline eGFR and ejection fraction.

RESULTS

At randomization, mean eGFR was 67 ± 19 mL/min/1.73 m2; 1,955 (41%) participants had an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2. Compared with valsartan, sacubitril/valsartan reduced the primary cardiovascular outcome (cardiovascular death and total HF hospitalizations) to a greater extent among those with lower baseline eGFR (P interaction = 0.07 for continuous eGFR), and was most pronounced for those with eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (RR: 0.69; 95% CI: 0.51-0.94). The influence of eGFR on the treatment effect for cardiovascular death was nonlinear, with the most pronounced treatment effect for those with baseline eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.43-0.97). In further subgroup analyses according to LVEF and eGFR, the treatment effect for the primary outcome was most pronounced among those with LVEF ≤57% and eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m2 (HR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.45-0.97).

CONCLUSIONS

In the PARAGON-HF trial, the benefits of sacubitril/valsartan to reduce the frequency of HF hospitalizations and cardiovascular death were most apparent in patients with lower baseline eGFR and lower ejection fraction. (Efficacy and Safety of LCZ696 Compared to Valsartan, on Morbidity and Mortality in Heart Failure Patients With Preserved Ejection Fraction [PARAGON-HF]; NCT01920711).

Visit-to-visit changes in heart rate in heart failure: A pooled participant-level analysis of the PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF trials

AIMS

Resting heart rate (HR) is a strong risk marker in patients with heart failure (HF), but the clinical implications of visit-to-visit changes in HR (ΔHR) are less well established. We aimed to explore the association between ΔHR and subsequent outcomes in a pooled dataset of two well-characterized cohorts of patients with HF across the full range of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF were randomized trials testing sacubitril/valsartan versus enalapril or valsartan, respectively, in patients with HF and LVEF ≤40% (PARADIGM-HF) or LVEF ≥45% (PARAGON-HF). We analysed the association between ΔHR from the preceding visit with the primary endpoint of HF hospitalization (HFH) or cardiovascular death using covariate-adjusted Cox proportional hazards models. A total of 13 194 patients (mean age 67 ± 11 years, 67% men, mean LVEF 40 ± 15%) were included. Over a median follow-up of 2.5 years, 3114 patients experienced a first HFH or cardiovascular death event (10.4 events per 100 patient-years). An increase in HR from the preceding visit, compared with no change, was associated with a higher risk (hazard ratio 1.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10-1.15; p < 0.001 per 5 bpm increase). Conversely, a drop in HR was associated with a lower risk (hazard ratio 0.97; 95% CI 0.94-1.00; p = 0.044 per 5 bpm drop). The prognostic implications of ΔHR were consistent across the range of LVEF and observed regardless of β-blocker use or presence of a permanent pacemaker. Visit-to-visit increases in HR were especially prognostic in patients without atrial fibrillation (pinteraction = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Across a broad spectrum of patients with chronic HF, increases in HR from a preceding visit independently predicted clinical outcomes. The detection of notable increases in HR between outpatient visits may help identify patients at heightened risk of adverse events.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01035255 (PARADIGM-HF), NCT01920711 (PARAGON-HF).

Kidney Outcomes in Transthyretin Amyloid Cardiomyopathy

Importance

Transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) is a progressive cardiomyopathy that commonly presents with concomitant chronic kidney disease. Chronic kidney dysfunction is associated with worse outcomes, but the prognostic value of changes in kidney function over time has yet to be defined.

Objective

To assess the prognostic importance of a decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in a large cohort of patients with ATTR-CM.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective, observational, single-center cohort study evaluated patients diagnosed with ATTR-CM at the National Amyloidosis Centre (NAC) in the UK who underwent an eGFR baseline assessment and a follow-up assessment at 1 year between January 2000 and April 2024. Data analysis was performed in June 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was the risk of all-cause mortality associated with decline in kidney function (defined as a decrease in eGFR >20%).

Results

Among 2001 patients, mean (SD) age was 75.5 (8.4) years, and 263 patients (13.1%) were female. The median (IQR) change in eGFR was -5 mlL/min/1.73 m2 (-12 to 1), and 481 patients (24.0%) experienced decline in kidney function. Patients who experienced decline in kidney function more often had the p.(V142I) genotype than patients with stable kidney function (99 [20.6%] vs 202 [13.3%]; P < .001) and had a more severe cardiac phenotype at baseline, as evidenced by higher median (IQR) concentrations of serum cardiac biomarkers (N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide [NT-proBNP]: 2949 pg/mL [1759-5182] vs 2309 pg/mL [1146-4290]; P < .001; troponin T: 0.060 ng/mL [0.042-0.086] vs 0.052 ng/mL [0.033-0.074]; P < .001), while baseline median (IQR) kidney function was similar between the 2 groups (eGFR: 63 mL/min/1.73 m2 [51-77] vs 61 mL/min/1.73 m2 [49-77]; P = .41). Decline in kidney function was associated with a 1.7-fold higher risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.71; 95% CI, 1.43-2.04; P < .001), with a similar risk across the 3 genotypes (wild type: HR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.31-2.04; p.(V142I): HR, 1.70; 95% CI, 1.21-2.39; non-p.(V142I): HR, 1.51; 95% CI, 0.87-2.61) (P for interaction = .93) and the 3 NAC disease stages (stage 1: HR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.22-2.32; stage 2: HR, 1.69; 95% CI, 1.30-2.18; stage 3: HR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.11-2.35) (P for interaction = .97). Decline in kidney function remained independently associated with mortality after adjusting for increases in NT-proBNP and outpatient diuretic intensification (HR, 1.48; 95% CI, 1.23-2.76; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this retrospective cohort study, decline in kidney function was frequent in patients with ATTR-CM and was consistently associated with an increased risk of mortality, even after adjusting for established markers of worsening ATTR-CM. eGFR decline represents an independent marker of ATTR-CM disease progression that could guide treatment optimization in clinical practice.

Sacubitril/Valsartan for Blood Pressure Lowering in Non-Dialysis-Dependent Chronic Kidney Disease Stage 3-5 Patients With Hypertension: A Multicenter Clinical Study

To assess the effectiveness and safety of Sacubitril/Valsartan in reducing blood pressure in individuals with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease (NDD-CKD) Stage 3-5 complicated by hypertension. This study was a multicenter retrospective analysis conducted from March 1, 2022 to March 31, 2024, involving adult patients with NDD-CKD Stage 3-5 and hypertension, who received Sacubitril/Valsartan either as a monotherapy or in addition to current antihypertensive treatments that were insufficient. The main outcomes measured were blood pressure control, changes in blood pressure and laboratory parameters within 8 weeks post-treatment initiation, and incidence of adverse events. The study included a total of 459 individuals with NDD-CKD Stage 3-5 and hypertension. At the study endpoint, mean systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and pulse pressure were markedly reduced compared to baseline (all p < 0.001). The average blood pressure reductions were 12.17 (4.66, 22.00), 6.00 (0.67, 12.66), and 6.67 (0.08, 14.00) mmHg, respectively. Throughout the study period, 96 patients (20.92%) with NDD-CKD Stage 3-5 developed worsening renal function, 15 patients (3.27%) developed hyperkalemia, and 49 patients (10.68%) experienced symptomatic hypotension. Overall, there were no significant differences in the changes in serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and serum potassium before and after treatment (p = 0.28, p = 0.91, p = 0.61, respectively). Sacubitril/Valsartan significantly lowers blood pressure in patients with NDD-CKD Stage 3-5 complicated by hypertension, with good safety profiles. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: ChiCTR2400086079.

Clinical and proteomic profiles of chronic kidney disease in heart failure with reduced and preserved ejection fraction

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is prevalent and related to poor clinical outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF). The pathophysiology of CKD in HF with a reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and HF with a preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is not well defined. In this study we compared clinical and proteomic profiles of CKD between patients with HFrEF and HFpEF.

METHODS

We included 478 patients of the Scottish BIOSTAT-CHF cohort, of which 246 had HFrEF and 232 had HFpEF. CKD was defined as an eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m2. We compared HFrEF-patients with CKD to HFpEF-patients with CKD using logistic- and Cox-regression. We performed a differential expression analysis using 6376 proteins.

