1
|
Xie H, Gao L, Fan F, Gong Y, Zhang Y. Research Progress and Clinical Value of Subendocardial Viability Ratio. J Am Heart Assoc 2024; 13:e032614. [PMID: 38471822 PMCID: PMC11009993 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.032614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with ischemic heart disease being a major contributor, either through coronary atherosclerotic plaque-related major vascular disease or coronary microvascular dysfunction. Obstruction of coronary blood flow impairs myocardial perfusion, which may lead to acute myocardial infarction in severe cases. The subendocardial viability ratio, also known as the Buckberg index, is a valuable tool for evaluation of myocardial perfusion because it reflects the balance between myocardial oxygen supply and oxygen demand. The subendocardial viability ratio can effectively evaluate the function of the coronary microcirculation and is associated with arterial stiffness. This ratio also has potential value in predicting adverse cardiovascular events and mortality in various populations. Moreover, the subendocardial viability ratio has demonstrated clinical significance in a range of diseases, including hypertension, aortic stenosis, peripheral arterial disease, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. This review summarizes the applications of the subendocardial viability ratio, its particular progress in the relevant research, and its clinical significance in cardiovascular diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haotai Xie
- Department of CardiologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Lan Gao
- Department of CardiologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- Institute of Cardiovascular DiseasePeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Fangfang Fan
- Department of CardiologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- Institute of Cardiovascular DiseasePeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Yanjun Gong
- Department of CardiologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- Institute of Cardiovascular DiseasePeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of CardiologyPeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
- Institute of Cardiovascular DiseasePeking University First HospitalBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Akbari A, Razmi M, Rafiee M, Watts GF, Sahebkar A. The Effect of Statin Therapy on Serum Uric Acid Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:1726-1739. [PMID: 36748810 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230207124516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elevated concentrations of serum uric acid (SUA) are associated with several conditions, including cardiovascular disease. The present study aimed to estimate the impact of statin therapy on SUA levels through a systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. METHODS PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched on January 14, 2022, to identify eligible clinical trials. The intervention group received statins as monotherapy or in combination with other drugs, and the control group received non-statins or placebo. Studies reporting SUA levels before and after treatment were selected for further analysis. Finally, the data were pooled, and the mean changes in SUA, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides were reported. RESULTS Out of 1269 identified studies, 23 were included in the review. A total of 3928 participants received statin therapy, and 1294 were included in control groups. We found a significant reduction in SUA levels following statin therapy (mean difference (MD) = -26.67 μmol/L with 95% confidence interval (CI) [-44.75, -8.60] (P =0.004)). Atorvastatin (MD = -37.93 μmol/L [-67.71, -8.15]; P < 0.0001), pravastatin (MD = -12.64 μmol/L [-18.64, -6.65]; P < 0.0001), and simvastatin (MD = -5.95 μmol/L [-6.14, -5.80]; P < 0.0001), but not rosuvastatin, were significantly associated with a reduction in SUA levels. An analysis comparing different types of statins showed that pravastatin 20-40 mg/day could significantly reduce SUA when compared to simvastatin 10-20 mg/day (-21.86 μmol/L [-36.33,-7.39]; P =0.003). CONCLUSION Statins were significantly associated with a decrease in SUA levels, particularly atorvastatin, which was found to be most effective in lowering SUA. Atorvastatin may be the most appropriate cholesterol-lowering agent for patients with or at risk of hyperuricemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abolfazl Akbari
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahya Razmi
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahdi Rafiee
- Student Research Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gerald F Watts
- Department of Cardiology, School of Medicine, Perth, Australia and Lipid Disorders Clinic, Cardiometabolic Services, Royal Perth Hospital, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- School of Medicine, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Garg PK, Bhatia HS, Allen TS, Grainger T, Pouncey AL, Dichek D, Virmani R, Golledge J, Allison MA, Powell JT. Assessment of Subclinical Atherosclerosis in Asymptomatic People In Vivo: Measurements Suitable for Biomarker and Mendelian Randomization Studies. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2024; 44:24-47. [PMID: 38150519 PMCID: PMC10753091 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.123.320138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND One strategy to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease is the early detection and treatment of atherosclerosis. This has led to significant interest in studies of subclinical atherosclerosis, using different phenotypes, not all of which are accurate reflections of the presence of asymptomatic atherosclerotic plaques. The aim of part 2 of this series is to provide a review of the existing literature on purported measures of subclinical disease and recommendations concerning which tests may be appropriate in the prevention of incident cardiovascular disease. METHODS We conducted a critical review of measurements used to infer the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis in the major conduit arteries and focused on the predictive value of these tests for future cardiovascular events, independent of conventional cardiovascular risk factors, in asymptomatic people. The emphasis was on studies with >10 000 person-years of follow-up, with meta-analysis of results reporting adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs. The arterial territories were limited to carotid, coronary, aorta, and lower limb arteries. RESULTS In the carotid arteries, the presence of plaque (8 studies) was independently associated with future stroke (pooled HR, 1.89 [1.04-3.44]) and cardiac events (7 studies), with a pooled HR, 1.77 (1.19-2.62). Increased coronary artery calcium (5 studies) was associated with the risk of coronary heart disease events, pooled HR, 1.54 (1.07-2.07) and increasing severity of calcification (by Agaston score) was associated with escalation of risk (13 studies). An ankle/brachial index (ABI) of <0.9, the pooled HR for cardiovascular death from 7 studies was 2.01 (1.43-2.81). There were insufficient studies of either, thoracic or aortic calcium, aortic diameter, or femoral plaque to synthesize the data based on consistent reporting of these measures. CONCLUSIONS The presence of carotid plaque, coronary artery calcium, or abnormal ankle pressures seems to be a valid indicator of the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis and may be considered for use in biomarker, Mendelian randomization and similar studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Parveen K Garg
- Division of Cardiology, University of Southern California, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles (G.P.)
| | - Harpreet S Bhatia
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California San Diego (B.H., A.T., A.M.A.)
| | - Tara S Allen
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California San Diego (B.H., A.T., A.M.A.)
| | - Tabitha Grainger
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London (G.T., P.A.-L., P.J.T.)
| | - Anna L Pouncey
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London (G.T., P.A.-L., P.J.T.)
| | - David Dichek
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle (D.D.)
| | | | - Jonathan Golledge
- Queensland Research Centre for Peripheral Vascular Disease, James Cook University and Townsville University Hospital, Australia (G.J.)
| | - Matthew A Allison
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of California San Diego (B.H., A.T., A.M.A.)
