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Sharma H, Mossman K, Austin RC. Fatal attractions that trigger inflammation and drive atherosclerotic disease. Eur J Clin Invest 2024; 54:e14169. [PMID: 38287209 DOI: 10.1111/eci.14169] [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] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atherosclerosis is the salient, underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases, such as arrhythmia, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, pulmonary embolism and myocardial infarction. In recent years, atherosclerosis pathophysiology has evolved from a lipid-based to an inflammation-centric ideology. METHODS This narrative review is comprised of review and original articles that were found through the PubMed search engine. The following search terms or amalgamation of terms were used: "cardiovascular disease," "atherosclerosis," "inflammation," "GRP78," "Hsp60," "oxidative low-density lipoproteins," "aldehyde dehydrogenase," "β2-glycoprotein," "lipoprotein lipase A," "human cytomegalovirus." "SARS-CoV-2," "chlamydia pneumonia," "autophagy," "thrombosis" and "therapeutics." RESULTS Emerging evidence supports the concept that atherosclerosis is associated with the interaction between cell surface expression of stress response chaperones, including GRP78 and Hsp60, and their respective autoantibodies. Moreover, various other autoantigens and their autoantibodies have displayed a compelling connection with the development of atherosclerosis, including oxidative low-density lipoproteins, aldehyde dehydrogenase, β2-glycoprotein and lipoprotein lipase A. Atherosclerosis progression is also concurrent with viral and bacterial activators of various diseases. This narrative review will focus on the contributions of human cytomegalovirus as well as SARS-CoV-2 and chlamydia pneumonia in atherosclerosis development. Notably, the interaction of an autoantigen with their respective autoantibodies or the presence of a foreign antigen can enhance inflammation development, which leads to atherosclerotic lesion progression. CONCLUSION We will highlight and discuss the complex role of the interaction between autoantigens and autoantibodies, and the presence of foreign antigens in the development of atherosclerotic lesions in relationship to pro-inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitesh Sharma
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen Mossman
- Department of Medicine, Michael DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research and the McMaster Immunology Research Centre, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard C Austin
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, McMaster University, The Research Institute of St. Joe's Hamilton and the Hamilton Centre for Kidney Research, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
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2
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Karakasis P, Nasoufidou A, Sagris M, Fragakis N, Tsioufis K. Vascular Alterations Following COVID-19 Infection: A Comprehensive Literature Review. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:545. [PMID: 38792566 PMCID: PMC11122535 DOI: 10.3390/life14050545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, has revealed a broader impact beyond the respiratory system, predominantly affecting the vascular system with various adverse manifestations. The infection induces endothelial dysfunction and immune system dysregulation, creating an inflammatory and hypercoagulable state. It affects both microvasculature and macrovasculature, leading to thromboembolic events, cardiovascular manifestations, impaired arterial stiffness, cerebrovascular complications, and nephropathy, as well as retinopathy-frequently observed in cases of severe illness. Evidence suggests that SARS-CoV-2 infection may result in persistent effects on the vascular system, identified as long-term COVID-19. This is characterized by prolonged inflammation, endotheliopathy, and an increased risk of vascular complications. Various imaging modalities, histopathological studies, and diagnostic tools such as video capillaroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging have been employed to visualize vascular alterations. This review aims to comprehensively summarize the evidence concerning short and long-term vascular alterations following COVID-19 infection, investigating their impact on patients' prognosis, and providing an overview of preventive strategies to mitigate associated vascular complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paschalis Karakasis
- Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.K.); (A.N.); (N.F.)
| | - Athina Nasoufidou
- Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.K.); (A.N.); (N.F.)
| | - Marios Sagris
- First Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Nikolaos Fragakis
- Second Department of Cardiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Hippokration General Hospital, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece; (P.K.); (A.N.); (N.F.)
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Hippokration General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece;
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Zanini G, Selleri V, Roncati L, Coppi F, Nasi M, Farinetti A, Manenti A, Pinti M, Mattioli AV. Vascular "Long COVID": A New Vessel Disease? Angiology 2024; 75:8-14. [PMID: 36652923 PMCID: PMC9895315 DOI: 10.1177/00033197231153204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Vascular sequelae following (SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus disease) (COVID)-19 infection are considered as "Long Covid (LC)" disease, when occurring 12 weeks after the original infection. The paucity of specific data can be obviated by translating pathophysiological elements from the original Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Corona Virus (SARS-CoV-2) infection (In a microcirculatory system, a first "endotheliitis," is often followed by production of "Neutrophil Extracellular Trap," and can evolve into a more complex leukocytoklastic-like and hyperimmune vasculitis. In medium/large-sized vessels, this corresponds to endothelial dysfunction, leading to an accelerated progression of pre-existing atherosclerotic plaques through an increased deposition of platelets, circulating inflammatory cells and proteins. Associated dysregulated immune and pro-coagulant conditions can directly cause thrombo-embolic arterial or venous complications. In order to implement appropriate treatment, physicians need to consider vascular pathologies observed after SARS-Cov-2 infections as possible "LC" disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giada Zanini
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Valentina Selleri
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale per le Ricerche
Cardiovascolari, University of Modena and Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Roncati
- Pathology Unit, University of Modena and Reggio
Emilia. Polyclinic Hospital, Modena, Italy
| | - Francesca Coppi
- Department of Medical and Surgical
Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and. Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Milena Nasi
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Dental Sciences
University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Alberto Farinetti
- Department of Medical and Surgical
Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and. Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio Manenti
- Department of Medical and Surgical
Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and. Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marcello Pinti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Anna Vittoria Mattioli
- Istituto Nazionale per le Ricerche
Cardiovascolari, University of Modena and Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical
Sciences for Children and Adults, University of Modena and. Reggio
Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Sagris M, Antonopoulos AS, Angelopoulos A, Papanikolaou P, Simantiris S, Vamvakaris C, Koumpoura A, Farmaki M, Antoniades C, Tsioufis C, Tousoulis D. High-sensitivity Troponin (hs-Tn) for Cardiovascular Risk Prognostication: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Curr Med Chem 2024; 31:1941-1953. [PMID: 36924099 DOI: 10.2174/0929867330666230315152045] [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] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic low-grade inflammation is involved in coronary atherosclerosis progression whereas recent research efforts suggest that preventative methods should be tailored to the "residual inflammatory risk". As such, modalities for the early identification of the risk have to be investigated. METHODS We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis according to the PRISMA guidelines. Any study that presented the prognostic value of high sensitivity troponin (hs-cTn) of vascular inflammation in stable patients without known cardiac heart disease was considered to be potentially eligible. The Medline (PubMed) database was searched up to April 22, 2021. The main endpoint was the difference in c-index (Δ[c-index]) with the use of hs-cTn for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. We calculated I2 to test heterogeneity. RESULTS In total, 44 studies and 112,288 stable patients without known coronary heart disease were included in this meta-analysis. The mean follow-up duration of the whole cohort was 6.8 ± 1.1 years. 77,004 (68.5%) of the patients presented at low cardiovascular risk while 35,284 (31.5%) in high. The overall pooled estimate of Δ[c-index] for MACE was 1.4% (95%CI: 0.7-2.1, I2=0%) and for cardiovascular death 1.3% (95%CI: 0.3-2.3, I2=0%). Finally, the overall pooled estimate of Δ[c-index] for all-cause mortality was 3% (95%CI: 1.9-3.9, I2=86%), while high heterogeneity was observed between the studies. CONCLUSION The predictive usefulness of changes in hs-cTn measures in stable individuals with either high or low cardiovascular risk, demonstrates that assessing vascular inflammation in addition to clinical risk factors enhances risk prediction for cardiovascular events and allcause mortality. Further prospective studies are necessary to confirm these findings and assist clinical decision-making regarding the most optimal prevention strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios S Antonopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
- RDM Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Andreas Angelopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Papanikolaou
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Spyridon Simantiris
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Constantinos Vamvakaris
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Alkmini Koumpoura
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Farmaki
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Constantinos Tsioufis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Spadaccio C, Rose D, Candura D, Lopez Marco A, Cerillo A, Stefano P, Nasso G, Ramoni E, Fattouch K, Minacapelli A, Oo AY, Speziale G, Shelton K, Berra L, Bose A, Moscarelli M. Effect of Hospital-associated SARS-CoV-2 Infections in Cardiac Surgery: A Multicenter Study. Ann Thorac Surg 2024; 117:213-219. [PMID: 35690139 PMCID: PMC9174100 DOI: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2022.05.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effect of hospital-associated SARS-CoV-2 infections in cardiac surgery patients remains poorly investigated, and current data are limited to small case series with conflicting results. METHODS A multicenter European collaboration was organized to analyze the outcomes of patients who tested positive with hospital-associated SARS-CoV-2 infection after cardiac surgery. The study investigators hypothesized that early infection could be associated with worse postoperative outcomes; hence 2 groups were considered: (1) an early hospital-associated SARS-CoV-2 infection group comprising patients who had a positive molecular test result ≤7 days after surgery, with or without symptoms; and (2) a late hospital-associated SARS-CoV-2 infection group comprising patients whose test positivity occurred >7 days after surgery, with or without symptoms. The primary outcome was 30-day mortality. Secondary outcomes included all-cause mortality or morbidity at early follow-up and SARS-CoV-2-related hospital readmission. RESULTS A total of 87 patients were included in the study. Of those, 30 were in the early group and 57 in the late group. Overall, 30-day mortality was 8%, and in-hospital mortality was 11.5%. The reintubation rate was 11.4%. Early infection was significantly associated with higher mortality (adjusted OR, 26.6; 95% CI, 2, 352.6; P < .01) when compared with the late group. At 6-month follow-up, survival probability was also significantly higher in the late infection group: 91% (95% CI, 83%, 98%) vs 75% (95% CI, 61%, 93%) in the early infection group (P = .036). Two patients experienced COVID-19-related rehospitalization. CONCLUSIONS In this multicenter analysis, hospital-associated SARS-CoV-2 infection resulted in higher than expected postoperative mortality after cardiac surgery, especially in the early infection group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Spadaccio
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Lancashire Cardiac Centre, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, United Kingdom
| | - David Rose
- Lancashire Cardiac Centre, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, United Kingdom
| | - Dario Candura
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ana Lopez Marco
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alfredo Cerillo
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Stefano
- Department of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Nasso
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, GVM Care & Research, Anthea Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Enrico Ramoni
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, GVM Care & Research, Villa Torri Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Khalil Fattouch
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, GVM Care & Research, Maria Eleonora Hospital, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alberto Minacapelli
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, GVM Care & Research, Maria Eleonora Hospital, Palermo, Italy
| | - Aung Y Oo
- Department of Cardiac Surgery, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giuseppe Speziale
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, GVM Care & Research, Anthea Hospital, Bari, Italy
| | - Kenneth Shelton
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Lorenzo Berra
- Department of Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amal Bose
- Lancashire Cardiac Centre, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Moscarelli
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, GVM Care & Research, Anthea Hospital, Bari, Italy.