RESULTS

The prevalence of CKD was 36 % and 32 % in patients with HFpEF and HFrEF, respectively. CKD patients were on average 7 years older. BMI, higher NT-proBNP, ACE-inhibitors, HDL-cholesterol and Stroke were associated with CKD- patients with HFrEF. In HFpEF, CKD was associated with MRA-use and higher platelet count. CKD was associated with increased risk of death or heart failure hospitalization (HR 1.82, p < 0.001), with similar effect in HFrEF and HFpEF. The pattern of differentially expressed proteins between patients with and without CKD was similar in both HF-groups.

CONCLUSION

Clinical profiles related to CKD- patients with HFrEF were different from CKD-patients with HFrEF. CKD was associated with an increased risk of death or heart failure hospitalization, which was not different between HFpEF and HFrEF. Patterns of circulating proteins were similar between CKD-patients with HFpEF and HFrEF, suggesting no major differences in CKD-pathophysiology.

The role of sacubitril/valsartan in abnormal renal function patients combined with heart failure: a meta-analysis and systematic analysis

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan in abnormal renal function (eGFR < 60 ml/min/1.73m2) patients combined with heart failure based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies.

METHODS

The Embase, PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies from inception to December 2023. Dichotomous variables were described as event counts with the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) values. Continuous variables were expressed as mean standard deviation (SD) with 95% CIs.

RESULTS

A total of 6 RCTs and 8 observational studies were included, involving 17335 eGFR below 60 ml/min/1.73m2 patients combined with heart failure. In terms of efficacy, we analyzed the incidence of cardiovascular events and found that sacubitril/valsartan significantly reduced the risk of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalization in chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3-5 patients with heart failure (OR: 0.65, 95%CI: 0.54-0.78). Moreover, sacubitril/valsartan prevented the serum creatinine elevation (OR: 0.81, 95%CI: 0.68-0.95), the eGFR decline (OR: 0.83, 95% CI: 0.73-0.95) and the development of end-stage renal disease in this population (OR:0.73, 95%CI:0.60-0.89). As for safety outcomes, we did not find that the rate of hyperkalemia (OR:1.31, 95%CI:0.79-2.17) and hypotension (OR:1.57, 95%CI:0.94-2.62) were increased in sacubitril/valsartan group among CKD stages 3-5 patients with heart failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis proves that sacubitril/valsartan has a favorable effect on cardiac function without obvious risk of adverse events in abnormal renal function patients combined with heart failure, indicating that sacubitril/valsartan has the potential to become perspective treatment for these patients.

Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor in Heart Failure Patients With Renal Dysfunction

Heart failure (HF) and renal dysfunction often coexist and interact in many complex and bidirectional pathways, leading to detrimental effects on patient outcomes. The treatment of HF patients with renal dysfunction presents a significant clinical challenge. Interestingly, sacubitril/valsartan, an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), may have beneficial effects on cardiac and renal outcomes in patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction, particularly by slowing the rate of decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate compared to a single angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor. Recently, more reports have emphasized the renal protection of sacubitril/valsartan in patients with HF. In HF patients with renal dysfunction, however, there is no strong evidence supporting the use of sacubitril/valsartan to reduce the absolute risk of hyperkalemia and worsening renal function; therefore, the administration of ARNI requires a careful balance between the benefits and risks. Furthermore, the lack of evidence-based management highlights the importance of an individualized approach based on published experience and multidisciplinary collaborations, as well as underlines the need for in-depth studies investigating the underlying mechanisms in cardiorenal interactions with a focus on treatments.

Cardiovascular and non-renal complications of chronic kidney disease: Managing risk

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) currently affects approximately 850 million people globally and is continuing to increase in prevalence as well as in importance as a cause of death. The excess mortality related to CKD is mostly caused by an increase in cardiovascular disease. This includes atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease as many promoters of atherosclerosis, such as blood pressure, lipid levels and hypercoagulation, are increased in people with CKD. Diabetes is a leading cause of CKD contributing to the risk of CVD, and obesity is also increasingly prevalent. Management of these risk factors is therefore very important in CKD, and to reduce risk of CKD progression. Heart failure is also more prevalent in CKD and, again, many risk factors are shared. The concept of foundational pillars in the management of heart failure has been adapted to the treatment of CKD, with many organ-protective interventions, such renin-angiotensin system blockade, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibition and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonism, reducing the risk for mortality in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, but also for progression of CKD. Atrial fibrillation is also more common with CKD and affects the management of the former. In this review these non-renal complications of CKD are discussed, along with how the risk of these complications should be managed. Many new opportunities have demonstrated heart and kidney organ protection, but implementation is a challenge.

Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor for Chronic Kidney Disease: Strategies for Renal Protection

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hypertension are significant global health challenges that often coexist and aggravate each other. Renin-angiotensin system inhibitors are important to the management of these conditions; however, their efficacy for advanced CKD remains uncertain.

SUMMARY

Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) have superior efficacy for heart failure (HF) management, as evidenced by landmark trials such as the PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF, thus leading to its endorsement by various guidelines. Although direct evidence supporting the renal-protective effects of ARNI is lacking, post hoc analyses have suggested its potential to mitigate the decline of the estimated glomerular filtration rate and renal events, particularly in patients with HF with a relatively preserved ejection fraction. Mechanistically, ARNI augments the glomerular filtration rate by dilating glomerular arterioles, relaxing mesangial cells, and improving renal medullary blood flow, thereby mitigating interstitial fibrosis progression. ARNI also effectively addresses nondipper hypertension, particularly in salt-sensitive individuals, thereby reducing the cardiovascular risk.

KEY MESSAGES

Uncertainties regarding the efficacy and safety of ARNI for advanced renal failure (estimated glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min) exist. Excessive hypotension associated with ARNI use may exacerbate the renal function decline, especially in older patients with comorbid HF with a reduced ejection fraction. Hence, vigilant blood pressure monitoring is essential to optimizing the renal benefits of ARNI and minimizing adverse effects. Evidence supporting the renal benefits of ARNI continues to evolve; therefore, ARNI could mitigate renal dysfunction in select patient populations. Further research should be performed to clarify the efficacy of ARNI for advanced renal failure and refine its therapeutic application for patients with concurrent HF and renal dysfunction.

Sacubitril/Valsartan in Patients With Heart Failure and Deterioration in eGFR to <30 mL/min/1.73 m2

BACKGROUND

Sacubitril/valsartan is a foundational therapy for patients with heart failure. Although current U.S. Food and Drug Administration labeling does not provide guidance regarding initiation or continuation of sacubitril/valsartan in patients with worsening kidney function, guidelines identify estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 as a contraindication to therapy.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of continuing sacubitril/valsartan in patients with deterioration of kidney function below an eGFR of 30 mL/min/1.73 m2.

METHODS

The association between a deterioration in eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2, efficacy and safety outcomes, and treatment with sacubitril/valsartan vs renin-angiotensin system inhibitor were evaluated using time updated Cox models in a post hoc parallel trial analyses of PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF.

RESULTS

Among 8,346 randomized patients in PARADIGM-HF and 4,746 in PARAGON-HF, 691 (8.3%) and 613 (12.9%), respectively, had an eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 at least once in follow-up. Patients experiencing such deterioration were at higher risk of the primary outcome in both PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF. However, the incidence of the primary outcome remained lower with sacubitril/valsartan vs renin-angiotensin system inhibitor, regardless of deterioration in kidney function in both PARADIGM-HF (Pinteraction = 0.50) and PARAGON-HF (Pinteraction = 0.64). Rates of key safety outcomes were higher among patients experiencing eGFR deterioration; however, rates were similar between treatment groups including among those who remained on treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients experiencing deterioration of kidney function to a value below eGFR 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 faced high risk of cardiovascular and kidney disease outcomes. Continuation of sacubitril/valsartan was associated with persistent clinical benefit and no incremental safety risk. These data support continuation of sacubitril/valsartan for heart failure treatment even when eGFR declines below this threshold (PARADIGM-HF [Prospective Comparison of ARNI with ACEI to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure], NCT01035255; and PARAGON-HF [Prospective Comparison of ARNI with ARB Global Outcomes in HF with Preserved Ejection Fraction], NCT01920711).

Relationship Between Cardiac Structure and Function With Renal Function Trajectory and Outcomes in Patients With Heart Failure: Insights From the PARAGON-HF Trial

BACKGROUND

Renal dysfunction is common and associated with a poor prognosis in patients with heart failure. However, the association of cardiac structure and function with decline in kidney function in this population is unknown. We aimed to assess the association between individual measures of cardiac structure and function with changes in renal function and renal outcomes in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in the PARAGON-HF (Prospective Comparison of Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor With Angiotensin-Receptor Blockers Global Outcomes in Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction) echocardiographic substudy were included. The association between each echocardiographic parameter (expressed in standardized units) and changes over time in estimated glomerular filtration rate was calculated with repeated-measures mixed-effect models. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify individual cardiac parameters associated with the composite renal outcome (≥50% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate relative to baseline, development of end-stage renal disease, or death attributable to renal causes), after adjusting for covariates.