| | - Janet T Powell
- Department of Surgery & Cancer, Imperial College London (G.T., P.A.-L., P.J.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Ren C, Li M. The efficacy of statins in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e35088. [PMID: 37713899 PMCID: PMC10508553 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000035088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large body of research has investigated the use of statins in rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, the therapeutic effects of statins remain uncertain. Thus, we designed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the role of statins in patients with RA. METHODS Databases searched to detect clinical randomized controlled trials or clinical controlled trials on the interaction between statins and RA before January 2020 included PubMed, Web of Sciences, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, Wan Fang Database. Efficacy was measured by Disease Activity Score in 28 Joints (DAS28), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), tenderness of the joint (TJ), swelling of the joint (SJ), and interleukin-6. The level of blood lipid was also evaluated. STATA 12.0 was used for the meta-analysis. The Cochrane method was used for quality assessment. Heterogeneity was considered to determine fixed effects or random effects models. RESULTS Nineteen clinical trials with a total of 22,906 subjects were included in the meta-analysis. Sixteen studies reported a change in DAS28 after statin treatment. The pooled analysis showed that statins reduced DAS28 in RA patients. Change in ESR after statin treatment was reported in 9 studies. The summary analysis showed that statins lowered ESR in RA patients. Twelve studies reported a change in CRP after statin treatment. The results of the entire analysis showed that statins lowered CRP in RA patients. Seven studies reported a change in TJ after statin treatment. The combined analysis showed that statins reduced TJ at RA patients. Six studies reported changes in IL6 after statin therapy. The results showed that statins failed to reduce IL6 in RA patients. Seven studies reported changes in SJ after statin therapy, which showed that statins failed to reduce SJ in RA patients. We also found that statins can reduce blood lipid levels in RA patients. CONCLUSION In conclusion, statins were able to reduce DAS28, ESR, CRP, TJ, and blood lipids. It indicated that stains can benefit patients with RA by inhibiting the expression of inflammatory factors and reducing the levels of lipids in the blood. Our study may offer a new perspective on the treatment of RA and provide research ideas for future larger multi-center clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Conglin Ren
- Taizhou Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taizhou, China
| | - Mingshuang Li
- Taizhou Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Taizhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Nechyporenko A, Tedla YG, Korcarz C, Tattersall MC, Greenland P, Gepner AD. Association of statin therapy with progression of carotid arterial stiffness: the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). Hypertens Res 2023; 46:679-687. [PMID: 36434289 DOI: 10.1038/s41440-022-01095-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Arterial stiffness progresses with age and is a predictor of adverse cardiovascular disease events. Studies examining associations of statin therapy with arterial stiffness have yielded mixed results. Associations between the duration and intensity of statin therapy and arterial stiffness have not been studied in a prospective multiethnic cohort. MESA participants (n = 1242) with statin medication use data at each exam (1-5) and who had undergone B-mode carotid ultrasound at baseline and at Exam 5 after (mean ± [SD]) 9.4 ± 0.5 years were analyzed. Carotid arterial stiffness was measured using the distensibility coefficient (DC) and Young's elastic modulus (YEM). Linear regression models were used to evaluate associations between DC and YEM and statin treatment duration and intensity. At baseline, participants were 66.5 ± 8.1 years old, 41% female, 36% White, 30% African American, 14% Chinese American, and 20% Hispanic. The mean baseline low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) was 149.5 ± 14.5 mg/dL. After adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, and CVD risk factors, the percent changes in DC and YEM were found to not be significantly different in individuals on statin therapy at any combination of visits (1-4) compared to participants never on statin therapy (all p > 0.32). There were also no differences in the percent change in DC and YEM based on statin therapy intensity by quartile (all p > 0.14) over the 10-year follow-up period. Based on the aforementioned results, statin therapy was not associated with changes in carotid artery stiffness over nearly a decade of follow-up regardless of therapy duration or intensity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anatoliy Nechyporenko
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Yacob G Tedla
- Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.,Division of Epidemiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Claudia Korcarz
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Philip Greenland
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Adam D Gepner
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA. .,William S. Middleton VA Hospital, Madison, WI, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Beneficial Effect of Statin Therapy on Arterial Stiffness. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:5548310. [PMID: 33860033 PMCID: PMC8026295 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5548310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Arterial stiffness describes the increased rigidity of the arterial wall that occurs as a consequence of biological aging and several diseases. Numerous studies have demonstrated that parameters to assess arterial stiffness, especially pulse-wave velocity, are predictive of those individuals that will suffer cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Statin therapy may be a pharmacological strategy to improve arterial elasticity. It has been shown that the positive benefits of statin therapy on cardiovascular disease is attributable not only to their lipid-lowering capacity but also to various pleiotropic effects, such as their anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, antioxidant, and antithrombotic properties. Additionally, statins reduce endothelial dysfunction, improve vascular and myocardial remodeling, and stabilize atherosclerotic plaque. The aim of the present review was to summarize the evidence from human studies showing the effects of statins on arterial stiffness.
Collapse
|
7
|
Chhibber A, Hansen S, Biskupiak J. Statin use and mortality in rheumatoid arthritis: an incident user cohort study. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2021; 27:296-305. [PMID: 33645241 PMCID: PMC10390919 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2021.27.3.296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have higher rates of mortality attributed to the inflammatory nature and the associated burden of cardiovascular complications. Previous research indicates that treatment with statin therapy may play a role in reducing the mortality rate of RA patients, but similar evidence in U.S. patients is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between statin use and overall mortality among RA patients in the United States. METHODS: A population-based study of RA patients with incident statin use was conducted. Patients aged ≥ 18 years with a diagnosis of RA between January 2007 and December 2015 were included and reviewed for the use of statin medication. Time stratified propensity score matching was used to adequately balance the comparison groups. Logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate the association. RESULTS: 19,614 people fulfilled the inclusion criteria for the study out of which 2,089 were statin users. There were 1,883 statin users that were matched to 1,883 statin nonusers. Baseline characteristics were well balanced across the 2 groups after matching. The hazards ratio for all-cause mortality in patients with RA for statin users was 0.72 (95% CI = 0.56-0.91; P = 0.008) compared with statin nonusers. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with no use of statins, current statin use is associated with 28% lower risk of mortality in RA patients. Decision makers and providers should consider and support integration of these results into the current clinical guidelines for delivering quality health care to RA patients. DISCLOSURES: No outside funding supported this study. The authors received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. The authors have no affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial interest or nonfinancial interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in this manuscript.