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6
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Crispino P. Hemorrhagic Coagulation Disorders and Ischemic Stroke: How to Reconcile Both? Neurol Int 2023; 15:1443-1458. [PMID: 38132972 PMCID: PMC10745771 DOI: 10.3390/neurolint15040093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Coagulation and fibrinolytic system disorders are conditions in which the blood's ability to clot is impaired, resulting in an increased risk of thrombosis or bleeding. Although these disorders are the expression of two opposing tendencies, they can often be associated with or be a consequence of each other, contributing to making the prognosis of acute cerebrovascular events more difficult. It is important to recognize those conditions that are characterized by dual alterations in the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems to reduce the prognostic impact of clinical conditions with difficult treatment and often unfortunate outcomes. Management of these individuals can be challenging, as clinicians must balance the need to prevent bleeding episodes with the potential risk of clot formation. Treatment decisions should be made on an individual basis, considering the specific bleeding disorder, its severity, and the patient's general medical condition. This review aims to deal with all those forms in which coagulation and fibrinolysis represent two sides of the same media in the correct management of patients with acute neurological syndrome. Precision medicine, personalized treatment, advanced anticoagulant strategies, and innovations in bleeding control represent future directions in the management of these complex pathologies in which stroke can be the evolution of two different acute events or be the first manifestation of an occult or unknown underlying pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Crispino
- Medicine Unit, Santa Maria Goretti Hospital, Via Scaravelli Snc, 04100 Latina, Italy
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7
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Lempesis IG, Varrias D, Sagris M, Attaran RR, Altin ES, Bakoyiannis C, Palaiodimos L, Dalamaga M, Kokkinidis DG. Obesity and Peripheral Artery Disease: Current Evidence and Controversies. Curr Obes Rep 2023; 12:264-279. [PMID: 37243875 PMCID: PMC10220347 DOI: 10.1007/s13679-023-00510-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Obesity is a significant public health problem and a major risk factor for the development and progression of atherosclerosis and its cardiovascular manifestations. Lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects 3%-10% of the Western population and, if left untreated, can lead to devastating outcomes with both an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Interestingly, the association between obesity and PAD remains debatable. Whereas it is well known that PAD and obesity frequently overlap in the same patients, many studies have demonstrated a negative association between obesity and PAD and a protective effect of obesity on disease development and progression, a phenomenon described as the "obesity paradox." Possible mechanisms for this paradox may include genetic background, as assessed by mendelian randomization studies, adipose tissue dysfunction, and body fat distribution rather than adiposity, while other factors, such as sex, ethnicity, sarcopenia in the elderly population, or aggressive treatment of co-existing metabolic conditions in individuals with obesity compared to those with normal weight, could have some impact as well. RECENT RINDINGS Few reviews and meta-analyses examining systematically the relationship between obesity and PAD exist. The impact of PAD development due to the presence of obesity remains largely controversial. However, the most current evidence, backed by a recent meta-analysis, suggests a potential protective role of a higher body mass index on PAD-related complications and mortality. In this review, we discuss the association between obesity and PAD development, progression, and management, and the potential pathophysiologic mechanisms linking the two diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis G Lempesis
- Department of Biologic Chemistry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, 115 27, Athens, Greece.
| | - Dimitrios Varrias
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Marios Sagris
- General Hospital of Nikaia, Piraeus, 184 54, Athens, Greece
| | - Robert R Attaran
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University/Yale New Haven Hospital, 06519, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Elissa S Altin
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University/Yale New Haven Hospital, 06519, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Christos Bakoyiannis
- Department of Surgery, Division of Vascular Surgery, Laikon General Hospital, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, 15772, Athens, Greece
| | - Leonidas Palaiodimos
- Department of Medicine, Jacobi Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Maria Dalamaga
- Department of Biologic Chemistry, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian, University of Athens, Mikras Asias 75, 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Damianos G Kokkinidis
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University/Yale New Haven Hospital, 06519, New Haven, CT, USA
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Mistrulli R, Ferrera A, Muthukkattil ML, Volpe M, Barbato E, Battistoni A. SARS-CoV-2 Related Myocarditis: What We Know So Far. J Clin Med 2023; 12:4700. [PMID: 37510815 PMCID: PMC10380706 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12144700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
A minority of patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (COVID-19) develop cardiovascular complications, such as acute cardiac lesions with elevated troponins, de novo systolic heart failure, pericardial effusion and, rarely, acute myocarditis. The prevalence of COVID-19-related myocarditis ranges from 10 to 105 cases per 100,000 COVID-19-infected individuals, with a male predominance (58%) and a median age of 50 years. The etiopathogenetic mechanism is currently unclear, but may involve direct virus-mediated damage or an exaggerated immune response to the virus. Mortality is high, as fulminant myocarditis (FM) develops very often in the form of cardiogenic shock and ventricular arrhythmias. Hence, medical therapy with ACE inhibitors and beta-blockers may not always be sufficient, in which case inotropic and immunosuppressive drugs, most commonly corticosteroids, may be necessary. In this review we analyze the current data on COVID-19 myocarditis, management strategies and therapy, with a brief description of COVID-19 vaccine-associated myocarditis to help clinicians dealing with this peculiar form of myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Mistrulli
- Clinical and Molecular Medicine Department, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (A.F.); (M.V.); (E.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Armando Ferrera
- Clinical and Molecular Medicine Department, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (A.F.); (M.V.); (E.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Melwyn Luis Muthukkattil
- Clinical and Molecular Medicine Department, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (A.F.); (M.V.); (E.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Massimo Volpe
- Clinical and Molecular Medicine Department, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (A.F.); (M.V.); (E.B.); (A.B.)
- IRCCS San Raffaele, 00163 Roma, Italy
| | - Emanuele Barbato
- Clinical and Molecular Medicine Department, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (A.F.); (M.V.); (E.B.); (A.B.)
| | - Allegra Battistoni
- Clinical and Molecular Medicine Department, Sapienza University of Rome, 00185 Roma, Italy; (A.F.); (M.V.); (E.B.); (A.B.)