RESULTS

Among 1097 patients (mean age 74±8 years and 53% women), over a median follow-up of 2.9 years, 28 composite renal events (0.9 per 100 person-years) occurred. Higher left ventricular (LV) mass index and higher E/average e' ratio were associated with significantly more profound annual decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (for both, -0.4 [95% CI, -0.7 to -0.1] mL/min/1.73 m2/y per 1 higher SD). Higher LV mass index, LV end-diastolic volume index, right ventricular end-diastolic area, and a lower right ventricular fractional area change were each associated with a significantly higher risk for the composite renal outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

In the PARAGON-HF echocardiographic substudy, higher LV mass and filling pressures were independently associated with more profound kidney function decline, and higher LV mass and volume, as well as impaired right ventricular structure and function, were each associated with renal events. Assessing these parameters may help identify patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction at higher risk for adverse renal events and indicate potential therapeutic targets.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT01920711.

Kidney Outcomes Following Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor vs Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor/Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Therapy for Thrombotic Microangiopathy

Importance

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) on kidney biopsy is a pattern of endothelial injury commonly seen in malignant hypertension (mHTN), but treatment strategies are not well established.

Objective

To evaluate the kidney outcomes of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), specifically sacubitril/valsartan, vs angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) therapy for patients with mHTN-associated TMA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This single-center cohort study enrolled consecutive patients in China diagnosed with mHTN-associated TMA through kidney biopsy from January 2008 to June 2023. Follow-up was conducted until the conclusion of the study period. Data were analyzed in September 2023.

Exposures

Treatment with sacubitril/valsartan or ACEI/ARBs during hospitalization and after discharge.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was a composite of kidney recovery: a 50% decrease in serum creatinine level, decrease in serum creatinine levels to the reference range, or kidney survival free from dialysis for more than 1 month. The secondary and tertiary outcomes were a 15% increase in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) relative to baseline and kidney survival free from dialysis, respectively. Propensity score matching (PSM) and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were used to evaluate the association between sacubitril/valsartan and ACEI/ARB therapy with kidney recovery outcomes.

Results

Among the 217 patients (mean [SD] age, 35.9 [8.8] years; 188 men [86.6%]) included in the study, 66 (30.4%) received sacubitril/valsartan and 151 (69.6%) received ACEI/ARBs at baseline. Sacubitril/valsartan treatment was associated with shorter time to the primary outcome compared with ACEI/ARB treatment (20 of 63 [31.7%] vs 38 of 117 [32.5%]; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 1.85; 95% CI, 1.05-3.23). Sacubitril/valsartan treatment was independently associated with shorter time to a 15% increase in eGFR (15 of 46 [32.6%] vs 46 of 83 [55.4%]; aHR, 2.13; 95% CI, 1.09-4.17) and kidney survival free from dialysis (11 of 23 [47.8%] vs 16 of 57 [28.1%]; aHR, 2.63; 95% CI, 1.15-5.88) compared with ACEI/ARB treatment. These differences remained significant in the PSM comparison.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, sacubitril/valsartan treatment was associated with a potential kidney function benefit in patients with mHTN-associated TMA compared with ACEI/ARB treatment. The findings suggested that sacubitril/valsartan could be a superior therapeutic approach for managing this serious condition in terms of kidney recovery.

Management of patients with heart failure and chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and heart failure are often co-existing conditions due to a shared pathophysiological process involving neurohormonal activation and hemodynamic maladaptation. A wide range of pharmaceutical and interventional tools are available to patients with CKD, consisting of traditional ones with decades of experience and newer emerging therapies that are rapidly reshaping the landscape of medical care for this population. Management of patients with heart failure and CKD requires a stepwise approach based on renal function and the clinical phenotype of heart failure. This is often challenging due to altered drug pharmacokinetics interactions with various degrees of kidney function and frequent adverse effects from the therapy that lead to poor patient tolerance. Despite a great body of clinical evidence and guidelines that have offered various treatment options for patients with heart failure and CKD, respectively, patients with CKD are still underrepresented in heart failure clinical trials, especially for those with advanced CKD and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Future studies are needed to better understand the generalizability of these therapeutic options among heart failures with different stages of CKD.

Mechanism of Zhenwu Decoction modulating TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α loop through miR-451 to delay renal fibrosis in type 2 CRS

BACKGROUND

Type 2 cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) is a progressive renal insufficiency in patients with chronic heart failure, but its pathophysiology is still unclear. The Chinese medicine Zhenwu Decoction plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of 2-CRS, however, its mechanism of action remains unknown.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the ameliorative effect of ZWD on 2-CRS renal fibrosis is related to the modulation of miR-451 expression and thus mediating the TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α loop.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A type 2 CRS rat model was constructed using ligation of the left anterior descending branch of the coronary artery + 3/4 nephrectomy, and randomly divided into Control, Sham, Model, Captopril, ZWD-L, ZWD-M and ZWD-H groups.After 4 weeks of ZWD intervention, its effects on cardiac and renal functions of type 2 CRS rats were observed by hematuria and cardiac ultrasonography. Changes in kidney tissue morphology were observed by HE, Masson and PASM staining. The protein and mRNA expression of TLR4, NF-κB, HIF-1α and IκBα in kidney tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry and qPCR. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the protein expression of NF-κB and HIF-1α in renal tissues. Western blot and qPCR were used to detect the protein expression of MCP-1, ICAM-1, IL-1β, IL-6, TGF-β, α-SMA, FN, Smad2, Smad3, and E-cadherin in renal tissues. PCR was used to detect the protein expression of miR-451mRNA expression level in kidney tissues.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that ZWD was able to reduce the expression of Scr, BUN, NT-proBNP, and 24-hour quantitative urine protein, elevate LVEF, FS, CO, and reduce the level of LVIDS in type 2 CRS rats, as well as attenuate renal interstitial fibrosis and improve tubular swelling. In addition, Zhenwu Decoction up-regulated the expression of miR-451 in renal tissues and inhibited the expression of TLR4, NF-κB, and HIF-1α proteins and genes, which in turn inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors and fibrosis-related factors.

CONCLUSION

ZWD was able to up-regulate the expression of miR-451 in renal tissues, inhibit the TLR4/NF-κB/HIF-1α response loop, and then inhibit the expression of inflammatory factors and fibrosis-related factors, improve renal fibrosis, and delay the pathological process of type 2 CRS.

Acute changes in kidney function and outcomes following an acute myocardial infarction: Insights from PARADISE-MI

AIMS

Pharmacologic blockade of neurohormonal pathways in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) can result in acute changes in biomarkers of kidney function. We evaluated the effect of sacubitril/valsartan versus ramipril on initial changes in serum creatinine and the association of these changes with longer-term outcomes among participants in PARADISE-MI.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this randomized, double-blind, active-controlled, event-driven trial, 5661 patients with an acute MI were assigned to receive sacubitril/valsartan or ramipril, with no run-in. The frequency of an initial pre-specified increase in serum creatinine (≥26.5 or ≥44 μmol/L) from baseline to week 1 was compared between arms. Multivariable Cox regression models were fit to examine the association of acute changes in serum creatinine with the primary cardiovascular composite outcome (cardiovascular death, first heart failure hospitalization, or outpatient heart failure), all-cause mortality, and longer-term changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). An initial increase in serum creatinine ≥26.5 μmol/L occurred in 155 of 2604 (6.0%) patients assigned to sacubitril/valsartan and 120 of 2603 (4.6%) patients assigned to ramipril (odds ratio [OR] 1.32; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03-1.68). The corresponding numbers for an increase ≥44 μmol/L were 57 (2.2%) and 42 (1.6%), respectively (OR 1.37; 95% CI 0.92-2.05). A higher odds of increased serum creatinine ≥26.5 and ≥44 μmol/L for sacubitril/valsartan versus ramipril appeared to be restricted to patients who had a greater decline in systolic blood pressure over the same period (p-interaction = 0.05 and 0.001, respectively). In multivariable analyses, neither an acute increase in serum creatinine ≥26.5 or ≥44 μmol/L was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular outcomes, all-cause mortality, or differences in longer-term eGFR slope. Findings were similar across the randomized treatment arms (p-interaction >0.6 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Following acute MI, patients assigned to sacubitril/valsartan had a higher frequency of initial increases in serum creatinine at 1 week, compared with ramipril. In adjusted models, initial increases in serum creatinine with either treatment were not associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes or changes in longer-term kidney function.