Collapse
|
8
|
Aranow C, Cush J, Bolster MB, Striebich CC, Dall'era M, Mackay M, Olech E, Frech T, Box J, Keating R, Wasko MC, St Clair W, Kivitz A, Huang W, Ricketts P, Welch B, Callahan S, Spychala M, Boyle K, York K, Keyes-Elstein L, Goldmuntz E, Diamond B, Davidson A. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase II, randomized study of lovastatin therapy in the treatment of mildly active rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020; 59:1505-1513. [PMID: 31628482 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/kez471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme-A (HMG Co-A) reductase inhibitors (statins) are standard treatment for hyperlipidaemia. In addition to lipid-lowering abilities, statins exhibit multiple anti-inflammatory effects. The objectives of this study were to determine whether treatment of patients with RA with lovastatin decreased CRP or reduced disease activity. METHODS We conducted a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled 12 week trial of lovastatin vs placebo in 64 RA patients with mild clinical disease activity but an elevated CRP. The primary efficacy end point was the reduction in mean log CRP. Secondary end points included disease activity, RF and anti-CCP antibody titres. Mechanistic end points included levels of serum cytokines. Safety was assessed; hepatic and muscle toxicities were of particular interest. RESULTS Baseline features were similar between groups. No significant difference in mean log CRP reduction between the two groups was observed, and disease activity did not change from baseline in either treatment group. Mechanistic analyses did not reveal significant changes in any biomarkers. A post hoc analysis of subjects not using biologic therapy demonstrated a significantly greater proportion achieving ⩾20% reduction in CRP from baseline in the lovastatin group compared with placebo (P-value = 0.007). No difference was observed in subjects receiving biologics. Lovastatin was well tolerated with no serious safety concerns. CONCLUSION This study showed no anti-inflammatory or clinical effects on RA disease activity after 12 weeks of treatment with lovastatin. Lovastatin had a modest effect on CRP in subjects not using biologics, suggesting statins may be anti-inflammatory in selected patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, http://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT00302952.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia Aranow
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, USA
| | - John Cush
- Division of Rheumatology, Baylor University Medical Center, Dallas, USA
| | - Marcy B Bolster
- Division of Rheumatology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, USA
| | | | - Maria Dall'era
- Division of Rheumatology, University of California, San Francisco, USA
| | - Meggan Mackay
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, USA
| | - Ewa Olech
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, USA
| | - Tracy Frech
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Internal Medicine, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Jane Box
- Box Arthritis & Rheumatology of the Carolinas, Charlotte, USA
| | - Richard Keating
- Division of Rheumatology, Scripps Green Hospital, La Jolla, USA
| | - Mary Chester Wasko
- Division of Rheumatology, Western Pennsylvania Hospital, Pittsburgh, USA
| | - William St Clair
- Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, USA
| | - Alan Kivitz
- Altoona Center for Clinical Research, Duncansville, USA
| | - Weiquang Huang
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, USA
| | | | - Beverly Welch
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, USA
| | - Sherrie Callahan
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, USA
| | | | - Karen Boyle
- Rho Federal Systems Division, Chapel Hill, USA
| | - Kate York
- Rho Federal Systems Division, Chapel Hill, USA
| | | | - Ellen Goldmuntz
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, USA
| | - Betty Diamond
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, USA
| | - Anne Davidson
- The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, Manhasset, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Carbone F, Bonaventura A, Liberale L, Paolino S, Torre F, Dallegri F, Montecucco F, Cutolo M. Atherosclerosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Promoters and Opponents. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol 2020; 58:1-14. [PMID: 30259381 DOI: 10.1007/s12016-018-8714-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Substantial epidemiological data identified cardiovascular (CV) diseases as a main cause of mortality in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In light of this, RA patients may benefit from additional CV risk screening and more intensive prevention strategies. Nevertheless, current algorithms for CV risk stratification still remain tailored on general population and are burdened by a significant underestimation of CV risk in RA patients. Acute CV events in patients with RA are largely related to an accelerated atherosclerosis. As pathophysiological features of atherosclerosis overlap those occurring in the inflamed RA synovium, the understanding of those common pathways represents an urgent need and a leading challenge for CV prevention in patients with RA. Genetic background, metabolic status, gut microbiome, and systemic inflammation have been also suggested as additional key pro-atherosclerotic factors. The aim of this narrative review is to update the current knowledge about pathophysiology of atherogenesis in RA patients and potential anti-atherosclerotic effects of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federico Carbone
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Aldo Bonaventura
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Luca Liberale
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zürich, 12 Wagistrasse, 8952, Schlieren, Switzerland
| | - Sabrina Paolino
- Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesco Torre
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132, Genoa, Italy.,Clinic of Emergency Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Franco Dallegri
- First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa-Italian Cardiovascular Network, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132, Genoa, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Montecucco
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa-Italian Cardiovascular Network, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132, Genoa, Italy.,First Clinic of Internal Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Maurizio Cutolo
- IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino Genoa, 10 Largo Benzi, 16132, Genoa, Italy. .,Research Laboratory and Academic Division of Clinical Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine and Centre of Excellence for Biomedical Research (CEBR), University of Genoa, San Martino Polyclinic Hospital, Genoa, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Urban MH, Kreibich N, Gleiss A, Funk GC, Hartl S, Burghuber OC. Effects of roflumilast on arterial stiffness in COPD (ELASTIC): A randomized trial. Respirology 2020; 26:153-160. [PMID: 32725799 DOI: 10.1111/resp.13914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Cardiovascular risk is substantially increased in patients with COPD and can be quantified via arterial stiffness. The PDE-IV inhibitor roflumilast revealed a potential reduction of COPD-related cardiovascular risk. We aimed to investigate the effects of roflumilast on arterial stiffness by quantification of pulse wave velocity (PWV) in stable COPD. METHODS In this randomized placebo-controlled trial, 80 COPD patients received roflumilast or placebo for 24 weeks. The primary outcome was the change in cf-PWV. Secondary outcomes comprised markers of vascular function (e.g. Aix and RHI), systemic inflammation (e.g. IL-6 and TNF-α) and clinical characteristics of COPD (e.g. CAT and 6MWT). RESULTS A total of 33 and 34 patients completed the roflumilast and placebo arm, respectively (age, median (IQR): 64.5 (61-69.5) vs 64.5 (56-72) years; FEV1 , median (IQR): 34.5 (25.5-48.6) vs 35.3 (27-46.8) % predicted; 6MWT, median (IQR): 428 (340-558) vs 456 (364-570) m). Change from baseline PWV did not show a significant difference between roflumilast and placebo (+5.0 (95% CI: -2.0 to +13.0) vs 0.0 (95% CI: -7.0 to +7.0)%, P = 0.268). Roflumilast did not improve markers of vascular function or systemic inflammation. We observed a significant improvement in change from baseline 6MWT with roflumilast versus placebo (+53.0 (95% CI: +19.1 to +86.9) vs -0.92 (95% CI: -35.1 to +33.3) m, P = 0.026). CONCLUSION Our study revealed no beneficial effects of roflumilast on arterial stiffness. Further studies are needed to test a potential improvement of exercise capacity with roflumilast in COPD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias H Urban
- Department of Internal and Respiratory Medicine, Krankenhaus Nord - Klinik Floridsdorf and Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for COPD and Respiratory Epidemiology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nicole Kreibich
- Department of Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Andreas Gleiss
- Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg-Christian Funk
- Department of Internal and Respiratory Medicine, Wilhelminenspital, Vienna, Austria.,Karl-Landsteiner Institute for Respiratory Research and Pneumological Oncology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sylvia Hartl
- Department of Respiratory Medicine and Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for COPD and Respiratory Epidemiology, Otto-Wagner-Hospital and Sigmund Freud University, Medical School, Vienna, Austria
| | - Otto C Burghuber
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine and Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for COPD and Respiratory Epidemiology, Otto-Wagner-Hospital and Sigmund Freud University, Medical School, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Schol-Gelok S, de Maat MPM, Biedermann JS, van Gelder T, Leebeek FWG, Lijfering WM, van der Meer FJM, Rijken DC, Versmissen J, Kruip MJHA. Rosuvastatin use increases plasma fibrinolytic potential: a randomised clinical trial. Br J Haematol 2020; 190:916-922. [PMID: 32301122 PMCID: PMC7539918 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.16648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We conducted a study to assess the effect of rosuvastatin use on fibrinolysis in patients with previous venous thromboembolism (VTE). This was a post hoc analysis within the STAtins Reduce Thrombophilia (START) study (NCT01613794). Plasma fibrinolytic potential, fibrinogen, plasmin inhibitor, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) and thrombin‐activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) were measured before and after four weeks of rosuvastatin or no treatment in participants with prior confirmed VTE, after ending anticoagulant therapy. In the non‐rosuvastatin group (n = 121), plasma fibrinolytic potential and individual fibrinolysis parameters did not change at the end of the study versus the baseline, whereas in the rosuvastatin group (n = 126), plasma fibrinolytic potential increased: the mean clot lysis time decreased by 8·75 min (95% CI −13·8 to −3·72), and plasmin inhibitor levels and TAFI activity were lower at the end of the study (−0·05 U/ml; 95% CI −0·07 to −0·02 and −4·77%; 95% CI −6·81 to −2·73, respectively). PAI‐1 levels did not change and fibrinogen levels were 0·17 g/l (95% CI 0·04–0·29) higher. In participants with prior VTE, rosuvastatin use led to an increased fibrinolytic potential compared with non‐statin use. Our findings support the need for further studies on the possible role for statins in the secondary prevention of VTE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Schol-Gelok