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Theofilis P, Oikonomou E, Chasikidis C, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. Pathophysiology of Acute Coronary Syndromes-Diagnostic and Treatment Considerations. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1543. [PMID: 37511918 PMCID: PMC10381786 DOI: 10.3390/life13071543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery disease and acute coronary syndromes are accountable for significant morbidity and mortality, despite the preventive measures and technological advancements in their management. Thus, it is mandatory to further explore the pathophysiology in order to provide tailored and more effective therapies, since acute coronary syndrome pathogenesis is more varied than previously assumed. It consists of plaque rupture, plaque erosion, and calcified nodules. The advancement of vascular imaging tools has been critical in this regard, redefining the epidemiology of each mechanism. When it comes to acute coronary syndrome management, the presence of ruptured plaques almost always necessitates emergent reperfusion, whereas the presence of plaque erosions may indicate the possibility of conservative management with potent antiplatelet and anti-atherosclerotic medications. Calcified nodules, on the other hand, are an uncommon phenomenon that has largely gone unexplored in terms of the best management plan. Future studies should further establish the importance of detecting the underlying mechanism and the role of various treatment plans in each of these distinct entities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Theofilis
- First Department of Cardiology, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- Third Department of Cardiology, Thoracic Diseases General Hospital "Sotiria", University of Athens Medical School, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Christos Chasikidis
- Department of Cardiology, General Hospital of Corinth, 201 00 Corinth, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- First Department of Cardiology, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- First Department of Cardiology, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 115 27 Athens, Greece
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10
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Ceasovschih A, Sorodoc V, Shor A, Haliga RE, Roth L, Lionte C, Onofrei Aursulesei V, Sirbu O, Culis N, Shapieva A, Tahir Khokhar MAR, Statescu C, Sascau RA, Coman AE, Stoica A, Grigorescu ED, Banach M, Thomopoulos C, Sorodoc L. Distinct Features of Vascular Diseases in COVID-19. J Inflamm Res 2023; 16:2783-2800. [PMID: 37435114 PMCID: PMC10332421 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s417691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was declared in early 2020 after several unexplained pneumonia cases were first reported in Wuhan, China, and subsequently in other parts of the world. Commonly, the disease comprises several clinical features, including high temperature, dry cough, shortness of breath, and hypoxia, associated with findings of interstitial pneumonia on chest X-ray and computer tomography. Nevertheless, severe forms of acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are not limited to the respiratory tract but also may be extended to other systems, including the cardiovascular system. The bi-directional relationship between atherosclerosis and COVID-19 is accompanied by poor prognosis. The immune response hyperactivation due to SARS-CoV-2 infection causes an increased secretion of cytokines, endothelial dysfunction, and arterial stiffness, which promotes the development of atherosclerosis. Also, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, access to healthcare amenities was reduced, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality in patients at risk. Furthermore, as lockdown measures were largely adopted worldwide, the sedentary lifestyle and the increased consumption of processed nutrients or unhealthy food increased, and in the consequence, we might observe even 70% of overweight and obese population. Altogether, with the relatively low ratio of vaccinated people in many countries, and important health debt appeared, which is now and will be for next decade a large healthcare challenge. However, the experience gained in the COVID-19 pandemic and the new methods of patients' approaching have helped the medical system to overcome this crisis and will hopefully help in the case of new possible epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandr Ceasovschih
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
- 2nd Internal Medicine Department, Sf. Spiridon Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi, 700111, Romania
| | - Victorita Sorodoc
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
- 2nd Internal Medicine Department, Sf. Spiridon Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi, 700111, Romania
| | - Annabelle Shor
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
| | - Raluca Ecaterina Haliga
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
- 2nd Internal Medicine Department, Sf. Spiridon Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi, 700111, Romania
| | - Lynn Roth
- Laboratory of Physiopharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, 2610, Belgium
| | - Catalina Lionte
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
- 2nd Internal Medicine Department, Sf. Spiridon Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi, 700111, Romania
| | | | - Oana Sirbu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
- 2nd Internal Medicine Department, Sf. Spiridon Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi, 700111, Romania
| | - Nicolae Culis
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Queen’s Medical Center, Nottingham, NG72UH, UK
| | - Albina Shapieva
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Department, Petrovsky National Research Center of Surgery, Moscow, 119991, Russia
| | | | - Cristian Statescu
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Diseases Institute “Prof. Dr. George I.M. Georgescu”, Iasi, 700503, Romania
| | - Radu A Sascau
- Department of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Diseases Institute “Prof. Dr. George I.M. Georgescu”, Iasi, 700503, Romania
| | - Adorata Elena Coman
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
| | - Alexandra Stoica
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
- 2nd Internal Medicine Department, Sf. Spiridon Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi, 700111, Romania
| | - Elena-Daniela Grigorescu
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
| | - Maciej Banach
- Department of Preventive Cardiology and Lipidology, Medical University of Lodz (MUL), Lodz, 93338, Poland
| | - Costas Thomopoulos
- Department of Cardiology, Elena Venizelou General Hospital, Athens, GR-11522, Greece
| | - Laurentiu Sorodoc
- Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, 700115, Romania
- 2nd Internal Medicine Department, Sf. Spiridon Clinical Emergency Hospital, Iasi, 700111, Romania
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11
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Lipman D, Safo SE, Chekouo T. Integrative multi-omics approach for identifying molecular signatures and pathways and deriving and validating molecular scores for COVID-19 severity and status. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:319. [PMID: 37308820 PMCID: PMC10259816 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09410-5] [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] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is still more to learn about the pathobiology of COVID-19. A multi-omic approach offers a holistic view to better understand the mechanisms of COVID-19. We used state-of-the-art statistical learning methods to integrate genomics, metabolomics, proteomics, and lipidomics data obtained from 123 patients experiencing COVID-19 or COVID-19-like symptoms for the purpose of identifying molecular signatures and corresponding pathways associated with the disease. RESULTS We constructed and validated molecular scores and evaluated their utility beyond clinical factors known to impact disease status and severity. We identified inflammation- and immune response-related pathways, and other pathways, providing insights into possible consequences of the disease. CONCLUSIONS The molecular scores we derived were strongly associated with disease status and severity and can be used to identify individuals at a higher risk for developing severe disease. These findings have the potential to provide further, and needed, insights into why certain individuals develop worse outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danika Lipman
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Sandra E Safo
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minnesota, USA.
| | - Thierry Chekouo
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada.
- Division of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, Minnesota, USA.
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12
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Vilaplana-Carnerero C, Giner-Soriano M, Dominguez À, Morros R, Pericas C, Álamo-Junquera D, Toledo D, Gallego C, Redondo A, Grau M. Atherosclerosis, Cardiovascular Disease, and COVID-19: A Narrative Review. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11041206. [PMID: 37189823 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory and degenerative process that mainly occurs in large- and medium-sized arteries and is morphologically characterized by asymmetric focal thickenings of the innermost layer of the artery, the intima. This process is the basis of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the most common cause of death worldwide. Some studies suggest a bidirectional link between atherosclerosis and the consequent CVD with COVID-19. The aims of this narrative review are (1) to provide an overview of the most recent studies that point out a bidirectional relation between COVID-19 and atherosclerosis and (2) to summarize the impact of cardiovascular drugs on COVID-19 outcomes. A growing body of evidence shows that COVID-19 prognosis in individuals with CVD is worse compared with those without. Moreover, various studies have reported the emergence of newly diagnosed patients with CVD after COVID-19. The most common treatments for CVD may influence COVID-19 outcomes. Thus, their implication in the infection process is briefly discussed in this review. A better understanding of the link among atherosclerosis, CVD, and COVID-19 could proactively identify risk factors and, as a result, develop strategies to improve the prognosis for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carles Vilaplana-Carnerero
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Maria Giner-Soriano
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Àngela Dominguez
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Consortium in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa Morros
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la Recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), 08007 Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Consortium in Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, School of Medicine, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Spain
| | - Carles Pericas
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Epidemiology Service, Public Health Agency of Barcelona (ASPB), 08023 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Dolores Álamo-Junquera
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Quality, Process and Innovation Direction, Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
- Health Services Research Group, Vall d'Hebron Institut de Recerca (VHIR), Vall d'Hebron Hospital Universitari, Vall d'Hebron Barcelona Hospital Campus, 08035 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diana Toledo
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Biomedical Research Consortium in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Gallego
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- Methodology, Quality and Medical Care Assessment Department, Direcció d'Atenció Primària Metropolitana Sud, Catalan Institute of Health (ICS), 08908 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Redondo
- Hospital Universitario Bellvitge, Catalan Institute of Health (ICS), 08907 Barcelona, Spain
| | - María Grau
- Biomedical Research Consortium in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), 28029 Madrid, Spain
- Serra Húnter Fellow, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, 08036 Barcelona, Spain
- August Pi i Sunyer Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBAPS), 08036 Barcelona, Spain
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13
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COVID-19 and Vasa vasorum: New Atherogenic Factor? A Case Report and Autopsy Findings. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13061097. [PMID: 36980405 PMCID: PMC10047382 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13061097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with COVID-19 demonstrate higher rates of cardiovascular complications, including thromboses and thromboembolism. One may suppose that the action of SARS-CoV-2 transforms stable atherosclerotic plaques into unstable status. Cardiovascular complications in COVID-19 may be caused by progressive viral alteration of the blood vessels, including Vasa vasorum. A lethal case of ischemic brain disease caused by cerebral atherosclerosis and exacerbated by a stroke during COVID-19 infection is briefly described. The results of the autopsy showed perivascular lymphocytic infiltration and signs of Vasa vasorum vasculitis with thrombi of adventitial microvasculature. The data discussed in the article are interpreted in the context of the concept giving the important role in atherogenesis to Vasa vasorum.
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14
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Khattar G, Hallit J, El Chamieh C, Bou Sanayeh E. Wellens' syndrome following severe COVID-19 infection, an innocent coincidence or a deadly association: two case reports. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2023; 23:106. [PMID: 36829118 PMCID: PMC9950701 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-023-03137-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with late-onset cardiovascular complications primarily due to a hypercoagulable state. Its association with Wellens' syndrome, which reflects a stenosis in the proximal left anterior descending coronary artery, is not well established. We present two cases diagnosed with this syndrome following their COVID-19 acute phase despite taking adequate anticoagulation. CASE PRESENTATION We present two patients with incidental electrocardiography (ECG) showing the typical Wellens'-related changes, with an underlying severe triple-vessel coronary artery disease a few weeks following a severe COVID-19 infection associated with high inflammatory markers. The stenotic lesions were diagnosed by cardiac catheterization, and both patients underwent Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting successfully. Notably, patients' baseline ECGs were normal, and they were maintained on Rivaroxaban 10 mg following their viral illness. CONCLUSION Despite advances in the preventive measures for COVID-19 complications, its pathophysiologic impact on vasculature and atherosclerosis is still incompletely understood. Further clinical trials must be conducted to study this association between Wellens' syndrome and this virus to prevent life-threatening complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Khattar
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon.,Notre Dame des Secours University Hospital, Jbeil, Lebanon
| | - Jennifer Hallit
- Department of Pediatrics, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Carolla El Chamieh
- Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK), Jounieh, Lebanon
| | - Elie Bou Sanayeh
- Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon.