The association between the eGFR slope and cardiorenal prognosis in patients with renoprotective treatments: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The associations between the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope and the cardiorenal prognosis in patients with renoprotective drugs have not been well characterized yet.

METHODS

PubMed, Medline, Embase, The Cochrane Library, CNKI, WanFang, Weipu databases and Clinicaltrial.gov were searched from inception to April 2023. Event-driven randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating renoprotective drugs and reporting eGFR slopes in patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, type 2 diabetes, or chronic kidney disease were included.

RESULTS

In all, 25 RCTs with 179,893 participants were included. The preservation of eGFR was observed in patients with renoprotective drugs, with a comparator-adjusted total eGFR slope of 0.51 mL/min per 1.73 m2/year (95% CI, 0.31 to 0.70). It was indicated that the eGFR preservation reflected by the positive comparator-adjusted total eGFR slope was associated with a reduced risk of composite renal outcome (β = -0.097, 95% CI, -0.178 to -0.016, p = 0.022), but was not associated with the risks of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) or all-cause mortality. In patients with SGLT2i, MRA, or RAASi treatments, the placebo-adjusted acute eGFR slope was -0.59 mL/min per 1.73 m2 per week (95% CI, -0.74 to -0.43), which was marginally associated with a reduced risk of composite renal outcome (β = 0.290, 95% CI, 0.000 to 0.581, p = 0.050), but was not associated with the risks of MACE or all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The eGFR preservation reflected by the positive comparator-adjusted total eGFR slope was associated with a reduced risk of composite renal outcome in patients receiving renoprotective agents. Greater acute decline in eGFR during the initiation of the treatment might confer a trend of fewer renal events in patients receiving SGLT2i, MRA, or RAASi.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for nearly half of all heart failure cases and has a prevalence that is expected to rise with the growing ageing population. HFpEF is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Specific HFpEF risk factors include age, diabetes, hypertension, obesity and atrial fibrillation. Haemodynamic contributions to HFpEF include changes in left ventricular structure, diastolic and systolic dysfunction, left atrial myopathy, pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular dysfunction, chronotropic incompetence, and vascular dysfunction. Inflammation, fibrosis, impaired nitric oxide signalling, sarcomere dysfunction, and mitochondrial and metabolic defects contribute to the cellular and molecular changes observed in HFpEF. HFpEF impacts multiple organ systems beyond the heart, including the skeletal muscle, peripheral vasculature, lungs, kidneys and brain. The diagnosis of HFpEF can be made in individuals with signs and symptoms of heart failure with abnormality in natriuretic peptide levels or evidence of cardiopulmonary congestion, facilitated by the use of HFpEF risk scores and additional imaging and testing with the exclusion of HFpEF mimics. Management includes initiation of guideline-directed medical therapy and management of comorbidities. Given the significant impact of HFpEF on quality of life, future research efforts should include a particular focus on how patients can live better with this disease.

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic overlap in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: Cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and response to sacubitril/valsartan in PARAGON-HF

AIMS

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) multimorbidity is prevalent among individuals with heart failure (HF), but whether cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment response to sacubitril/valsartan vary in relation to CKM status is unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this PARAGON-HF post-hoc analysis, we evaluated the impact of CKM multimorbidity (atherosclerotic cardiovascular [CV] disease, chronic kidney disease, and type 2 diabetes) on cardiac structure and function, clinical outcomes, and treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan versus valsartan. The primary outcome was a composite of total HF hospitalizations and CV death. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the primary outcome and a composite kidney outcome (sustained estimated glomerular filtration rate reduction of ≥50%, end-stage kidney disease, or kidney-related death). At baseline, 35.2% had one CKM condition, 33.3% had two, 15.9% had three, and only 15.6% had HF alone. CKM multimorbidity was associated with higher septal and posterior wall thickness, lower global longitudinal strain, higher E/e', and worse right ventricular function. Total HF hospitalizations or CV death increased with greater CKM multimorbidity, with the highest relative risk observed with three CKM conditions (rate ratio 3.06, 95% confidence interval 2.33-4.03), compared with HF alone. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of the number of CKM conditions for the primary endpoint (pinteraction = 0.75), CV death (pinteraction = 0.82), total HF hospitalizations (pinteraction = 0.67), and the composite kidney endpoint (pinteraction = 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

Cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic multimorbidity was common in PARAGON-HF and associated with adverse changes in cardiac structure and function and with a stepwise increase in risk of clinical outcomes. Treatment effects of sacubitril/valsartan were consistent irrespective of CKM burden.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01920711.

Efficacy of early administration of sacubitril/valsartan after coronary artery revascularization in patients with acute myocardial infarction complicated by moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation: a randomized controlled trial

Effects of angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI) on ventricular remodeling in patients with heart failure, especially heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), are better than those of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEI). Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) complicated by mitral regurgitation exacerbates ventricular remodeling and increases the risk of heart failure. There is limited evidence on the effects of early administration of ARNI in patients with AMI complicated by mitral regurgitation. The aim of this trial was to examine the effectiveness and the safety of early administration of sacubitril/valsartan after coronary artery revascularization in patients with AMI complicated by moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation. This was a randomized, single-blind, parallel-group, controlled trial. From June 2021 to June 2022, we enrolled 142 consecutive patients with AMI complicated by moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation and followed them for 12 months. The patients received standard treatment for AMI and were randomly assigned to receive ARNI or benazepril. The primary efficacy end points were the differences in mitral regurgitant jet area (MRJA), mitral regurgitant volume (MRV), concentration of n-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and left ventricular end-diastolic volume and end-systolic volume (LVEDV and LVESV) between groups and within groups at baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Secondary end points included the rates of heart failure hospitalization, all-cause mortality, refractory angina, malignant arrhythmias, recurrent myocardial infarction, and stroke. Safety end points included the rates of hyperkalemia, renal dysfunction, hypotension, angioedema, and cough. The ARNI group had significantly lower NT-proBNP levels than the benazepril group at 1 month and later (P < 0.001). MRJA and MRV significantly improved in the ARNI group compared with the benazepril group at 12 months (MRJA: - 3.21 ± 2.18 cm2 vs. - 1.83 ± 2.81 cm2, P < 0.05; MRV: - 27.22 ± 15.22 mL vs. - 13.67 ± 21.02 mL, P < 0.001). The ARNI group also showed significant reductions in LVEDV and LVESV (P < 0.05) and improvement in LVEF (P < 0.05). Secondary end point analysis showed a significantly higher rate of heart failure hospitalization in the benazepril group compared with the ARNI group (HR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.12-3.68, P = 0.021). Safety end point analysis showed a higher rate of hypotension in the ARNI group (P < 0.05). Early use of sacubitril/valsartan after coronary artery revascularization in patients with AMI complicated by moderate-to-severe mitral regurgitation can significantly reduce mitral regurgitation, improve ventricular remodeling, and decrease heart failure hospitalization. Nevertheless, caution is needed to avoid hypotension. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100054255) registered on December 11, 2021.

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Slope as an Endpoint in Cardiovascular Trials

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

End stage kidney disease can be a slow process and it may be challenging to achieve required follow-up for sufficient events. Therefore, a surrogate kidney endpoint, such as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) slope maybe attractive to assess the kidney in cardiovascular trials, especially heart failure (HF).

RECENT FINDINGS

eGFR slope can generate informative results in a shorter follow-up period, has decreased risk of type-2 error, and is less sensitive to eGFR shifts compared with other surrogate kidney endpoints (eGFR decline≥40% or doubling creatinine). However, eGFR slope has its limitations with acute effects, heterogeneity in slope calculation/reporting, and deviations from linearity. eGFR slope is a kidney endpoint which may be well-suited for HF trials. Cross-collaborated guideline recommendations are needed to optimize the use of eGFR slope as a kidney endpoint in patients with HF.