- Departments of Hospital Pharmacy and Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Moniek P M de Maat
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joseph S Biedermann
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Teun van Gelder
- Departments of Hospital Pharmacy and Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Frank W G Leebeek
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Willem M Lijfering
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Felix J M van der Meer
- Department of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Dingeman C Rijken
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jorie Versmissen
- Departments of Hospital Pharmacy and Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marieke J H A Kruip
- Department of Haematology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.,Thrombosis Service Star-shl, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Gepner AD, Lazar K, Hulle CV, Korcarz CE, Asthana S, Carlsson CM. Effects of Simvastatin on Augmentation Index Are Transient: Outcomes From a Randomized Controlled Trial. J Am Heart Assoc 2019; 8:e009792. [PMID: 31607205 PMCID: PMC6818042 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.118.009792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Statins improve endothelial function, but their effects on arterial stiffness and aortic blood pressure in middle‐aged adults are uncertain. Methods and Results This was a prospective, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of middle‐aged (40‐72 years old) adults who were randomly assigned to receive simvastatin 40 mg (n=44) or placebo (n=44) daily for 18 months to evaluate impact on dementia‐related biomarkers (primary end points) and measures of vascular health (secondary end points). This analysis focuses on the predetermined secondary end points of changes in central aortic blood pressure, aortic augmentation index, and brachial artery flow‐mediated dilation. Measurements were performed at baseline and after 6, 12, and 18 months. Multivariable models were used to identify predictors of these prespecified vascular end points. Study groups were similar at baseline; low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol declined in the statin group but not in the placebo group (P<0.01). There were no significant differences in changes in central blood pressure parameters or flow‐mediated dilation (all P>0.2). After 12 months, augmentation index decreased from baseline in the statin group compared with the placebo group (−2.3% [5.5%] versus 1.2% [5.7%], P=0.007), but by 18 months the response in both groups trend toward baseline (−1.1% [5.8%] versus 0.2% [4.8%], P=0.3). Low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was not associated with changes in augmentation index at any time point. Conclusions Statin therapy led to a short‐term reduction in augmentation index after 12 months, but this effect did not persist after 18 months despite continued reduction in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. These findings suggest that statins may have a transient effect on aortic stiffness. Clinical Trial Registration URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/. Unique identifier: NCT00939822.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adam D. Gepner
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans HospitalMadisonWI
- Department of MedicineSchool of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| | - Karen Lazar
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans HospitalMadisonWI
- Department of MedicineSchool of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| | - Carol Van Hulle
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans HospitalMadisonWI
- Department of MedicineSchool of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| | - Claudia E. Korcarz
- Department of MedicineSchool of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| | - Sanjay Asthana
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans HospitalMadisonWI
- Department of MedicineSchool of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| | - Cynthia M. Carlsson
- William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans HospitalMadisonWI
- Department of MedicineSchool of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of WisconsinMadisonWI
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Bordy R, Totoson P, Prati C, Marie C, Wendling D, Demougeot C. Microvascular endothelial dysfunction in rheumatoid arthritis. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2019; 14:404-420. [PMID: 29855620 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-018-0022-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The systemic autoimmune disease rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by increased cardiovascular mortality and morbidity and is an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) result from accelerated atherogenesis, which is a consequence of endothelial dysfunction in the early stages of the disease. Endothelial dysfunction is a functional and reversible alteration of endothelial cells and leads to a shift in the properties of the endothelium towards reduced vasodilation, a pro-inflammatory state, and proliferative and prothrombotic properties. In RA, endothelial dysfunction can occur in the large vessels (such as the conduit arteries) and in the small vessels of the microvasculature, which supply oxygen and nutrients to the tissue and control inflammation, repair and fluid exchange with the surrounding tissues. Growing evidence suggests that microvascular endothelial dysfunction contributes to CVD development, as it precedes and predicts the development of conduit artery atherosclerosis and associated risk factors. As such, numerous studies have investigated microvascular endothelial dysfunction in RA, including its link with disease activity, disease duration and inflammation, the effect of treatments on endothelial function, and possible circulating biomarkers of microvascular endothelial dysfunction. Such findings could have important implications in the cardiovascular risk management of patients with RA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romain Bordy
- PEPITE EA4267, FHU INCREASE, Universitaire Bourgogne Franche-Comté, UFR Santé, F-25000, Besançon, France
| | - Perle Totoson
- PEPITE EA4267, FHU INCREASE, Universitaire Bourgogne Franche-Comté, UFR Santé, F-25000, Besançon, France
| | - Clément Prati
- PEPITE EA4267, FHU INCREASE, Universitaire Bourgogne Franche-Comté, UFR Santé, F-25000, Besançon, France.,Service de Rhumatologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional et Universitaire de Besançon, F-25000, Besançon, France
| | - Christine Marie
- INSERM UMR1093 CAPS, Universitaire Bourgogne Franche-Comté, UFR des Sciences de Santé, F-21000, Dijon, France
| | - Daniel Wendling
- Service de Rhumatologie, Centre Hospitalier Régional et Universitaire de Besançon, F-25000, Besançon, France.,EA 4266, Universitaire Bourgogne Franche-Comté, UFR Santé, F-25000, Besançon, France
| | - Céline Demougeot
- PEPITE EA4267, FHU INCREASE, Universitaire Bourgogne Franche-Comté, UFR Santé, F-25000, Besançon, France.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Muñoz ÓM, Reyna Carrasco ÓA, Castelblanco SM, García ÁA, Fernández-Avila DG. Impacto terapéutico de las estatinas en el perfil lipídico y riesgo cardiovascular en pacientes con artritis reumatoide: Revisión sistemática de la literatura y metaanálisis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rcreu.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
15
|
Tam LHP, Shang Q, Li EKM, Wong PCH, Kwok KY, Kun EWL, Yim ICW, Lee VKL, Yip RML, Pang SHT, Lao VWN, Mak QWY, Cheng ITH, Lau XSL, Li TKY, Zhu TY, Lee APW, Tam LS. Effect of Treat-to-target Strategies Aiming at Remission of Arterial Stiffness in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Study. J Rheumatol 2018; 45:1229-1239. [DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.171128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Objective.To determine the efficacy of 2 tight control treatment strategies aiming at Simplified Disease Activity Score (SDAI) remission (SDAI ≤ 3.3) compared to 28-joint count Disease Activity Score (DAS28) remission (DAS28 < 2.6) in the prevention of arterial stiffness in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Methods.This was an open-label study in which 120 patients with early RA were randomized to receive 1 year of tight control treatment. Group 1 (n = 60) aimed to achieve SDAI ≤ 3.3 and Group 2 (n = 60), DAS28 < 2.6. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) and augmentation index (AIx) were measured at baseline and 12 months. A posthoc analysis was also performed to ascertain whether achieving sustained remission could prevent progression in arterial stiffness.Results.The proportions of patients receiving methotrexate monotherapy were significantly lower in Group 1 throughout the study period. At 12 months, the proportions of patients achieving DAS28 and SDAI remission, and the change in PWV and AIx, were comparable between the 2 groups. In view of the lack of differences between the 2 groups, a posthoc analysis was performed at Month 12, including all 110 patients with PWV, to elucidate the independent predictors associated with the change in PWV. Multivariate analysis revealed that achieving sustained DAS28 remission at months 6, 9, and 12 and a shorter disease duration were independent explanatory variables associated with less progression of PWV.Conclusion.With limited access to biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, treatment efforts toward DAS28 and SDAI remission had similar effects in preventing the progression of arterial stiffness at 1 year. However, achieving sustained DAS28 remission was associated with a significantly greater improvement in PWV. [Clinical Trial registration: Clinicaltrial.govNCT01768923.]