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15
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Diabetes Mellitus and Heart Failure: Epidemiology, Pathophysiologic Mechanisms, and the Role of SGLT2 Inhibitors. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13020497. [PMID: 36836854 PMCID: PMC9968235 DOI: 10.3390/life13020497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) and heart failure (HF) are frequently encountered afflictions that are linked by a common pathophysiologic background. According to landmark studies, those conditions frequently coexist, and this interaction represents a poor prognostic indicator. Based on mechanistic studies, HF can be propagated by multiple pathophysiologic pathways, such as inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, fibrosis, cardiac autonomic neuropathy, and alterations in substrate utilization. In this regard, DM may augment myocardial inflammation, fibrosis, autonomic dysfunction, and lipotoxicity. As the interaction between DM and HF appears critical, the new cornerstone in DM and HF treatment, sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i), may be able to revert the pathophysiology of those conditions and lead to beneficial HF outcomes. In this review, we aim to highlight the deleterious pathophysiologic interaction between DM and HF, as well as demonstrate the beneficial role of SGLT2i in this field.
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16
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Horiuchi H, Utada S, Shinomiya Y, Sogo A, Miyagawa T, Niida S, Okano H, Suzuki N, Otsuka T, Miyazaki H, Furuya R. Effect of Past Chlamydophila pneumoniae Infection on the Short-Time Mortality of COVID-19: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e34543. [PMID: 36879715 PMCID: PMC9985306 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Chlamydophila pneumoniae (CP)is known to play a role in atherosclerosis and endothelial injury, its past infection on the mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which was also reported to be a vascular disease, remains unknown. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we examined 78 COVID-19 patients and 32 bacterial pneumonia patients who visited a tertiary emergency center in Japan between April 1, 2021, and April 30, 2022. CP antibody levels, including IgM, IgG, and IgA, were measured. RESULTS Among all patients, the CP IgA-positive rate was significantly associated with age (P = 0.002). Between the COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 groups, no difference in the positive rate for both CP IgG and IgA was observed (P = 1.00 and 0.51, respectively). The mean age and proportion of males were significantly higher in the IgA-positive group than in the IgA-negative group (60.7 vs. 75.5, P = 0.001; 61.5% vs. 85.0%, P = 0.019, respectively). Smoking and dead outcomes were significantly higher both in the IgA-positive group and IgG-positive group (smoking: 26.7% vs. 62.2, P = 0.003; 34.7% vs. 73.1%, P = 0.002, dead outcome: 6.5% vs. 29.8%, P = 0.020; 13.5% vs. 34.6%, P = 0.039, respectively). Although the log-rank test revealed higher 30-day mortality in the IgG-positive group compared to the IgG-negative group (P = 0.032), Cox regression analysis demonstrated no significant difference between the IgG-positive and negative groups (hazard ratio (HR) = 4.10, 95%CI = 0.94-18.0, P = 0.061). CONCLUSION The effect of past CP infection on 30-day mortality in COVID-19 patients was not obvious.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Horiuchi
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Syusuke Utada
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Yoshie Shinomiya
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Azusa Sogo
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Takao Miyagawa
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Shoko Niida
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Hiromu Okano
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Naoya Suzuki
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Tsuyoshi Otsuka
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Hiroshi Miyazaki
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
| | - Ryosuke Furuya
- Department of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, Yokohama, JPN
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17
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Atherosclerosis, Cardiovascular Disorders and COVID-19: Comorbid Pathogenesis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13030478. [PMID: 36766583 PMCID: PMC9914751 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13030478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The article describes how atherosclerosis and coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) may affect each other. The features of this comorbid pathogenesis at various levels (vascular, cellular and molecular) are considered. A bidirectional influence of these conditions is described: the presence of cardiovascular diseases affects different individuals' susceptibility to viral infection. In turn, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can have a negative effect on the endothelium and cardiomyocytes, causing blood clotting, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and thus exacerbating the development of atherosclerosis. In addition to the established entry into cells via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), other mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 entry are currently under investigation, for example, through CD147. Pathogenesis of comorbidity can be determined by the influence of the virus on various links which are meaningful for atherogenesis: generation of oxidized forms of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), launch of a cytokine storm, damage to the endothelial glycocalyx, and mitochondrial injury. The transformation of a stable plaque into an unstable one plays an important role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis complications and can be triggered by COVID-19. The impact of SARS-CoV-2 on large vessels such as the aorta is more complex than previously thought considering its impact on vasa vasorum. Current information on the mutual influence of the medicines used in the treatment of atherosclerosis and acute COVID-19 is briefly summarized.
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18
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Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Newly Diagnosed, Treatment-Naive Hypertensive Patients and Its Association with Cardiorenal Risk Markers. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2023; 30:63-72. [PMID: 36626077 DOI: 10.1007/s40292-023-00558-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Patients with arterial hypertension frequently present with comorbidities that are associated with increased cardiorenal risk, such as metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). AIMS Our study aimed to assess the prevalence and the association of MAFLD with cardiorenal risk markers in newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve hypertensive patients. METHODS We recruited 281 individuals with new-onset hypertension who were not prescribed any medication. Medical history, clinical examination findings, and laboratory test results were recorded. Liver steatosis was assessed through fatty liver index (FLI) calculation. Patients with FLI ≥ 60 together with one main metabolic abnormality (type 2 diabetes mellitus or overweight/obesity) or at least two metabolic risk abnormalities (increased waist circumference, blood pressure, plasma triglycerides, presence of prediabetes or insulin resistance, decreased plasma high-density lipoprotein) fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for MAFLD. RESULTS The prevalence of MAFLD in our study population was 28.7%. Individuals with MAFLD were more frequently male and had increased body mass index. Systolic, diastolic, and pulse pressure values were significantly higher in this group of patients. Moreover, lipid, renal, glucose, and inflammatory markers were considerably deranged in patients with MAFLD. After multivariate regression analysis, uric acid, ferritin, and apoE emerged as independent predictors of MAFLD. Area under receiver operating characteristics curve revealed that uric acid had the greatest diagnostic accuracy, with the ideal cutoff being ≥ 5.2 mg/dl (sensitivity: 77.6%, specificity: 76.3%). CONCLUSION MAFLD represents a common comorbidity in hypertensive patients and is associated with markers of cardiorenal risk. Uric acid may be indicative of MAFLD in particular.
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19
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Sagris M, Theofilis P, Antonopoulos AS, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. Telomere Length: A Cardiovascular Biomarker and a Novel Therapeutic Target. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416010. [PMID: 36555658 PMCID: PMC9781338 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a multifactorial disease with a high prevalence, particularly in developing countries. Currently, the investigation of telomeres as a potential tool for the early detection of the atherosclerotic disease seems to be a promising method. Telomeres are repetitive DNA sequences located at the extremities of chromosomes that maintain genetic stability. Telomere length (TL) has been associated with several human disorders and diseases while its attrition rate varies significantly in the population. The rate of TL shortening ranges between 20 and 50 bp and is affected by factors such as the end-replication phenomenon, oxidative stress, and other DNA-damaging agents. In this review, we delve not only into the pathophysiology of TL shortening but also into its association with cardiovascular disease and the progression of atherosclerosis. We also provide current and future treatment options based on TL and telomerase function, trying to highlight the importance of these cutting-edge developments and their clinical relevance.
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20
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Tsioufis P, Theofilis P, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. The Impact of Cytokines in Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaque: Current Therapeutic Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232415937. [PMID: 36555579 PMCID: PMC9788180 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary atherosclerosis is a chronic pathological process that involves inflammation together with endothelial dysfunction and lipoprotein dysregulation. Experimental studies during the past decades have established the role of inflammatory cytokines in coronary artery disease, namely interleukins (ILs), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interferon-γ, and chemokines. Moreover, their value as biomarkers in disease development and progression further enhance the validity of this interaction. Recently, cytokine-targeted treatment approaches have emerged as potential tools in the management of atherosclerotic disease. IL-1β, based on the results of the CANTOS trial, remains the most validated option in reducing the residual cardiovascular risk. Along the same line, colchicine was also proven efficacious in preventing major adverse cardiovascular events in large clinical trials of patients with acute and chronic coronary syndrome. Other commercially available agents targeting IL-6 (tocilizumab), TNF-α (etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab), or IL-1 receptor antagonist (anakinra) have mostly been assessed in the setting of other inflammatory diseases and further testing in atherosclerosis is required. In the future, potential targeting of the NLRP3 inflammasome, anti-inflammatory IL-10, or atherogenic chemokines could represent appealing options, provided that patient safety is proven to be of no concern.