Fluid Restriction for Patients with Heart Failure: Current Evidence and Future Perspectives

Fluid restriction has long been believed to benefit patients with heart failure by counteracting the activated renin-angiotensin aldosterone system and sympathetic nervous activity. However, its effectiveness remains controversial. In this paper, we summarized the current recommendations and reviewed the scientific evidence on fluid restriction in the setting of both acute decompensated heart failure and compensated heart failure. While a recent meta-analysis demonstrated the beneficial effects of fluid restriction on both all-cause mortality and hospitalization compared to usual care, several weaknesses were identified in the assessment of the methodological quality of the meta-analysis using AMSTAR 2. Further randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes are needed to elucidate the benefits of fluid restriction for both clinical outcomes and patient-reported outcomes in patients with heart failure.

The contemporary role of sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) and angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) in the management of heart failure: State-of-the-art review

Novel therapies for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) are angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i), etc. The purpose of this review is to determine the effects of ARNI and SGLT2i in heart failure (HF), compare the impact of SGLT2i with ARNI, and finally evaluate the current data regarding the combination of these two drugs in HF. Various trials on the respective medications have shown some significant reduction in all-cause mortality and cardiovascular (CV) death. The combination of these drugs has shown more CV benefits than monotherapy. There is emerging data about these two drugs in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). At present, there are less head-to-head comparison trials of these two drugs. This review provides insights on the current evidence, comparative efficacy, and combination therapy of ARNI and SGLT2i in managing HF, focussing on HFrEF and HFpEF.

Kidney Outcomes Among Medicare Beneficiaries After Hospitalization for Heart Failure

Importance

Kidney health has received increasing focus as part of comprehensive heart failure (HF) treatment efforts. However, the occurrence of clinically relevant kidney outcomes in contemporary populations with HF has not been well studied.

Objective

To examine rates of incident dialysis and acute kidney injury (AKI) among Medicare beneficiaries after HF hospitalization.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study evaluated adults aged 65 years or older who were hospitalized for HF across 372 sites in the Get With The Guidelines-Heart Failure registry in the US between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2018. Patients younger than 65 years or requiring dialysis either during or prior to hospitalization were excluded. Data were analyzed from May 4, 2021, to March 8, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was inpatient dialysis initiation in the year after HF hospitalization and was ascertained via linkage with Medicare claims data. Other all-cause and cause-specific hospitalizations were also evaluated. The covariate-adjusted association between discharge estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and 1-year postdischarge outcomes was examined using Cox proportional hazards regression models.

Results

Overall, among 85 298 patients included in the analysis (mean [SD] age, 80 [9] years; 53% women) mean (SD) left ventricular ejection fraction was 47% (16%) and mean (SD) eGFR was 53 (29) mL/min per 1.73 m2; 54 010 (63%) had an eGFR less than 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2. By 1 year after HF hospitalization, 6% had progressed to dialysis, 7% had progressed to dialysis or end-stage kidney disease, and 7% had been readmitted for AKI. Incident dialysis increased steeply with lower discharge eGFR category: compared with patients with an eGFR of 60 mL/min per 1.73 m2 or more, individuals with an eGFR of 45 to less than 60 and of less than 30 mL/min per 1.73 m2 had higher rates of dialysis readmission (45 to <60: adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 2.16 [95% CI, 1.86-2.51]; <30: AHR, 28.46 [95% CI, 25.25-32.08]). Lower discharge eGFR (per 10 mL/min per 1.73 m2 decrease) was independently associated with a higher rate of readmission for dialysis (AHR, 2.23; 95% CI, 2.14-2.32), dialysis or end-stage kidney disease (AHR, 2.34; 95% CI, 2.24-2.44), and AKI (AHR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.23-1.27), with similar findings for all-cause mortality, all-cause readmission, and HF readmission. Baseline left ventricular ejection fraction did not modify the covariate-adjusted association between lower discharge eGFR and kidney outcomes.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, older adults with HF had substantial risk of kidney complications, with an estimated 6% progressing to dialysis in the year after HF hospitalization. These findings emphasize the need for health care approaches prioritizing kidney health in this high-risk population.

Acute heart failure - an EFIM guideline critical appraisal and adaptation for internists

BACKGROUND

Over the past two decades, several studies have been conducted that have tried to answer questions on management of patients with acute heart failure (AHF) in terms of diagnosis and treatment. Updated international clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have endorsed the findings of these studies. The aim of this document was to adapt recommendations of existing guidelines to help internists make decisions about specific and complex scenarios related to AHF.

METHODS

The adaptation procedure was to identify firstly unresolved clinical problems in patients with AHF in accordance with the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparison and Outcomes) process, then conduct a critical assessment of existing CPGs and choose recommendations that are most applicable to these specific scenarios.

RESULTS

Seven PICOs were identified and CPGs were assessed. There is no single test that can help clinicians in discriminating patients with acute dyspnoea, congestion or hypoxaemia. Performing of echocardiography and natriuretic peptide evaluation is recommended, and chest X-ray and lung ultrasound may be considered. Treatment strategies to manage arterial hypotension and low cardiac output include short-term continuous intravenous inotropic support, vasopressors, renal replacement therapy, and temporary mechanical circulatory support. The most updated recommendations on how to treat specific patients with AHF and certain comorbidities and for reducing post-discharge rehospitalization and mortality are provided. Overall, 51 recommendations were endorsed and the rationale for the selection is provided in the main text.

CONCLUSION

Through the use of appropriate tailoring process methodology, this document provides a simple and updated guide for internists dealing with AHF patients.

Comorbidity of patients with noncommunicable diseases in general practice. Eurasian guidelines

Создание руководства поддержано Советом по терапевтическим наукам отделения клинической медицины Российской академии наук.

HBI-8000 improves heart failure with preserved ejection fraction via the TGF-β1/MAPK signalling pathway

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for approximately 50% of total heart failure patients and is characterized by peripheral circulation, cardiac remodelling and comorbidities (such as advanced age, obesity, hypertension and diabetes) with limited treatment options. Chidamide (HBI-8000) is a domestically produced benzamide-based histone deacetylase isoform-selective inhibitor used for the treatment of relapsed refractory peripheral T-cell lymphomas. Based on our in vivo studies, we propose that HBI-8000 exerts its therapeutic effects by inhibiting myocardial fibrosis and myocardial hypertrophy in HFpEF patients. At the cellular level, we found that HBI-8000 inhibits AngII-induced proliferation and activation of CFs and downregulates the expression of fibrosis-related factors. In addition, we observed that the HFpEF group and AngII stimulation significantly increased the expression of TGF-β1 as well as phosphorylated p38MAPK, JNK and ERK, whereas the expression of the above factors was significantly reduced after HBI-8000 treatment. Activation of the TGF-β1/MAPK pathway promotes the development of fibrotic remodelling, and pretreatment with SB203580 (p38MAPK inhibitor) reverses this pathological change. In conclusion, our data suggest that HBI-8000 inhibits fibrosis by modulating the TGF-β1/MAPK pathway thereby improving HFpEF. Therefore, HBI-8000 may become a new hope for the treatment of HFpEF patients.

Epidemiology and Management of Patients With Kidney Disease and Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) comprises approximately one-half of all diagnoses of heart failure. There is significant overlap of this clinical syndrome with chronic kidney disease (CKD), with many shared comorbid conditions. The presence of CKD in patients with HFpEF is one of the most powerful risk factors for adverse clinical outcomes, including death and heart failure hospitalization. The pathophysiology linking HFpEF and CKD remains unclear, but it is postulated to consist of numerous bidirectional pathways, including endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, obesity, insulin resistance, and impaired sodium handling. The diagnosis of HFpEF requires certain criteria to be satisfied, including signs and symptoms consistent with volume overload caused by structural or functional cardiac abnormalities and evidence of increased cardiac filling pressures. There are numerous overlapping metabolic clinical syndromes in patients with HFpEF and CKD that can serve as targets for intervention. With an increasing number of therapies available for HFpEF and CKD as well as for obesity and diabetes, improved recognition and diagnosis are paramount for appropriate management and improved clinical outcomes in patients with both HFpEF and CKD.