Collapse
|
16
|
Soulaidopoulos S, Nikiphorou E, Dimitroulas T, Kitas GD. The Role of Statins in Disease Modification and Cardiovascular Risk in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:24. [PMID: 29473041 PMCID: PMC5809441 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune, inflammatory disorder associated with excess cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. A complex interplay between traditional risk factors (dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, arterial hypertension, obesity, smoking) and chronic inflammation is implicated in the development of premature atherosclerosis and consequently in the higher incidence of cardiovascular events observed in RA patients. Despite the acknowledgment of elevated cardiovascular risk among RA individuals, its management remains suboptimal. While statin administration has a crucial role in primary and secondary cardiovascular disease prevention strategies as lipid modulating factors, there are limited data concerning the precise benefit of such therapy in patients with RA. Systemic inflammation and anti-inflammatory treatments influence lipid metabolism, leading to variable states of dyslipidemia in RA. Hence, the indications for statin therapy for cardiovascular prevention may differ between RA patients and the general population and the precise role of lipid lowering treatment in RA is yet to be established. Furthermore, some evidence supports a potential beneficial impact of statins on RA disease activity, attributable to their anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. This review discusses existing data on the efficacy of statins in reducing RA-related cardiovascular risk as well as their potential beneficial effects on disease activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stergios Soulaidopoulos
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Elena Nikiphorou
- Department of Academic Rheumatology, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Rheumatology, Whittington NHS Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Theodoros Dimitroulas
- 4th Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - George D. Kitas
- Arthritis Research UK Centre for Epidemiology, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Rheumatology, Dudley Group NHS Fountation Trust, Dudley, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Anyfanti P, Triantafyllou A, Gkaliagkousi E, Triantafyllou G, Koletsos N, Chatzimichailidou S, Panagopoulos P, Botis I, Aslanidis S, Douma S. Subendocardial viability ratio in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: comparison with healthy controls and identification of prognostic factors. Clin Rheumatol 2017; 36:1229-1236. [PMID: 28455826 DOI: 10.1007/s10067-017-3659-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2017] [Revised: 04/16/2017] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac involvement is common in rheumatoid arthritis. Subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR) is a non-invasive measure of microvascular coronary perfusion, yet it remains unclear whether it is affected in rheumatoid arthritis patients. We additionally sought predictors of SEVR in rheumatoid arthritis among a wide range of disease-related parameters, cardiac and hemodynamic factors, and markers of atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, and endothelial dysfunction. SEVR was estimated in rheumatoid arthritis patients and healthy controls by applanation tonometry, which was also used to evaluate arterial stiffness (pulse wave velocity and augmentation index). In the rheumatoid arthritis group, carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) was additionally estimated by ultrasound, cardiac and hemodynamic parameters by impedance cardiography, and endothelial dysfunction by measurement of asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA). In a total of 122 participants, SEVR was lower among 91 patients with rheumatoid arthritis compared to 31 controls (141.4 ± 21.9 vs 153.1 ± 18.7%, p = 0.009) and remained so among 29 rheumatoid arthritis patients without hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular diseases, compared to the control group (139.7 ± 21.7 vs 153.1 ± 18.7%, p = 0.013). SEVR did not significantly correlate with arterial stiffness, cIMT, ADMA, or disease-related parameters. Multivariate analysis revealed gender (p = 0.007), blood pressure (p = 0.028), heart rate (p = 0.025), cholesterol levels (p = 0.008), cardiac index (p < 0.001) and left ventricular ejection time (p = 0.004) as independent predictors of SEVR among patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis exhibit lower values of SEVR compared to healthy individuals. Cardiac and hemodynamic parameters, rather than functional indices of endothelial and macrovascular dysfunction, may be useful as predictors of myocardial perfusion in rheumatoid arthritis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Anyfanti
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Areti Triantafyllou
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Eugenia Gkaliagkousi
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Triantafyllou
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Koletsos
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Sophia Chatzimichailidou
- Rheumatology Department-2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Panagopoulos
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Botis
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Spyros Aslanidis
- Rheumatology Department-2nd Propedeutic Department of Internal Medicine, Hippokration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stella Douma
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Ring Road Nea Efkarpia, 564 29, Thessaloniki, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Hussain SA, Abood SJ, Gorial FI. The adjuvant use of calcium fructoborate and borax with etanercept in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Pilot study. JOURNAL OF COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE RESEARCH 2016; 6:58-64. [PMID: 28163961 PMCID: PMC5289089 DOI: 10.5455/jice.20161204021549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 11/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: This study was designed to evaluate the effects calcium fructoborate (CFB) and sodium tetraborate (NTB) as supplements in Iraqi patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) maintained on etanercept. Materials and Methods: A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial with 60 days treatment period was carried out at Baghdad Teaching Hospital, Medical city, Baghdad, Iraq. Eighty RA patients were randomized into three groups to receive either 220 mg/day CFB, 55 mg/day NTB in capsule dosage form (equivalent to 6 mg elemental Boron), or placebo formula once daily. Only 72 patients completed the study. All patients were clinically evaluated utilizing DAS28-erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), simple disease activity index-C-reactive protein (CRP), and clinical disease activity index scores at baseline, and at the end of the study. Venous blood was obtained at baseline and after 60 days, and utilized for the measurement of ESR, hemoglobin, in addition to evaluation of high-sensitivity CRP (hsCRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1α (IL-1α) and IL-6. Results: After 60 days, both types of boron significantly improve the clinical scores, in association with significant decrease in the serum levels of ESR, hsCRP, IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α with remarkable superiority for calcium fructoborate (CFB) over sodium tetraborate (NTB), compared to baseline and placebo-treated group. Conclusion: The use of boron, as adjuvant with etanercept, has potentiated therapeutic outcomes in RA patients, and may be a new strategy to improve treatment, and avoid the problems associated with biologics utilized in RA treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sattar Jabir Abood
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Faiq Isho Gorial
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Impact of Statin Therapy on Plasma Uric Acid Concentrations: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Drugs 2016; 76:947-56. [DOI: 10.1007/s40265-016-0591-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
|
20
|