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21
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Oikonomou E, Souvaliotis N, Lampsas S, Siasos G, Theofilis P, Korakas E, Lambadiari V, Ikonomidis I, Pesiridis T, Zakynthinos G, Katsarou O, Tousoulis D, Vavouranakis M. The role of cardiometabolic risk factors and endothelial dysfunction in serum albumin levels of patients with COVID-19. Cardiol J 2022; 29:1037-1039. [PMID: 36117293 PMCID: PMC9788738 DOI: 10.5603/cj.a2022.0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Evangelos Oikonomou
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece,1st Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Hippokration General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Nektarios Souvaliotis
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Stamatios Lampsas
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece,Cardiovascular Division, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1st Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Hippokration General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Korakas
- 2nd Cardiology Department, Echocardiography Department and Laboratory of Preventive Cardiology, Athens University Hospital Attikon, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Vaia Lambadiari
- 2nd Cardiology Department, Echocardiography Department and Laboratory of Preventive Cardiology, Athens University Hospital Attikon, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Ignatios Ikonomidis
- 2nd Cardiology Department, Echocardiography Department and Laboratory of Preventive Cardiology, Athens University Hospital Attikon, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Theodoros Pesiridis
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Zakynthinos
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Ourania Katsarou
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Hippokration General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Manolis Vavouranakis
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, Sotiria Chest Disease Hospital, Athens, Greece
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22
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Theofilis P, Sagris M, Oikonomou E, Antonopoulos AS, Siasos G, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Novel Antidiabetic Agents. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:1829. [PMID: 36362984 PMCID: PMC9696750 DOI: 10.3390/life12111829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/05/2022] [Indexed: 08/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has been increasing worldwide and remains one of the leading causes of atherosclerotic disease. Several antidiabetic agents have been introduced in trying to regulate glucose control levels with different mechanisms of action. These agents, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in particular, have been endorsed by contemporary guidelines in patients with or without T2DM. Their widespread usage during the last three decades has raised awareness in the scientific community concerning their pleiotropic mechanisms of action, including their putative anti-inflammatory effect. In this review, we delve into the anti-inflammatory role and mechanism of the existing antidiabetic agents in the cardiovascular system and their potential use in other chronic sterile inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Marios Sagris
- 3rd Cardiology Department, Thoracic Diseases Hospital “Sotiria”, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
- 3rd Cardiology Department, Thoracic Diseases Hospital “Sotiria”, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios S. Antonopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
- 3rd Cardiology Department, Thoracic Diseases Hospital “Sotiria”, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Tsioufis
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Theofilis P, Vordoni A, Kalaitzidis RG. Interplay between metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and chronic kidney disease: Epidemiology, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and treatment considerations. World J Gastroenterol 2022; 28:5691-5706. [PMID: 36338895 PMCID: PMC9627426 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v28.i39.5691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The recently proposed nomenclature change from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease to metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has resulted in the reappraisal of epidemiological trends and associations with other chronic diseases. In this context, MAFLD appears to be tightly linked to incident chronic kidney disease (CKD). This association may be attributed to multiple shared risk factors including type 2 diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. Moreover, similarities in their molecular pathophysiologic mechanisms can be detected, since inflammation, oxidative stress, fibrosis, and gut dysbiosis are highly prevalent in these pathologic states. At the same time, lines of evidence suggest a genetic predisposition to MAFLD due to gene polymorphisms, such as the PNPLA3 rs738409 G allele polymorphism, which may also propagate renal dysfunction. Concerning their management, available treatment considerations for obesity (bariatric surgery) and novel antidiabetic agents (glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists, sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors) appear beneficial in preclinical and clinical studies of MAFLD and CKD modeling. Moreover, alternative approaches such as melatonin supplementation, farnesoid X receptor agonists, and gut microbiota modulation may represent attractive options in the future. With a look to the future, additional adequately sized studies are required, focusing on preventing renal complications in patients with MAFLD and the appropriate management of individuals with concomitant MAFLD and CKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Theofilis
- Center for Nephrology “G. Papadakis,” General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus “Agios Panteleimon,” Nikaia 18454, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Vordoni
- Center for Nephrology “G. Papadakis,” General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus “Agios Panteleimon,” Nikaia 18454, Greece
| | - Rigas G Kalaitzidis
- Center for Nephrology “G. Papadakis,” General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus “Agios Panteleimon,” Nikaia 18454, Greece
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Giannaki A, Sagris M, Toskas P, Antonopoulos AS, Oikonomou E, Theofilis P, Lazaros G, Tousoulis D. The Effect of Stress Management in Patients Post-acute Myocardial Infarction. Hellenic J Cardiol 2022; 70:85-88. [PMID: 36328160 DOI: 10.1016/j.hjc.2022.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Giannaki
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Marios Sagris
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Padelis Toskas
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios S Antonopoulos
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - George Lazaros
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Tousoulis
- 1(st) Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens, Greece.
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Lv Y, Zhang T, Cai J, Huang C, Zhan S, Liu J. Bioinformatics and systems biology approach to identify the pathogenetic link of Long COVID and Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Front Immunol 2022; 13:952987. [PMID: 36189286 PMCID: PMC9524193 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.952987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), is a global crisis. Although many people recover from COVID-19 infection, they are likely to develop persistent symptoms similar to those of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) after discharge. Those constellations of symptoms persist for months after infection, called Long COVID, which may lead to considerable financial burden and healthcare challenges. However, the mechanisms underlying Long COVID and ME/CFS remain unclear. Methods We collected the genes associated with Long COVID and ME/CFS in databases by restricted screening conditions and clinical sample datasets with limited filters. The common genes for Long COVID and ME/CFS were finally obtained by taking the intersection. We performed several advanced bioinformatics analyses based on common genes, including gene ontology and pathway enrichment analyses, protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis, transcription factor (TF)–gene interaction network analysis, transcription factor–miRNA co-regulatory network analysis, and candidate drug analysis prediction. Results We found nine common genes between Long COVID and ME/CFS and gained a piece of detailed information on their biological functions and signaling pathways through enrichment analysis. Five hub proteins (IL-6, IL-1B, CD8A, TP53, and CXCL8) were collected by the PPI network. The TF–gene and TF–miRNA coregulatory networks were demonstrated by NetworkAnalyst. In the end, 10 potential chemical compounds were predicted. Conclusion This study revealed common gene interaction networks of Long COVID and ME/CFS and predicted potential therapeutic drugs for clinical practice. Our findings help to identify the potential biological mechanism between Long COVID and ME/CFS. However, more laboratory and multicenter evidence is required to explore greater mechanistic insight before clinical application in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongbiao Lv
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tian Zhang
- The First Clinical Medical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junxiang Cai
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chushuan Huang
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shaofeng Zhan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianbo Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Jianbo Liu,
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Sagris M, Antonopoulos AS, Simantiris S, Oikonomou E, Siasos G, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. Pericoronary fat attenuation index-a new imaging biomarker and its diagnostic and prognostic utility: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Heart J Cardiovasc Imaging 2022; 23:e526-e536. [PMID: 36069510 PMCID: PMC9840478 DOI: 10.1093/ehjci/jeac174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Pericoronary fat attenuation index (FAI) on coronary computed tomography angiography imaging has been proposed as a novel marker of coronary vascular inflammation with prognostic value for major cardiovascular events. To date, there is no systematic review of the published literature and no meta-analysed data of previously published results. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We systematically explored published literature in MEDLINE (PubMed) before 20 January 2022 for studies assessing FAI in both diagnostic and prognostic clinical settings in patients with or without cardiovascular disease. The primary outcome was the mean difference in FAI attenuation between stable and unstable coronary plaques. The secondary outcome was the hazard ratio (HR) of high FAI values for future cardiovascular events. We calculated I2 to test heterogeneity. We used random-effects modelling for the meta-analyses to assess the primary and secondary outcomes. This study is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021229491). In total, 20 studies referred in a total of 7797 patients were included in this systematic review, while nine studies were used for the meta-analysis. FAI was significantly higher in unstable compared with stable plaques with a mean difference of 4.50 Hounsfield units [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10-7.89, I2 = 88%] among 902 patients. Higher pericoronary FAI values offered incremental prognostic value for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) in studies with prospective follow-up (HR = 3.29, 95% CI: 1.88-5.76, I2 = 75%) among 6335 patients. Pericoronary FAI seems to be a promising imaging biomarker that can be used for the detection of coronary inflammation, possibly to discriminate between stable and unstable plaques, and inform on the prognosis for future MACE. Further validation of these findings and exploration of the cost-effectiveness of the method before implementation in clinical practice are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexios S Antonopoulos
- First Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sofias 114, 11527 Athens, Greece,Centre for Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation Academy of Athens, 4 Soranou Ephessiou, 115 27 Athens, Greece
| | - Spiridon Simantiris
- First Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sofias 114, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- First Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sofias 114, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- First Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sofias 114, 11527 Athens, Greece,Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, 75 Francis St, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- First Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sofias 114, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- First Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Vas. Sofias 114, 11527 Athens, Greece
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Theofilis P, Sagris M, Oikonomou E, Antonopoulos AS, Siasos G, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. The impact of SGLT2 inhibitors on inflammation: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies in rodents. Int Immunopharmacol 2022; 111:109080. [PMID: 35908505 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2022.109080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inhibition of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) has received remarkable attention due to the beneficial effects observed in diabetes mellitus, heart failure, and kidney disease. Several mechanisms have been proposed for these pleiotropic effects, including anti-inflammatory ones. Our systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the effect of SGLT2 inhibition on inflammatory markers in experimental models. METHODS A literature search was conducted to detect studies examining the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on inflammatory markers [interleukin-6 (IL-6), C reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1)]. Consequently, a meta-analysis of the included studies was performed, assessing the differences in the levels of the inflammatory markers between the treatment groups as its primary outcome. Moreover, risk of bias, sensitivity analysis and publication bias were evaluated. RESULTS The systematic literature review yielded 30 studies whose meta-analysis suggested that treatment with an SGLT2 inhibitor resulted in decreases of IL-6 [standardized mean difference (SMD): -1.56, 95% CI -2.06 to -1.05), CRP (SMD: -2.17, 95% CI -2.80 to -1.53), TNF-α (SMD: -1.75, 95% CI -2.14 to -1.37), and MCP-1 (SMD: -2.04, 95% CI -2.91 to -1.17). The effect on CRP and TNF-α was of lesser magnitude in cases of empagliflozin use. Moderate-to-substantial heterogeneity and possible publication bias were noted. The findings remained largely unaffected after the sensitivity analyses, the exclusion of outlying studies, and trim-and-fill analyses. CONCLUSION The present meta-analysis suggests that SGLT2 inhibition results in reduction of inflammatory markers in animal models, further validating the suggested anti-inflammatory mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1st Cardiology Department, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Marios Sagris
- 1st Cardiology Department, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 1st Cardiology Department, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; 3rd Cardiology Department, "Sotiria" Regional Hospital for Chest Diseases, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Alexios S Antonopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Department, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- 1st Cardiology Department, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece; 3rd Cardiology Department, "Sotiria" Regional Hospital for Chest Diseases, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- 1st Cardiology Department, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Cardiology Department, "Hippokration" General Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece.