Advance in the pharmacological and comorbidities management of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: evidence from clinical trials

The prevalence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for approximately 50% of the total heart failure population, and with the aging of the population and the increasing prevalence of hypertension, obesity, and type 2 diabetes (T2DM), the incidence of HFpEF continues to rise and has become the most common subtype of heart failure. Compared with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction, HFpEF has a more complex pathophysiology and is more often associated with hypertension, T2DM, obesity, atrial fibrillation, renal insufficiency, pulmonary hypertension, obstructive sleep apnea, and other comorbidities. HFpEF has generally been considered a syndrome with high phenotypic heterogeneity, and no effective treatments have been shown to reduce mortality to date. Diuretics and comorbidity management are traditional treatments for HFpEF; however, they are mostly empirical due to a lack of clinical evidence in the setting of HFpEF. With the EMPEROR-Preserved and DELIVER results, sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors become the first evidence-based therapies to reduce rehospitalization for heart failure. Subgroup analyses of the PARAGON-HF, TOPCAT, and CHARM-Preserved trials suggest that angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors, spironolactone, and angiotensin II receptor blockers may be beneficial in patients at the lower end of the ejection fraction spectrum. Other potential pharmacotherapies represented by non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists finerenone and antifibrotic agent pirfenidone also hold promise for the treatment of HFpEF. This article intends to review the clinical evidence on current pharmacotherapies of HFpEF, as well as the comorbidities management of atrial fibrillation, hypertension, T2DM, obesity, pulmonary hypertension, renal insufficiency, obstructive sleep apnea, and iron deficiency, to optimize the clinical management of HFpEF.

Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction: How to Deal with This Chameleon

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is characterized by a notable heterogeneity in both phenotypic and pathophysiological features, with a growing incidence due to the increase in median age and comorbidities such as obesity, arterial hypertension, and cardiometabolic disease. In recent decades, the development of new pharmacological and non-pharmacological options has significantly impacted outcomes, improving clinical status and reducing mortality. Moreover, a more personalized and accurate therapeutic management has been demonstrated to enhance the quality of life, diminish hospitalizations, and improve overall survival. Therefore, assessing the peculiarities of patients with HFpEF is crucial in order to obtain a better understanding of this disorder. Importantly, comorbidities have been shown to influence symptoms and prognosis, and, consequently, they should be carefully addressed. In this sense, it is mandatory to join forces with a multidisciplinary team in order to achieve high-quality care. However, HFpEF remains largely under-recognized and under-treated in clinical practice, and the diagnostic and therapeutic management of these patients remains challenging. The aim of this paper is to articulate a pragmatic approach for patients with HFpEF focusing on the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of HFpEF.

Efficacy of Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor and Its Renal Outcome in Heart Failure Patients: A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials

Heart failure (HF) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality and imposes a significant financial burden on healthcare systems globally. Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), a novel neuroendocrine inhibitor, is frequently used in treating HF. However, there is still limited understanding regarding how it compares to other neuroendocrine inhibitors, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). The purpose of this research is to present the most recent data regarding the efficacy and renal impact of ARNIs in the treatment of HF in comparison to ACE inhibitors and ARBs. Several large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have recently been conducted to evaluate the benefits of this drug in patients with different types of HF, regardless of their renal status. We searched multiple databases, including PubMed, PubMed Central (PMC), and Google Scholar, to find relevant RCTs. The efficacy outcome was a composite of the rate of death from cardiovascular causes, the frequency of HF hospitalizations (HFH), and alterations in N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels. The renal outcome was impairment of renal function. This systematic review analyzed large-scale RCTs involving 17,327 participants, with an average follow-up time of approximately 2.9 years. sacubitril/valsartan showed notable improvements compared to ACEis and ARBs in the following areas: reduction in NT-proBNP levels, prevention of further deterioration in renal function, and decreased hospitalizations for HF. Interestingly, there is no increased risk of mortality from cardiovascular causes with sacubitril or valsartan.

Effect of sacubitril valsartan on heart failure with mid-range or preserved ejection fraction in patients on maintenance hemodialysis: real-world experience in a single-center, prospective study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of sacubitril valsartan (SV) on heart failure (HF) hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality in patients on hemodialysis with HF with preserved ejection fraction (EF; HFpEF).

METHODS

This single-center, prospective study enrolled 155 stable hemodialysis patients with EF > 40% who were followed up for 12 months. Fifty-nine patients were treated with SV; the others were matched for EF (57.89 ± 9.35 vs. 58.00 ± 11.82, P = 0.9) at a ratio of 1:1 and included as controls. The target dosage of SV was 200 mg/day.

RESULTS

Twenty-three (23/155; 14.84%) had HF with mid-range EF (HFmrEF), while 132 (85.16%) had HFpEF. After SV treatment, the peak early diastolic transmitral flow velocity/peak early diastolic mitral annular tissue velocity(E/e') improved from 17.19 ± 8.74 to 12.80 ± 5.52 (P = 0.006), the left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic diameter decreased from 53.14 ± 7.67 mm to 51.56 ± 7.44 mm (P = 0.03), and the LV mass index decreased from 165.7 ± 44.6 g/m2 to 154.8 ± 24.0 g/m2 (P = 0.02). LVEF (P = 0.08) and LV global longitudinal strain (P = 0.7) did not change significantly. The composite outcome of first and recurrent HF hospitalization or cardiovascular death showed no difference between group. However, the Acute Dialysis Quality Initiative Workgroup (ADQI) HF class improved in 39 and 15 patients and worsened in 1 and 11 patients in the SV and control groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Age, diabetes mellitus, and pulmonary arterial pressure were independent risk factors for HF hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality in patients with HFpEF.

CONCLUSIONS

SV improved LV hypertrophy, diastolic function, and the ADQI class for HF; however, it failed to reduce the composite endpoints of HF hospitalization and cardiovascular disease-related mortality over 12 months of follow-up in patients on maintenance hemodialysis with EF of > 40%.

Angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor in chronic heart failure and comorbidity management: Indian consensus statement

Heart failure (HF) is a significant public health concern characterized by notable rates of morbidity and mortality. Multimorbidity, ranging from 43% to 98% among HF patients, significantly impacts prognosis and treatment response. HF management requires a holistic approach, including guideline-directed medical therapy. Sacubitril/valsartan (angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor [ARNI]) is a cornerstone of HF treatment, supported by robust evidence from large-scale clinical trials across different levels of left ventricular ejection fraction. The recommendations presented in this paper have been developed by a group of cardiologists in India who convened in expert opinion meetings to discuss the utilization of ARNI in chronic HF patients with five different comorbid conditions like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), chronic kidney disease, myocardial infarction (MI), obesity, and hypertension. Key focus areas include initiation, dose titration, and management across different HF phenotypes and comorbidities. Emphasis is placed on the efficacy of ARNI irrespective of glycemic status in the T2DM population, its role in HF patients with obesity, and addressing challenges related to renal function decline and hyperkalemia. Additionally, the document highlights ARNI's potential benefits in hypertensive and post-MI HF patients, alongside observations on the obesity paradox in HF prognosis. Overall, these recommendations aim to optimize ARNI therapy in HF patient populations with different comorbidities, addressing specific challenges and considerations to improve outcomes and quality of life.

Updates on New Therapies for Patients with CKD

Individuals diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) continue to increase globally. This group of patients experience a disproportionately higher risk of cardiovascular (CV) events compared to the general population. Despite multiple guidelines-based medical management, patients with CKD continue to experience residual cardiorenal risk. Several potential mechanisms explain this excessive CV risk observed in individuals with CKD. Several new drugs have become available that could potentially transform CKD care, given their efficacy in this patient population. Nevertheless, use of these drugs presents certain benefits and challenges that are often underrecognized by prescribing these drugs. In this review, we aim to provide a brief discussion about CKD pathophysiology, limiting our discussion to recent published studies. We also explore benefits and limitations of newer drugs, including angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitors (ARNI), sodium glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), glucagon-like peptides-1 (GLP-1) agonists and finerenone in patients with CKD. Despite several articles covering this topic, our review provides an algorithm where subgroups of patients with CKD might benefit the most from such drugs based on the selection criteria of the landmark trials. Patients with CKD who have nephrotic range proteinuria beyond 5000 mg/g, or those with poorly controlled blood pressure (systolic ≥160 mm Hg or diastolic ≥100 mm Hg) remain understudied.

The efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan in chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Sacubitril/valsartan, a new pharmacological class of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor, is beneficial to heart failure through blocking the degradation of natriuretic peptides and inhibiting renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activation which also relate to the pathophysiologic mechanisms of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, its effects on CKD remain unclear. To assess the efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan for patients with CKD, we performed this meta-analysis.