Sahebkar A, Pećin I, Tedeschi-Reiner E, Derosa G, Maffioli P, Reiner Ž. Effects of statin therapy on augmentation index as a measure of arterial stiffness: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Cardiol 2016; 212:160-8. [PMID: 27038725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Revised: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of statin therapy on augmentation index (AIx) as a measure of arterial stiffness using a meta-analysis of clinical trials. METHODS The search included PubMed-Medline, Embase, SCOPUS, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases to identify randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of statin therapy on arterial stiffness measured as AIx. A random-effects model and generic inverse variance method were used for quantitative data synthesis. Sensitivity analysis was conducted using the leave-one-out method. Random-effects meta-regression was performed using unrestricted maximum likelihood method to evaluate the impact of potential confounders. RESULTS 18 trials examining the effects of statin therapy on arterial stiffness were included. A significant reduction in aortic AIx following statin therapy was proven (WMD: -2.40%, 95% CI: -4.59, -0.21, p=0.032; I(2): 51.20%). HR-adjusted AIx 75% values also revealed a significant improvement by statin therapy (WMD: -5.04%, 95% CI: -7.81, -2.27, p<0.001; I(2): 0%), but not when analysis was restricted to unadjusted AIx values (WMD: -2.30%, 95% CI: -4.83, 0.23, p=0.075; I(2): 53.83%). There was no significant change in carotid (WMD: -2.75%, 95% CI: -8.06, 2.56, p=0.309; I(2): 26.86%) and peripheral (WMD: 0.25%, 95% CI: -3.31, 3.82, p=0.889; I(2): 72.19%) AIx due to statin treatment. There was also no difference in the effect size calculated for different statins subgroups. The impact of statins on AIx was independent of LDL-cholesterol level (slope: 0.05; 95% CI: -0.02, 0.13; p=0.181). CONCLUSION Statin therapy causes a significant reduction in aortic AIx which is independent of LDL-cholesterol changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Metabolic Research Centre, Royal Perth Hospital, School of Medicine and Pharmacology, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Ivan Pećin
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, Department of Internal Medicine, Kišpatićeva 12, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Eugenia Tedeschi-Reiner
- University Hospital Center Sestre Milosrdnice, University of Osijek, Vinogradska cesta 29, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Giuseppe Derosa
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico S. Matteo, Pavia, Italy; Center for the Study of Endocrine-Metabolic Pathophysiology and Clinical Research, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; Molecular Medicine Laboratory, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Pamela Maffioli
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico S. Matteo, Pavia, Italy; PhD School in Experimental Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Željko Reiner
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, Department of Internal Medicine, Kišpatićeva 12, Zagreb, Croatia.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Koniari I, Mavrilas D, Apostolakis E, Papadimitriou E, Papadaki H, Papalois A, Poimenidi E, Xanthopoulou I, Hahalis G, Alexopoulos D. Inhibition of Atherosclerosis Progression, Intimal Hyperplasia, and Oxidative Stress by Simvastatin and Ivabradine May Reduce Thoracic Aorta's Stiffness in Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol Ther 2015; 21:412-22. [PMID: 26612090 DOI: 10.1177/1074248415617289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
AIMS This study aims to evaluate atherosclerosis, oxidative stress, and arterial stiffness attenuation by simvastatin and ivabradine in hyperlipidemic rabbits. METHODS AND RESULTS Forty rabbits were randomly divided into 4 groups: atherogenic diet (group C), atherogenic diet plus simvastatin (group S), atherogenic diet plus ivabradine (group I), and atherogenic diet plus simvastatin and ivabradine (group S + I). After 9 weeks, rabbits were euthanized and descending aortas excised for mechanical testing. Atherogenic diet induced the development of significant atherosclerotic lesions in group C animals but in none of groups S, I, and S + I. RAM-11 and HHF-35-positive cells were significantly reduced in groups S, I, and S + I compared with group C (P < .001). A significant neointimal hyperplasia and intima-media ratio reduction was demonstrated in groups S (P = .015 and P < .001), I (P = .021 and P < .001), and S + I (P = .019 and P < .001) compared with group C. Protein nitrotyrosine levels were significantly decreased in group S compared with group C (P = .009), and reactive oxygen species levels were decreased in group I compared with group C (P = .011). Aortic stiffness was significantly reduced in groups S, I, and S + I compared with group C (P = .003, P = .011, and P = .029). CONCLUSION Simvastatin and ivabradine significantly inhibited intimal hyperplasia and oxidative stress contributing to aortic stiffness reduction in hyperlipidemic rabbits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Koniari
- Department of Cardiology, Patras University Hospital, Rion Patras, Greece
| | - Dimosthenis Mavrilas
- Laboratory of Biomechanics and Biomedical Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering & Aeronautics, University of Patras, Rion Patras, Greece
| | | | - Evangelia Papadimitriou
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | - Helen Papadaki
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Patras, Rion Patras, Greece
| | | | - Evangelia Poimenidi
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, University of Patras, Patras, Greece
| | | | - George Hahalis
- Department of Cardiology, Patras University Hospital, Rion Patras, Greece
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Xing B, Yin YF, Zhao LD, Wang L, Zheng WJ, Chen H, Wu QJ, Tang FL, Zhang FC, Shan G, Zhang X. Effect of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme a reductase inhibitor on disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2015; 94:e572. [PMID: 25715256 PMCID: PMC4554148 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000000572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (also known as statins) are widely used as lipid-lowering agents in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to reduce their cardiovascular risk. However, whether they have an effect on RA disease activity is controversial. This study aimed to investigate the effect of statins on disease activity in RA patients. A systematic literature review was performed using the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, ISI WEB of Knowledge, Scopus, and Clinical Trials Register databases. Only prospective randomized controlled trials or controlled clinical trials comparing the efficacy of statins with placebo on adult RA patients were included. The efficacy was measured according to the ACR criteria, EULAR criteria, DAS28, HAQ score, ESR, or CRP. The Jadad score was used for quality assessment. The inverse variance method was used to analyze continuous outcomes. A fixed-effects model was used when there was no significant heterogeneity; otherwise, a random-effects model was used. For stability of results, we performed leave-one-study-out sensitivity analysis by omitting individual studies one at a time from the meta-analysis. Publication bias was assessed using Egger test. A total 13 studies involving 737 patients were included in the meta-analysis; 11 studies were included in the meta-analysis based on DAS28, while the other 2 studies were only included in the meta-analysis based on ESR or CRP. The standardized mean difference (SMD) in DAS28 between the statin group and the placebo group was -0.55 (95% CI [-0.83, -0.26], P = 0.0002), with an I2 value of 68%. Subgroup analysis showed that patients with more active disease tended to benefit more from statin therapy (SMD -0.73, P = 0.01) than patients with moderate or low disease activity (SMD -0.38, P = 0.03). Statin therapy also significantly reduced tender joint counts, swollen joint counts, ESR, and CRP compared with placebo, but the reduction in HAQ score and VAS was not significant (P > 0.05). This meta-analysis suggested that statin therapy might be effective in the reduction of RA disease activity measured by DAS28, TJC, SJC, as well as ESR and CRP.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xing