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Sagris M, Antonopoulos AS, Theofilis P, Oikonomou E, Siasos G, Tsalamandris S, Antoniades C, Brilakis ES, Kaski JC, Tousoulis D. Risk factors profile of young and older patients with myocardial infarction. Cardiovasc Res 2022; 118:2281-2292. [PMID: 34358302 DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Myocardial infarction (MI) among young adults (<45 years) represents a considerable proportion of the total heart attack incidents. The underlying pathophysiologic characteristics, atherosclerotic plaque features, and risk factors profile differ between young and older patients with MI. This review article discusses the main differences between the younger and elderly MI patients as well as the different pathogenic mechanisms underlying the development of MI in the younger. Young patients with MI often have eccentric atherosclerotic plaques with inflammatory features but fewer lesions, and are more likely to be smokers, obese, and have poor lifestyle, such as inactivity and alcohol intake. Compared to older MI patients, younger are more likely to be men, have familial-combined hyperlipidaemia and increased levels of lipoprotein-a. In addition, MI in younger patients may be related to use of cannabis, cocaine use, and androgenic anabolic steroids. Genomic differences especially in the pathways of coagulation and lipid metabolism have also been identified between young and older patients with MI. Better understanding of the risk factors and the anatomic and pathophysiologic processes in young adults can improve MI prevention and treatment strategies in this patient group. Awareness could help identify young subjects at increased risk and guide primary prevention strategies. Additional studies focusing on gene pathways related to lipid metabolism, inflammation, and coagulation are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Alexios S Antonopoulos
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 115 27, Greece
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Gerasimos Siasos
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 115 27, Greece
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Sotirios Tsalamandris
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 115 27, Greece
| | - Charalambos Antoniades
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Oxford Centre of Research Excellence, British Heart Foundation, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, National Institute of Health Research, Oxford, OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Emmanouil S Brilakis
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Center for Coronary Artery Disease, Minneapolis Heart Institute and Minneapolis Heart Institute Foundation, Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, MN 55407, USA
| | - Juan C Kaski
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Molecular and Clinical Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, 1st Cardiology Clinic, 'Hippokration' General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, School of Medicine, Athens 115 27, Greece
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Timpau AS, Miftode RS, Leca D, Timpau R, Miftode IL, Petris AO, Costache II, Mitu O, Nicolae A, Oancea A, Jigoranu A, Tuchilus CG, Miftode EG. A Real Pandora's Box in Pandemic Times: A Narrative Review on the Acute Cardiac Injury Due to COVID-19. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12071085. [PMID: 35888173 PMCID: PMC9318707 DOI: 10.3390/life12071085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The intricate relationship between severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the cardiovascular system is an extensively studied pandemic topic, as there is an ever-increasing amount of evidence that reports a high prevalence of acute cardiac injury in the context of viral infection. In patients with Coronavirus disease 2019, COVID-19, a significant increase in serum levels of cardiac troponin or other various biomarkers was observed, suggesting acute cardiac injury, thus predicting both a severe course of the disease and a poor outcome. Pathogenesis of acute cardiac injury is not yet completely elucidated, though several mechanisms are allegedly involved, such as a direct cardiomyocyte injury, oxygen supply-demand inequity caused by hypoxia, several active myocardial depressant factors during sepsis, and endothelial dysfunction due to the hyperinflammatory status. Moreover, the increased levels of plasma cytokines and catecholamines and a significantly enhanced prothrombotic environment may lead to the destabilization and rupture of atheroma plaques, subsequently triggering an acute coronary syndrome. In the present review, we focus on describing the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and role of biomarkers in the diagnosis and prognosis of patients with acute cardiac injury in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic. We also explore some novel therapeutic strategies involving immunomodulatory therapy, as well as their role in preventing a severe form of the disease, with both the short-term outcome and the long-term cardiovascular sequelae being equally important in patients with SARS-CoV-2 induced acute cardiac injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amalia-Stefana Timpau
- Department of Infectious Diseases (Internal Medicine II), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.T.); (D.L.); (I.-L.M.); (E.-G.M.)
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
| | - Radu-Stefan Miftode
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
- Correspondence: (R.-S.M.); (I.I.C.)
| | - Daniela Leca
- Department of Infectious Diseases (Internal Medicine II), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.T.); (D.L.); (I.-L.M.); (E.-G.M.)
| | - Razvan Timpau
- Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging, St. Spiridon Emergency Hospital, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Ionela-Larisa Miftode
- Department of Infectious Diseases (Internal Medicine II), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.T.); (D.L.); (I.-L.M.); (E.-G.M.)
| | - Antoniu Octavian Petris
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
| | - Irina Iuliana Costache
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
- Correspondence: (R.-S.M.); (I.I.C.)
| | - Ovidiu Mitu
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
| | - Ana Nicolae
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
| | - Alexandru Oancea
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
| | - Alexandru Jigoranu
- Department of Internal Medicine I (Cardiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.O.P.); (O.M.); (A.N.); (A.O.); (A.J.)
| | - Cristina Gabriela Tuchilus
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Interdisciplinarity (Microbiology), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Egidia-Gabriela Miftode
- Department of Infectious Diseases (Internal Medicine II), Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Gr. T. Popa”, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.-S.T.); (D.L.); (I.-L.M.); (E.-G.M.)
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Theofilis P, Sagris M, Antonopoulos AS, Oikonomou E, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. Non-Invasive Modalities in the Assessment of Vulnerable Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaques. Tomography 2022; 8:1742-1758. [PMID: 35894012 PMCID: PMC9326642 DOI: 10.3390/tomography8040147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary atherosclerosis is a complex, multistep process that may lead to critical complications upon progression, revolving around plaque disruption through either rupture or erosion. Several high-risk features are associated with plaque vulnerability and may add incremental prognostic information. Although invasive imaging modalities such as optical coherence tomography or intravascular ultrasound are considered to be the gold standard in the assessment of vulnerable coronary atherosclerotic plaques (VCAPs), contemporary evidence suggests a potential role for non-invasive methods in this context. Biomarkers associated with deleterious pathophysiologic pathways, including inflammation and extracellular matrix degradation, have been correlated with VCAP characteristics and adverse prognosis. However, coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography has been the most extensively investigated technique, significantly correlating with invasive method-derived VCAP features. The estimation of perivascular fat attenuation as well as radiomic-based approaches represent additional concepts that may add incremental information. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has also been evaluated in clinical studies, with promising results through the various image sequences that have been tested. As far as nuclear cardiology is concerned, the implementation of positron emission tomography in the VCAP assessment currently faces several limitations with the myocardial uptake of the radiotracer in cases of fluorodeoxyglucose use, as well as with motion correction. Moreover, the search for the ideal radiotracer and the most adequate combination (CT or MRI) is still ongoing. With a look to the future, the possible combination of imaging and circulating inflammatory and extracellular matrix degradation biomarkers in diagnostic and prognostic algorithms may represent the essential next step for the assessment of high-risk individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.S.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Marios Sagris
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.S.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Alexios S. Antonopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.S.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.S.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
- 3rd Cardiology Department, Thoracic Diseases Hospital “Sotiria”, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Tsioufis
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.S.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Cardiology Department, “Hippokration” General Hospital, Medical School, University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (M.S.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
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Theofilis P, Vordoni A, Kalaitzidis RG. COVID-19 and Kidney Disease: A Clinical Perspective. Curr Vasc Pharmacol 2022; 20:321-325. [PMID: 35570566 DOI: 10.2174/1570161120666220513103007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus- 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused a global pandemic with high morbidity and mortality. The presence of several comorbidities has been associated with a worse prognosis, with chronic kidney disease being a critical risk factor. Regarding COVID-19 complications, other than classical pneumonia and thromboembolism, acute kidney injury (AKI) is highly prevalent and represents a poor prognostic indicator linked to increased disease severity and mortality. Its pathophysiology is multifactorial, revolving around inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and activation of coagulation, while the direct viral insult of the kidney remains a matter of controversy. Indirectly, COVID-19 AKI may stem from sepsis, volume depletion, and administration of nephrotoxic agents, among others. Several markers have been proposed for the early detection of COVID-19 AKI, including blood and urinary inflammatory and kidney injury biomarkers, while urinary SARS-CoV-2 load may also be an early prognostic sign. Concerning renal replacement therapy (RRT), general principles apply to COVID-19 AKI, but sudden RRT surges may mandate adjustments in resources. Following an episode of COVID-19 AKI, there is a gradual recovery of kidney function, with pre-existing renal impairment and high serum creatinine at discharge being associated with kidney disease progression and long-term dialysis dependence. Finally, kidney transplant recipients represent a special patient category with increased susceptibility to COVID- 19 and subsequent high risk of severe disease progression. Rates of mortality, AKI, and graft rejection are significantly elevated in the presence of COVID-19, highlighting the need for prevention and careful management of the disease in this subgroup.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Theofilis
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", Piraeus, Nikaia 18454, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Vordoni
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", Piraeus, Nikaia 18454, Greece
| | - Rigas G Kalaitzidis
- Department of Nephrology, General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", Piraeus, Nikaia 18454, Greece
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Sagris M, Katsaros I, Giannopoulos S, Rosenberg RD, Altin SE, Rallidis L, Mena-Hurtado C, Armstrong EJ, Kokkinidis DG. Statins and statin intensity in peripheral artery disease. VASA 2022; 51:198-211. [PMID: 35673949 DOI: 10.1024/0301-1526/a001012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects more than 202 million people worldwide. Several studies have shown that patients with PAD are often undertreated, and that statin utilization is suboptimal. European and American guidelines highlight statins as the first-line lipid-lowering therapy to treat patients with PAD. Our objective with this meta-analysis was to further explore the impact of statins on lower extremities PAD endpoints and examine whether statin dose (high vs. low intensity) impacts outcomes. Patients and methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis according to the PRISMA guidelines. Any study that presented a comparison of use of statins vs. no statins for PAD patients or studies comparing high vs. low intensity statins were considered to be potentially eligible. We excluded studies with only critical limb threatening ischemia (CLTI) patients. The Medline (PubMed) database was searched up to January 31, 2021. A random effects meta-analysis was performed. Results: In total, 39 studies and 275,670 patients were included in this meta-analysis. In total, 136,025 (49.34%) patients were on statins vs. 139,645 (50.66%) who were not on statins. Statin use was associated with a reduction in all cause-mortality by 42% (HR: 0.58, 95% CI: 0.49-0.67, p<0.01) and cardiovascular death by 43% (HR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.40-0.74, p<0.01). Statin use was associated with an increase in amputation-free survival by 56% (HR: 0.44, 95% CI: 0.30-0.58, p<0.01). The risk of amputation and loss of patency were reduced by 35% (HR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.41-0.89, p<0.01) and 46% (HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.34-0.74, p<0.01), respectively. Statin use was also associated with a reduction in the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) by 35% (HR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.51-0.80, p<0.01) and myocardial infarction rates by 41% (HR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.33-0.86, p<0.01). Among patients treated with statins, the high-intensity treatment group was associated with a reduction in all cause-mortality by 36% (HR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.54-0.74, p<0.01) compared to patients treated with low intensity statins. Conclusions: Statin treatment among patients with PAD was associated with a statistically significant reduction in all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, MACE, risk for amputation, or loss of patency. Higher statin dose seems to be associated with improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- Department of Internal Medicine, General Hospital of Nikaia, Piraeus, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Stefanos Giannopoulos
- Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Russell D Rosenberg
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine/Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA.,Vascular Medicine Outcomes Program, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - S Elissa Altin
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine/Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Loukianos Rallidis
- Department of Cardiology, University General Hospital Attikon, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
| | - Carlos Mena-Hurtado
- Vascular Medicine Outcomes Program, Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Ehrin J Armstrong
- Adventist Heart & Vascular Institute, Adventist Health St. Helena, CA, USA
| | - Damianos G Kokkinidis
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine/Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT, USA
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Sagris M, Tzoumas A, Kokkinidis DG, Tzavellas G, Korosoglou G, Lichtenberg M. Invasive and Pharmacological Treatment of Deep Vein Thrombosis: a Scoping Review. Curr Pharm Des 2022; 28:778-786. [PMID: 35440298 DOI: 10.2174/1381612828666220418084339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The annual occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is 300,000-600,000 cases in the United States and 700,000 in Europe. VTE includes deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of upper or lower extremities, superior and inferior vena cava thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism (PE) as well. The primary treatment of DVT includes oral anticoagulation to prevent the progression of the thrombus and decrease the risk of pulmonary embolism. Depending on the symptoms, more invasive treatments can be applied to target the iliofemoral thrombus and its removal. However, less emphasis is given to acute symptomatology, early recovery of function, quality of life improvement, and the individualized likelihood of developing post-thrombotic syndrome. While invasive therapy has been used to enhance the acute management of iliofemoral DVT, our knowledge about the overall outcomes associated with the invasive treatment of VTE is still limited. In this review, we illustrate the available data on pharmacological and endovascular management of iliofemoral VTE, including therapies such as catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT), mechanical thrombectomy (PMT), and pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis (PCDT).
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- Department of Medicine, General Hospital of Nikaia, Piraeus, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Tzoumas
- Department of Medicine, University of Cincinnati Health, Cincinnati, OH
| | - Damianos G Kokkinidis
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine/Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT
| | - Georgios Tzavellas
- Department of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital
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Factors Associated with Platelet Activation-Recent Pharmaceutical Approaches. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063301. [PMID: 35328719 PMCID: PMC8955963 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Platelets are at the forefront of human health and disease following the advances in their research presented in past decades. Platelet activation, their most crucial function, although beneficial in the case of vascular injury, may represent the initial step for thrombotic complications characterizing various pathologic states, primarily atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. In this review, we initially summarize the structural and functional characteristics of platelets. Next, we focus on the process of platelet activation and its associated factors, indicating the potential molecular mechanisms involving inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and miRs. Finally, an overview of the available antiplatelet agents is being portrayed, together with agents possessing off-set platelet-inhibitory actions, while an extensive presentation of drugs under investigation is being given.
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Petersen EL, Goßling A, Adam G, Aepfelbacher M, Behrendt CA, Cavus E, Cheng B, Fischer N, Gallinat J, Kühn S, Gerloff C, Koch-Gromus U, Härter M, Hanning U, Huber TB, Kluge S, Knobloch JK, Kuta P, Schmidt-Lauber C, Lütgehetmann M, Magnussen C, Mayer C, Muellerleile K, Münch J, Nägele FL, Petersen M, Renné T, Riedl KA, Rimmele DL, Schäfer I, Schulz H, Tahir E, Waschki B, Wenzel JP, Zeller T, Ziegler A, Thomalla G, Twerenbold R, Blankenberg S. Multi-organ assessment in mainly non-hospitalized individuals after SARS-CoV-2 infection: The Hamburg City Health Study COVID programme. Eur Heart J 2022; 43:1124-1137. [PMID: 34999762 PMCID: PMC8755397 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehab914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Revised: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Long-term sequelae may occur after SARS-CoV-2 infection. We comprehensively assessed organ-specific functions in individuals after mild to moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection compared with controls from the general population. METHODS AND RESULTS Four hundred and forty-three mainly non-hospitalized individuals were examined in median 9.6 months after the first positive SARS-CoV-2 test and matched for age, sex, and education with 1328 controls from a population-based German cohort. We assessed pulmonary, cardiac, vascular, renal, and neurological status, as well as patient-related outcomes. Bodyplethysmography documented mildly lower total lung volume (regression coefficient -3.24, adjusted P = 0.014) and higher specific airway resistance (regression coefficient 8.11, adjusted P = 0.001) after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Cardiac assessment revealed slightly lower measures of left (regression coefficient for left ventricular ejection fraction on transthoracic echocardiography -0.93, adjusted P = 0.015) and right ventricular function and higher concentrations of cardiac biomarkers (factor 1.14 for high-sensitivity troponin, 1.41 for N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, adjusted P ≤ 0.01) in post-SARS-CoV-2 patients compared with matched controls, but no significant differences in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging findings. Sonographically non-compressible femoral veins, suggesting deep vein thrombosis, were substantially more frequent after SARS-CoV-2 infection (odds ratio 2.68, adjusted P < 0.001). Glomerular filtration rate (regression coefficient -2.35, adjusted P = 0.019) was lower in post-SARS-CoV-2 cases. Relative brain volume, prevalence of cerebral microbleeds, and infarct residuals were similar, while the mean cortical thickness was higher in post-SARS-CoV-2 cases. Cognitive function was not impaired. Similarly, patient-related outcomes did not differ. CONCLUSION Subjects who apparently recovered from mild to moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection show signs of subclinical multi-organ affection related to pulmonary, cardiac, thrombotic, and renal function without signs of structural brain damage, neurocognitive, or quality-of-life impairment. Respective screening may guide further patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina Larissa Petersen
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alina Goßling
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Adam
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Aepfelbacher
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian-Alexander Behrendt
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ersin Cavus
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bastian Cheng
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Nicole Fischer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Gallinat
- Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Simone Kühn
- Clinic and Policlinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Clinic Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Gerloff
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Uwe Koch-Gromus
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Härter
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Uta Hanning
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Neuroradiology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias B. Huber
- III. Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Kluge
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes K. Knobloch
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Piotr Kuta
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg- Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christina Magnussen
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Carola Mayer
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Kai Muellerleile
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Julia Münch
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Felix Leonard Nägele
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Marvin Petersen
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Renné
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg- Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis (CTH), Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Katharina Alina Riedl
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - David Leander Rimmele
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ines Schäfer
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Holger Schulz
- Department of Medical Psychology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Enver Tahir
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Benjamin Waschki
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Hamburg, Germany
- Hospital Itzehoe, Pneumology, Itzehoe, Germany
- Airway Research Center North (ARCN), German Center for Lung Research (DZL), LungenClinic Grosshansdorf, Grosshansdorf, Germany
| | - Jan-Per Wenzel
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tanja Zeller
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Hamburg, Germany
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andreas Ziegler
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Cardio-CARE, Medizincampus Davos, Davos, Switzerland
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Computer Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Götz Thomalla
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Raphael Twerenbold
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Hamburg, Germany
- University Center of Cardiovascular Science, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Blankenberg
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- Population Health Research Department, University Heart and Vascular Center, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), partner site Hamburg/Kiel/Luebeck, Hamburg, Germany
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Ning Q, Wu D, Wang X, Xi D, Chen T, Chen G, Wang H, Lu H, Wang M, Zhu L, Hu J, Liu T, Ma K, Han M, Luo X. The mechanism underlying extrapulmonary complications of the coronavirus disease 2019 and its therapeutic implication. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:57. [PMID: 35197452 PMCID: PMC8863906 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-00907-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly transmissible disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that poses a major threat to global public health. Although COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system, causing severe pneumonia and acute respiratory distress syndrome in severe cases, it can also result in multiple extrapulmonary complications. The pathogenesis of extrapulmonary damage in patients with COVID-19 is probably multifactorial, involving both the direct effects of SARS-CoV-2 and the indirect mechanisms associated with the host inflammatory response. Recognition of features and pathogenesis of extrapulmonary complications has clinical implications for identifying disease progression and designing therapeutic strategies. This review provides an overview of the extrapulmonary complications of COVID-19 from immunological and pathophysiologic perspectives and focuses on the pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets for the management of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Ning
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Di Wu
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaojing Wang
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dong Xi
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tao Chen
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guang Chen
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongwu Wang
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Huiling Lu
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Wang
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Junjian Hu
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ke Ma
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Meifang Han
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Xiaoping Luo
- National Medical Center for Major Public Health Events, Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Theofilis P, Vordoni A, Koukoulaki M, Vlachopanos G, Kalaitzidis RG. Overview of infections as an etiologic factor and complication in patients with vasculitides. Rheumatol Int 2022; 42:759-770. [PMID: 35165771 PMCID: PMC8853270 DOI: 10.1007/s00296-022-05100-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Theofilis
- Center for Nephrology "G. Papadakis", General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", 18454, Piraeus, Nikaia, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Vordoni
- Center for Nephrology "G. Papadakis", General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", 18454, Piraeus, Nikaia, Greece
| | - Maria Koukoulaki
- Center for Nephrology "G. Papadakis", General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", 18454, Piraeus, Nikaia, Greece
| | - Georgios Vlachopanos
- Center for Nephrology "G. Papadakis", General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", 18454, Piraeus, Nikaia, Greece
| | - Rigas G Kalaitzidis
- Center for Nephrology "G. Papadakis", General Hospital of Nikaia-Piraeus "Agios Panteleimon", 18454, Piraeus, Nikaia, Greece.