METHODS

The Embase, PubMed and the Cochrane Library were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared sacubitril/valsartan with ACEI/ARBs in patients with CKD whose estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was below 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. We adopted the Cochrane Collaboration tool for assessing the risk of bias. The effect size was estimated using the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

Six trials with a total of 6217 patients with CKD were included. In terms of cardiovascular events, sacubitril/valsartan attenuated the risk of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalization (OR: 0.68, 95% CI 0.61-0.76, P < 0.00001, I2 = 43%). With respect to renal function, sacubitril/valsartan prevented the incidence of serum creatinine (Scr) elevation among patients with CKD (OR: 0.79, 95% CI 0.67-0.95, P = 0.01, I2 = 0%). Subgroup analysis about eGFR demonstrated that with long follow-up, sacubitril/valsartan significantly decreased the number of patients with more than 50% reduction in eGFR compared with ACEI/ARBs (OR: 0.52, 95% CI 0.32-0.84, P = 0.008, I2 = 9%). In patients with CKD, the incidence of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) was reduced with sacubitril/valsartan treatment, despite no statistically significant difference between the two groups (OR: 0.59, 95% CI 0.29-1.20, P = 0.14, I2 = 0%). As for the safety, we found that sacubitril/valsartan was associated with the occurrence of hypotension (OR: 1.71, 95% CI 1.15-2.56, P = 0.008, I2 = 51%). However, there was no trend towards increasing the risk of hyperkalemia in patients who received sacubitril/valsartan (OR: 1.09, 95% CI 0.75-1.60, P = 0.64, I2 = 64%).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis indicated that sacubitril/valsartan improved renal function and conferred effective cardiovascular benefits in patients with CKD, without serious safety issues being observed. Thus, sacubitril/valsartan may be a promising option for patients with CKD. Certainly, further large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these conclusions.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

[ https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2022-4-0045/ ], identifier [INPLASY202240045].

Early changes in renal function during rapid up-titration of guideline-directed medical therapy following an admission for acute heart failure

AIM

In this subgroup analysis of STRONG-HF, we explored the association between changes in renal function and efficacy of rapid up-titration of guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) according to a high-intensity care (HIC) strategy.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In patients randomized to the HIC arm (n = 542), renal function was assessed at baseline and during follow-up visits. We studied the association with clinical characteristics and outcomes of a decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) at week 1, defined as ≥15% decrease from baseline. Patients in the usual care group (n = 536) were seen at day 90. The treatment effect of HIC versus usual care was independent of baseline eGFR (p-interaction = 0.4809). A decrease in eGFR within 1 week occurred in 77 (15.5%) patients and was associated with more rales on examination (p = 0.004), and a higher New York Heart Association class at the corresponding visit. Following the decrease in eGFR at 1 week, lower average optimal doses of GDMT were prescribed during follow-up (p = 0.0210) and smaller reductions in N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide occurred (geometrical mean 0.81 in no eGFR decrease vs 1.12 in GFR decrease, p = 0.0003). The rate of heart failure (HF) readmission or death at 180 days was 12.3% in no eGFR decrease versus 18.5% in eGFR decrease (p = 0.2274) and HF readmissions were 7.8% versus 16.6% (p = 0.0496).

CONCLUSIONS

In the STRONG-HF study, HIC reduced 180-day HF readmission or death regardless of baseline eGFR. An early decrease in eGFR during rapid up-titration of GDMT was associated with more evidence of congestion, yet lower doses of GDMT during follow-up.

Case report: Takotsubo syndrome following percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), which is frequently secondary to severe emotional (fear, anxiety, etc.) or physical stress, is an acute reversible heart failure syndrome characterized by temporary left ventricular regional systolic dysfunction. Nevertheless, TTS after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is rare, and its clinical characteristics are easily confused with complications after PCI.

CASE PRESENTATION

This article reports a case of TTS induced by psychological and physical pressure after successful PCI in our institution. The patient had symptoms comparable to complications after PCI, including V1-V5 ST segment elevation and T wave changes of electrocardiogram (ECG) and troponin elevation. Coronary angiogram, left ventricle opacification (LVO), and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) were performed to exclude postoperative complications. Diagnosis of TTS was eventually achieved.

CONCLUSION

We cannot dismiss the risk of TTS in patients who have unexplained V1-V5 ST segment elevation and T wave changes of ECG and troponin elevation following successful PCI. Meanwhile, medical personnel should provide mental, cultural, and emotional services to patients in addition to essential diagnostic and treatment technical services during the perioperative period.

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibition for heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and chronic kidney disease with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus: a narrative review

BACKGROUND

Heart failure (HF), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are common and interrelated conditions, each with a significant burden of disease. HF and kidney disease progress through pathophysiologic pathways that culminate in end-stage disease, for which T2DM is a major risk factor. Intervention within these pathways can disrupt disease processes and improve patient outcomes. Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) have been investigated in patient populations with combinations of T2DM, CKD, and/or HF. However, until recently, the effect of these agents in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) was not well studied.

MAIN BODY

The aim of this review is to summarize key information regarding the interaction between HFpEF, CKD, and T2DM and discuss the role of SGLT2 inhibition in the management of patients with comorbid HFpEF and CKD, with or without T2DM. Literature was retrieved using Boolean searches for English-language articles in PubMed and Google Scholar and included terms related to SGLT2is, HFpEF, T2DM, and CKD. The reference lists from retrieved articles were also considered.

CONCLUSION

SGLT2is are efficacious and safe in treating HFpEF in patients with comorbid CKD with and without T2DM. The totality of evidence from clinical trials data suggests there are benefits in using SGLT2is across the spectrum of left ventricular ejection fractions, but there may be a potential for different renal effects in the different ejection fraction groups. Further analysis of these clinical trials has highlighted the need to obtain more accurate phenotypes for patients with HF and CKD to better determine which patients might respond to guideline-directed medical therapies, including SGLT2is. CI confidence interval, EF ejection fraction, eGFR estimated glomerular filtration rate, HF heart failure, HHF hospitalization for HF, HR hazard ratio, LVEF left ventricular ejection fraction, SGLT2i sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor, UACR urine albumin-creatinine ratio. a Mean value, unless otherwise stated, b SGLT2i vs. placebo, c Data reanalyzed using more conventional endpoints (≥ 50% sustained decrease in eGFR, and including renal death) (UACR at baseline not stated in trial reports).

Combination of sacubitril/valsartan and blockade of the PI3K pathway enhanced kidney protection in a mouse model of cardiorenal syndrome

Aims

Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) is an established treatment for heart failure. However, whether ARNI has renoprotective effects beyond renin-angiotensin system inhibitors alone in cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) has not been fully elucidated. Here, we examined the effects of ARNI on the heart and kidneys of CRS model mice with overt albuminuria and identified the mechanisms underlying ARNI-induced kidney protection.

Methods and results

C57BL6 mice were subjected to chronic angiotensin II infusion, nephrectomy, and salt loading (ANS); they developed CRS phenotypes and were divided into the vehicle treatment (ANS-vehicle), sacubitril/valsartan treatment (ANS-ARNI), and two different doses of valsartan treatment (ANS-VAL M, ANS-VAL H) groups. Four weeks after treatment, the hearts and kidneys of each group were evaluated. The ANS-vehicle group showed cardiac fibrosis, cardiac dysfunction, overt albuminuria, and kidney fibrosis. The ANS-ARNI group showed a reduction in cardiac fibrosis and cardiac dysfunction compared with the valsartan treatment groups. However, regarding the renoprotective effects characterized by albuminuria and fibrosis, ARNI was less effective than valsartan. Kidney transcriptomic analysis showed that the ANS-ARNI group exhibited a significant enhancement in the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-AKT signalling pathway compared with the ANS-VAL M group. Adding PI3K inhibitor treatment to ARNI ameliorated kidney injury to levels comparable with those of ANS-VAL M while preserving the superior cardioprotective effect of ARNI.

Conclusion

PI3K pathway activation has been identified as a key mechanism affecting remnant kidney injury under ARNI treatment in CRS pathology, and blockading the PI3K pathway with simultaneous ARNI treatment is a potential therapeutic strategy for treating CRS with overt albuminuria.

Health and Economic Evaluation of Sacubitril-Valsartan for Heart Failure Management

Importance

The US Food and Drug Administration expanded labeling of sacubitril-valsartan from the treatment of patients with chronic heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (EF) to all patients with HF, noting the greatest benefits in those with below-normal EF. However, the upper bound of below normal is not clearly defined, and value determinations across a broader EF range are unknown.