- From the Department of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology (BX, YFY, LDZ, LW, WJZ, HC, QJW, FLT, FCZ, XZ), Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Key Laboratory of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology, Ministry of Education; and Department of Epidemiology (GS), Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Tan W, Madhavan K, Hunter KS, Park D, Stenmark KR. Vascular stiffening in pulmonary hypertension: cause or consequence? (2013 Grover Conference series). Pulm Circ 2014; 4:560-80. [PMID: 25610594 PMCID: PMC4278618 DOI: 10.1086/677370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 05/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have indicated that systemic arterial stiffening is a precursor to hypertension and that hypertension, in turn, can perpetuate arterial stiffening. Pulmonary artery (PA) stiffening is also well documented to occur in pulmonary hypertension (PH), and there is evidence that pulmonary vascular stiffness (PVS) may be a better predictor of outcome than pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). We have hypothesized that the decreased flow-damping function of elastic PAs in PH likely initiates and/or perpetuates dysfunction of pulmonary microvasculature. Recent studies have shown that large-vessel stiffening increases flow pulsatility in the distal pulmonary vasculature, leading to endothelial dysfunction within a proinflammatory, vasoconstricting, and profibrogenic environment. The intricate role of stiffening-stimulated high pulsatile flow in endothelial cell dysfunction includes stepwise molecular events underlying PA hypertrophy, inflammation, endothelial-mesenchymal transition, and fibrosis. In addition to contributing to microenvironmental alterations of the distal vasculature, disordered proximal-distal PA coupling likely also plays a role in increasing ventricular afterload, ultimately causing right ventricle (RV) dysfunction and death. Current therapeutic treatments do not provide a realistic approach to destiffening arteries and, thus, to potentially abrogating the effects of high pulsatile flow on the distal pulmonary vasculature or the increased work imposed by stiffening on the RV. Scrutinizing the effect of PA stiffening on high pulsatile flow-induced cellular and molecular changes, and vice versa, might lead to important new therapeutic options that abrogate PA remodeling and PH development. With a clear understanding that PA stiffening may contribute to the progression of PH to an irreversible state by contributing to chronic microvascular damage in lungs, future studies should be aimed first at defining the underlying mechanisms leading to PA stiffening and then at improved treatment approaches based on these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Tan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Cardiovascular Pulmonary Research Laboratories, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado, USA
| | - Krishna Madhavan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kendall S. Hunter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Daewon Park
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Kurt R. Stenmark
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- Cardiovascular Pulmonary Research Laboratories, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Timár O, Szekanecz Z, Kerekes G, Végh J, Oláh AV, Nagy G, Csiki Z, Dankó K, Szamosi S, Németh Á, Soltész P, Szücs G. Rosuvastatin improves impaired endothelial function, lowers high sensitivity CRP, complement and immuncomplex production in patients with systemic sclerosis--a prospective case-series study. Arthritis Res Ther 2014; 15:R105. [PMID: 24008003 PMCID: PMC3978919 DOI: 10.1186/ar4285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2012] [Revised: 02/15/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction We studied the effect of rosuvastatin on endothelial and macrovascular function, cardiovascular risk factors and the complement pathway in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). Methods Altogether 28 patients with SSc underwent laboratory and complex vascular assessments before and after six months of 20 mg rosuvastatin treatment. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery, as well as carotid artery intima-media thickness (ccIMT), carotid-femoral and aorto-femoral pulse wave-velocity (PWV) were analyzed by ECG-synchronized ultrasound. Ankle-brachial index (ABI) was determined by Doppler, and forearm skin microcirculation was assessed by Laser Doppler perfusion monitoring. Results Brachial artery FMD significantly improved upon rosuvastatin therapy (2.2% ± 3.3% before versus 5.7% ± 3.9% after treatment, P = 0.0002). With regard to patient subsets, FMD significantly improved in the 21 lcSSc patients (from 2.1% to 5.6%, P = 0.001). In the seven dcSSc patients, we observed a tendency of improvement in FMD (from 3% to 6%, P = 0.25). Changes in PWV, ccIMT and ABI were not significant. Mean triglyceride (1.7 ± 0.97 versus 1.3 ± 0.46 mmol/l, P = 0.0004), total cholesterol (5.3 ± 1.6 mmol/l versus 4.2 ± 1.3 mmol/l, P = 0.0003), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (3.0 ± 1.3 versus 2.2 ± 1.0 mmol/l, P = 0.005) and C-reactive protein levels (CRP) (5.1 ± 5.2 versus 3.4 ± 2.7, P = 0.01) levels significantly decreased after rosuvastatin treatment. Mean C3, C4 and IC levels also decreased significantly as compared to pretreatment values. Conclusions Six-month rosuvastatin therapy improves endothelial function and lowers CRP, C3, C4 and IC levels indicating possible favourable effects of this statin on the cardiovascular and immune system in SSc.
Collapse
|
25
|
Effect of Cardio-Metabolic Risk Factors Clustering with or without Arterial Hypertension on Arterial Stiffness: A Narrative Review. Diseases 2013. [DOI: 10.3390/diseases1010051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
|
26
|
Kanaki AI, Sarafidis PA, Georgianos PI, Kanavos K, Tziolas IM, Zebekakis PE, Lasaridis AN. Effects of low-dose atorvastatin on arterial stiffness and central aortic pressure augmentation in patients with hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Am J Hypertens 2013; 26:608-16. [PMID: 23449607 DOI: 10.1093/ajh/hps098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Experimental and clinical data suggest that statins exert anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative actions on vasculature beyond their lipid-lowering properties. Whether these pleiotropic effects of statins translate into a beneficial effect on arterial stiffness is not clear. This study aimed to evaluate the potential effects of low-dose atorvastatin treatment on arterial stiffness and central arterial pressure waveforms in patients with mild hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. METHODS In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled fashion, 50 hypertensive and hypercholesterolemic patients were allocated to receive 10 mg of atorvastatin or placebo for 26 weeks. Arterial stiffness was assessed by aortic pulse-wave velocity (PWV) using a Sphygmocor device. Central arterial pressure waveform parameters were estimated by radial artery applanation tonometry. Heart rate-adjusted augmentation index (AIx(75)) was used as measure of wave reflections. RESULTS At study end, aortic PWV (9.0 ± 1.5 vs. 10.9 ± 2.6 m/sec; P < 0.001) and AIx(75) (24.9% ± 9.7% vs 28.8% ± 11.8%; P < 0.001) were significantly lower in the atorvastatin group than that placebo group. Furthermore, decreases in central aortic systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure were evident at study-end with atorvastatin but not with placebo (130 ± 8 vs. 138 ± 6 mm Hg, P < 0.001; 48 ± 7 vs. 53 ± 6 mm Hg, P < 0.05, respectively). Atorvastatin-induced reductions in aortic PWV during follow-up showed significant associations with changes in AIx(75) and central aortic systolic blood pressure and pulse pressure. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that low-dose atorvastatin treatment improves arterial stiffness and exerts a reduction on central aortic pressures. These effects may represent a potential mechanism of cardiovascular risk reduction observed with statin use. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Database Identifier Number: NCT01126684.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aggeliki I Kanaki
- Section of Nephrology and Hypertension, 1st Department of Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Sandoo A, Protogerou AD, Hodson J, Smith JP, Zampeli E, Sfikakis PP, Kitas GD. The role of inflammation, the autonomic nervous system and classical cardiovascular disease risk factors on subendocardial viability ratio in patients with RA: a cross-sectional and longitudinal study. Arthritis Res Ther 2012; 14:R258. [PMID: 23190682 PMCID: PMC3674609 DOI: 10.1186/ar4103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2012] [Revised: 11/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence indicates that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients have increased susceptibility to myocardial ischaemia that contributes to myocardial infarction. The subendocardial viability ratio (SEVR) can be measured using pulse wave analysis and reflects myocardial oxygen supply and demand. The objective of the present study was to examine specific predictors of SEVR in RA patients, with a specific focus on inflammation and classical cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors. METHODS Two patient cohorts were included in the study; a primary cohort consisting of 220 RA patients and a validation cohort of 127 RA patients. All patients underwent assessment of SEVR using pulse wave analysis. Thirty-one patients from the primary cohort who were about to start anti-inflammatory treatment were prospectively examined for SEVR at pretreatment baseline and 2 weeks, 3 months and 1 year following treatment. Systemic markers of disease activity and classical CVD risk factors were assessed in all patients. RESULTS The SEVR (mean ± standard deviation) for RA in the primary cohort was 148 ± 27 and in the validation cohort was 142 ± 25. Regression analyses revealed that all parameters of RA disease activity were associated with SEVR, along with gender, blood pressure and heart rate. These findings were the same in the validation cohort. Analysis of longitudinal data showed that C-reactive protein (P < 0.001), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (P < 0.005), Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (P < 0.001), mean blood pressure (P < 0.005) and augmentation index (P < 0.001) were significantly reduced after commencing anti-TNFα treatment. Increasing C-reactive protein was found to be associated with a reduction in SEVR (P = 0.02) and an increase in augmentation index (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION The present findings reveal that the SEVR is associated with markers of disease activity as well as highly prevalent classical CVD risk factors in RA, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Further prospective studies are required to determine whether the SEVR predicts future cardiac events in RA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aamer Sandoo
- Department of Rheumatology, Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Trust, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley DY1 2HQ, UK
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Athanassios D Protogerou
- First Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - James Hodson
- Wolfson Computer Laboratory, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, Mindelsohn Way, Birmingham B15 2WB, UK
| | - Jacqueline P Smith
- Department of Rheumatology, Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Trust, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley DY1 2HQ, UK
| | - Evi Zampeli
- First Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - Petros P Sfikakis
- First Department of Propaedeutic and Internal Medicine, University Medical School, Athens, Greece
| | - George D Kitas
- Department of Rheumatology, Dudley Group of Hospitals NHS Trust, Russells Hall Hospital, Dudley DY1 2HQ, UK
- School of Sport and Exercise Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
- Arthritis Research UK Epidemiology Unit, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Measurements of biomechanical properties of arteries have become an important surrogate outcome used in epidemiological and interventional cardiovascular research. Structural and functional differences of vessels in the arterial tree result in a dampening of pulsatility and smoothing of blood flow as it progresses to capillary level. A loss of arterial elastic properties results a range of linked pathophysiological changes within the circulation including increased pulse pressure, left ventricular hypertrophy, subendocardial ischaemia, vessel endothelial dysfunction and cardiac fibrosis. With increased arterial stiffness, the microvasculature of brain and kidneys are exposed to wider pressure fluctuations and may lead to increased risk of stroke and renal failure. Stiffening of the aorta, as measured by the gold-standard technique of aortic Pulse Wave Velocity (aPWV), is independently associated with adverse cardiovascular outcomes across many different patient groups and in the general population. Therefore, use of aPWV has been proposed for early detection of vascular damage and individual cardiovascular risk evaluation and it seems certain that measurement of arterial stiffness will become increasingly important in future clinical care. In this review we will consider some of the pathophysiological processes that result from arterial stiffening, how it is measured and factors that may drive it as well as potential avenues for therapy. In the face of an ageing population where mortality from atheromatous cardiovascular disease is falling, pathology associated with arterial stiffening will assume ever greater importance. Therefore, understanding these concepts for all clinicians involved in care of patients with cardiovascular disease will become vital.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Quinn
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Addenbrooke's Hospital , Cambridge , UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
TAM LAISHAN, SHANG QING, LI EDMUNDK, WANG SHANG, LI RUIJIE, LEE KALAI, LEUNG YINGYING, YING KINGYEE, YIM CHEUKWAN, KUN EMILYW, LEUNG MOONHO, LI MARTIN, LI TENAK, ZHU TRACYY, CHUI RICKYK, TSEUNG LORRAINE, YU SHUILIAN, KUAN WOONPANG, YU CHEUKMAN. Infliximab is Associated with Improvement in Arterial Stiffness in Patients with Early Rheumatoid Arthritis — A Randomized Trial. J Rheumatol 2012; 39:2267-75. [PMID: 22984272 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.120541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective.To determine the efficacy of methotrexate (MTX) with infliximab (IFX) compared with MTX alone in the prevention of atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis (RA).Methods.A randomized, open-label study in which early RA patients with active disease were treated with MTX alone (n = 20) and MTX plus IFX (n = 20) for 6 months. Patients were assessed every 3 months. Patients from the MTX-alone group who failed to achieve 28-joint Disease Activity Score remission (DAS28 ≤ 2.6) at 6 months were permitted to escape to open-label IFX. Intima-media thickness (IMT), pulse wave velocity (PWV), and augmentation index (AIx) were measured at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months.Results.At 6 months, there was a significantly greater reduction in PWV in the MTX-alone group (0.18 ± 1.59 m/s) compared with the MTX plus IFX group (−0.78 ± 1.13 m/s; p = 0.044), accompanied by significantly greater reduction in patient’s global assessment, number of swollen joints, C-reactive protein, and DAS28 in the MTX plus IFX group compared to the MTX-alone group. The changes in IMT and AIx were similar between the 2 groups. At 12 months, there was a trend favoring early combination treatment with regard to the reduction in PWV (p = 0.06).Conclusion.MTX plus IFX causes a more significant reduction in PWV than MTX alone in patients with early RA after 6-month treatment, and further improvement may be achieved in patients who continued on longterm tumor necrosis factor-α blockers, suggesting that early, effective suppression of inflammation may prevent progression of atherosclerosis by improving vascular function.
Collapse
|
30
|
Serum soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products levels and aortic augmentation index in early rheumatoid arthritis--a prospective study. Semin Arthritis Rheum 2012; 42:333-45. [PMID: 22920235 DOI: 10.1016/j.semarthrit.2012.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2012] [Revised: 06/11/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We assessed whether a serum soluble receptor for advanced glycation end product (sRAGE) levels were associated with a progression of carotid atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness indexes in a cohort of early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. METHODS RA patients with symptoms onset <2 years were recruited. Vascular assessments and serum sRAGE levels were measured at baseline and 1 year later. Arterial stiffness was determined by pulse wave velocity and aortic augmentation index (AIx). Carotid intima-media thickness was measured using high-resolution ultrasound. RESULTS Ninety-four patients completed the 1-year study. Fifty-three (56.4%) achieved disease remission [28-joint disease activity score (DAS28 < 2.6)] at 12 months. Improvement in arterial stiffness was observed as reflected by the significant reductions in AIx and pulse wave velocity. At 12 months, the sRAGE levels increased significantly compared with baseline (939.8 ± 517.7 pg/ml to 1272.1 ± 567.3 pg/ml, P < 0.001). Changes in sRAGE levels were significantly higher in men compared to women (768 ± 510 pg/ml versus 271 ± 490 pg/ml, P < 0.05) and was negatively associated with the change in AIx (r = -0.259, P = 0.023). Changes in sRAGE level were not associated with other demographic, clinical, cardiovascular risk factors or treatment. Using multivariate analysis, the change in sRAGE levels and baseline high-density lipoprotein were independent predictors associated with the change in AIx. CONCLUSIONS Arterial stiffness improved significantly in patients with early RA after effective control of inflammation. Increase in sRAGE level was associated with a decrease in AIx, suggesting that sRAGE may play an important role in the ligand-soluble receptor for advanced glycation end product interaction propagated inflammation and vascular stiffness in these patients.
Collapse
|
31
|
Knowlton N, Wages JA, Centola MB, Alaupovic P. Apolipoprotein-defined lipoprotein abnormalities in rheumatoid arthritis patients and their potential impact on cardiovascular disease. Scand J Rheumatol 2012; 41:165-9. [DOI: 10.3109/03009742.2012.654815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|