Objective

To estimate the cost-effectiveness of sacubitril-valsartan vs renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASis) across various upper-level cutoffs of EF.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This economic evaluation included participant-level data from the PARADIGM-HF (Prospective Comparison of ARNI With ACEI to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure) and the PARAGON-HF (Prospective Comparison of ARNi with ARB Global Outcomes in HF With Preserved Ejection Fraction) trials. PARADIGM-HF was conducted between 2009 and 2014, PARAGON-HF was conducted between 2014 and 2019, and this analysis was conducted between 2021 and 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

A 5-state Markov model used risk reductions for all-cause mortality and HF hospitalization from PARADIGM-HF and PARAGON-HF. Quality-of-life differences were estimated from EuroQol-5D scores. Hospitalization and medication costs were obtained from published national sources; the wholesale acquisition cost of sacubitril-valsartan was $7092 per year. Risk estimates and treatment effects were generated in consecutive 5% EF increments up to 60% and applied to an EF distribution of US patients with HF from the Get With the Guidelines-Heart Failure registry. The base case included a lifetime horizon from a health care sector perspective. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) were estimated at EFs of 60% or less (base case) and at various upper-level EF cutoffs.

Results

Among 13 264 total patients whose data were analyzed, for those with EFs of 60% or less, sacubitril-valsartan was projected to add 0.53 quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) at an incremental lifetime cost of $40 892 compared with RASi, yielding an ICER of $76 852 per QALY. In a probabilistic sensitivity analysis, 95% of the values of the ICER occurred between $71 516 and $82 970 per QALY. Among patients with chronic HF and an EF of 60% or less, treatment with sacubitril-valsartan vs RASis would be at least of economic intermediate value (ICER <$180 000 per QALY) at a sacubitril-valsartan cost of $10 242 or less per year, of high economic value (ICER <$60 000 per QALY) at a cost of $3673 or less per year, and cost-saving at a cost of $338 or less per year. The ICERs were $67 331 per QALY, $59 614 per QALY, and $56 786 per QALY at EFs of 55% or less, 50% or less, and 45% or less, respectively. Treatment with sacubitril-valsartan in only those with EFs of 45% or greater (up to ≤60%) yielded an ICER of $127 172 per QALY gained; treatment was more cost-effective in those at the lower end of this range (ICER of $100 388 per QALY gained for those with EFs of 45%-55%; ICER of $84 291 per QALY gained for those with EFs of 45%-50%).

Conclusions and Relevance

Cost-effectiveness modeling provided an ICER for treatment with sacubitril-valsartan vs RASis consistent with high economic value for patients with reduced and mildly reduced EFs (≤50%) and at least intermediate value at the current undiscounted wholesale acquisition cost price at an EF of 60% or less. Treatment was more cost-effective at lower EF ranges. These findings may have implications for coverage decisions and value assessments in contemporary clinical practice guidelines.

Optimization of guideline-directed medical treatment for heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction

With the increasing number of medications demonstrating mortality benefits in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), the pharmacological treatment of HFrEF is entering a new phase. To enhance outcomes in heart failure patients through medical treatment, the choice of appropriate medications and simultaneous and rapid uptitration are critical. However, there are several challenges encountered during this medication uptitration, including issues like hypotension, fatigue, worsening renal function, and hyperkalemia. This paper addresses strategies for effectively managing these challenges to successfully reach the maximum tolerated dose in patients. Additionally, it will discuss the management of comorbidities often associated with heart failure, the importance of exercise and rehabilitation, and the significance of proper nutrition intake, in addition to guideline-directed medical therapy.

Sacubitril/valsartan in heart failure with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction: a pre-specified participant-level pooled analysis of PARAGLIDE-HF and PARAGON-HF

AIMS

The PARAGLIDE-HF trial demonstrated reductions in natriuretic peptides with sacubitril/valsartan compared with valsartan in patients with heart failure (HF) with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction who had a recent worsening HF event, but was not adequately powered to examine clinical outcomes. PARAGON-HF included a subset of PARAGLIDE-HF-like patients who were recently hospitalized for HF. Participant-level data from PARAGLIDE-HF and PARAGON-HF were pooled to better estimate the efficacy and safety of sacubitril/valsartan in reducing cardiovascular and renal events in HF with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Both PARAGLIDE-HF and PARAGON-HF were multicentre, double-blind, randomized, active-controlled trials of sacubitril/valsartan vs. valsartan in patients with HF with mildly reduced or preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF >40% in PARAGLIDE-HF and ≥45% in PARAGON-HF). In the pre-specified primary analysis, we pooled participants in PARAGLIDE-HF (all of whom were enrolled during or within 30 days of a worsening HF event) with a 'PARAGLIDE-like' subset of PARAGON-HF (those hospitalized for HF within 30 days). We also pooled the entire PARAGLIDE-HF and PARAGON-HF populations for a broader context. The primary endpoint for this analysis was the composite of total worsening HF events (including first and recurrent HF hospitalizations and urgent visits) and cardiovascular death. The secondary endpoint was the pre-specified renal composite endpoint for both studies (≥50% decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate from baseline, end-stage renal disease, or renal death). Compared with valsartan, sacubitril/valsartan significantly reduced total worsening HF events and cardiovascular death in both the primary pooled analysis of participants with recent worsening HF [n = 1088; rate ratio (RR) 0.78; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61-0.99; P = 0.042] and in the pooled analysis of all participants (n = 5262; RR 0.86; 95% CI: 0.75-0.98; P = 0.027). In the pooled analysis of all participants, first nominal statistical significance was reached by Day 9 after randomization, and treatment benefits were larger in those with LVEF ≤60% (RR 0.78; 95% CI 0.66-0.91) compared with those with LVEF >60% (RR 1.09; 95% CI 0.86-1.40; Pinteraction = 0.021). Sacubitril/valsartan was also associated with lower rates of the renal composite endpoint in the primary pooled analysis [hazard ratio (HR) 0.67; 95% CI 0.43-1.05; P = 0.080] and the pooled analysis of all participants (HR 0.60; 95% CI 0.44-0.83; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

In pooled analyses of PARAGLIDE-HF and PARAGON-HF, sacubitril/valsartan reduced cardiovascular and renal events among patients with HF with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction. These data provide support for use of sacubitril/valsartan in patients with HF with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction, particularly among those with an LVEF below normal, regardless of care setting.

Efficacy and safety analysis of angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibition(ARNI)in patients with heart failure: a real-world retrospective study

BACKGROUND

In a large randomized controlled trial (PARADIGM-HF), ARNI has been shown to significantly reduce cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization for patients with reduced ejection fraction in heart failure. This study analyzed the efficacy and safety of ARNI on the basis of various types of heart failure patients in southwestern Sichuan Province.

METHODS

This study included patients with heart failure who were treated at the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College from July 2017 to June 2021. This study analyzed the efficacy and safety of ARNI in the treatment of heart failure, and analyzed the risk factors for readmission after ARNI treatment.

RESULTS

After propensity score matching, a total of 778 patients were included in the study. The readmission rate for heart failure in patients treated with ARNI (8.7%) was significantly lower than that in the standard treatment group (14.5%) (P = 0.023). Both the proportion of patients with increased LVEF and with decreased LVEF were higher in the ARNI treatment group than in the conventional therapy group. Compared with receiving standard medical treatment, combined ARNI treatment resulted in a greater reduction in SBP (-10.00, 95%CI: -24.00-1.50 vs. -7.00, 95%CI: -20.00-4.14; P = 0.016) in HF patients. Combination ARNI therapy did not increase the risk of adverse events. The study found that age (> 65 vs. ≤65 years) (OR = 4.038, 95%CI: 1.360-13.641, P = 0.013) and HFrEF (OR = 3.162, 95%CI: 1.028-9.724, P = 0.045) were independent predictors of readmission in HF patients treated with ARNI.

CONCLUSION

Patients with heart failure treated with ARNI can improve clinical symptoms and reduce the risk of readmitted hospital admission. Age > ~ 65 years and HFrEF were independent predictors of readmission in HF patients treated in ARNI group.

Updates in Cardiorenal Syndrome

Cardiorenal syndrome is a term that refers to a collection of disorders involving both the heart and kidneys, encompassing multi-directional pathways between the 2 organs mediated through low arterial perfusion, venous congestion, and neurohormonal activation. The pathophysiology is complex and includes hemodynamic and neurohormonal changes, but inconsistent findings from recent studies suggest this is very heterogenous disorder. Management for ADHF remains focused on decongestion and neurohormonal blockade to overcome the intense sodium and fluid avidity of the CRS.