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38
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Sagris M, Theofilis P, Antonopoulos AS, Oikonomou E, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. Genetic Predisposition and Inflammatory Inhibitors in COVID-19: Where Do We Stand? Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10020242. [PMID: 35203452 PMCID: PMC8868779 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10020242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and the resulting coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) have led to a global pandemic associated with high fatality rates. COVID-19 primarily manifests in the respiratory system as an acute respiratory distress syndrome following viral entry through the angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) that is present in pulmonary epithelial cells. Central in COVID-19 is the burst of cytokines, known as a “cytokine storm”, and the subsequent widespread endothelial activation, leading to cardiovascular complications such as myocarditis, arrhythmias, and adverse vascular events, among others. Genetic alterations may play an additive, detrimental role in the clinical course of patients with COVID-19, since gene alterations concerning ACE2, major histocompatibility complex class I, and toll-like receptors may predispose patients to a worse clinical outcome. Since the role of inflammation is quintessential in COVID-19, pharmacologic inhibition of various signaling pathways such as the interleukin-1 and -6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interferon gamma, Janus kinase-signal transducer and activator of transcription, and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor may ameliorate the prognosis following timely administration. Finally, frequently used, non-specific anti-inflammatory agents such as corticosteroids, statins, colchicine, and macrolides represent additional therapeutic considerations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, “Hippokration” General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-21-3208-8099; Fax: +30-21-3208-8676
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, “Hippokration” General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Alexios S. Antonopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, “Hippokration” General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, “Hippokration” General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, “Sotiria” Thoracic Diseases Hospital of Athens, University of Athens Medical School, 157 72 Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Tsioufis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, “Hippokration” General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, School of Medicine, “Hippokration” General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 157 72 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
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Sagris M, Vardas EP, Theofilis P, Antonopoulos AS, Oikonomou E, Tousoulis D. Atrial Fibrillation: Pathogenesis, Predisposing Factors, and Genetics. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:ijms23010006. [PMID: 35008432 PMCID: PMC8744894 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most frequent arrhythmia managed in clinical practice, and it is linked to an increased risk of death, stroke, and peripheral embolism. The Global Burden of Disease shows that the estimated prevalence of AF is up to 33.5 million patients. So far, successful therapeutic techniques have been implemented, with a high health-care cost burden. As a result, identifying modifiable risk factors for AF and suitable preventive measures may play a significant role in enhancing community health and lowering health-care system expenditures. Several mechanisms, including electrical and structural remodeling of atrial tissue, have been proposed to contribute to the development of AF. This review article discusses the predisposing factors in AF including the different pathogenic mechanisms, sedentary lifestyle, and dietary habits, as well as the potential genetic burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-213-2088099; Fax: +30-213-2088676
| | - Emmanouil P. Vardas
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
- Department of Cardiology, General Hospital of Athens “G. Gennimatas”, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
| | - Alexios S. Antonopoulos
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
- 3rd Department of Cardiology, “Sotiria” Thoracic Diseases Hospital of Athens, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- 1st Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece; (E.P.V.); (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (D.T.)
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Sagris M, Theofilis P, Antonopoulos AS, Oikonomou E, Paschaliori C, Galiatsatos N, Tsioufis K, Tousoulis D. Inflammation in Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413471. [PMID: 34948272 PMCID: PMC8703507 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic low-grade inflammation is involved in coronary atherosclerosis, presenting multiple clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic to stable angina, acute coronary syndrome, heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Coronary microvasculature consists of vessels with a diameter less than 500 μm, whose potential structural and functional abnormalities can lead to inappropriate dilatation and an inability to meet the required myocardium oxygen demands. This review focuses on the pathogenesis of coronary microvascular dysfunction and the capability of non-invasive screening methods to detect the phenomenon. Anti-inflammatory agents, such as statins and immunomodulators, including anakinra, tocilizumab, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibitors, have been assessed recently and may constitute additional or alternative treatment approaches to reduce cardiovascular events in atherosclerotic heart disease characterized by coronary microvascular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios Sagris
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+30-213-2088099; Fax: +30-213-2088676
| | - Panagiotis Theofilis
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Alexios S. Antonopoulos
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Evangelos Oikonomou
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
- Department of Cardiology, “Sotiria” Thoracic Diseases Hospital of Athens, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Christina Paschaliori
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Nikolaos Galiatsatos
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Kostas Tsioufis
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
| | - Dimitris Tousoulis
- Cardiology Clinic, ‘Hippokration’ General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (P.T.); (A.S.A.); (E.O.); (C.P.); (N.G.); (K.T.); (D.T.)
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Cristian D, Bagatto D. Severe stroke in patients admitted to intensive care unit after COVID-19 infection: pictorial essay of a case series. BRAIN HEMORRHAGES 2021; 3:29-35. [PMID: 34927033 PMCID: PMC8667478 DOI: 10.1016/j.hest.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients infected by COVID-19 could require intensive care unit admission especially due to acute respiratory failure. However, neurological manifestations are very common. Among these, ischemic stroke or cerebral hemorrhage may have unfavorable outcome. The mechanisms leading to cerebral damage by SARS-CoV2 are still under debate. One of the most accepted theories implies an endothelial activation which in turns increase the risk of thrombus formation with the development of stroke, either ischemic or hemorrhagic. The more severe the COVID-19 disease, the higher the risk of stroke. Stroke in ICU patients are not frequent, but cerebral hemorrhage has devastating effects with high mortality. In these pictorial essay of case reports, main clinical aspects are discussed, along with a summary of the evidence about pathophysiology and treatment of these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deana Cristian
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Health Integrated Agency of Friuli Centrale, Udine, Italy
| | - Daniele Bagatto
- Department of Neuroradiology, Health Integrated Agency of Friuli Centrale, Udine, Italy
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Diavati S, Sagris M, Terentes-Printzios D, Vlachopoulos C. Anticoagulation Treatment in Venous Thromboembolism: Options and Optimal Duration. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 28:296-305. [PMID: 34766887 DOI: 10.2174/1381612827666211111150705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Venous thromboembolism (VTE), clinically presenting as deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), constitutes a major global healthcare concern with severe complications, long-term morbidity and mortality. Although several clinical, genetic and acquired risk factors for VTE have been identified, the molecular pathophysiology and mechanisms of disease progression remain poorly understood. Anticoagulation has been the cornerstone of therapy for decades, but there still are uncertainties regarding primary and secondary VTE prevention, as well as optimal therapy duration. In this review we discuss the role of factor Xa in coagulation cascade and the different choices of anticoagulation therapy based on patients' predisposing risk factors and risk of event recurrence. Further, we compare newer agents to traditional anticoagulation treatment, based on most recent studies and guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavrianna Diavati
- Department of Haematology and Bone Marrow Transplantation, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laikon General Hospital, Athens. Greece
| | | | | | - Charalambos Vlachopoulos
- First Department of Cardiology, Hippokration Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens. Greece
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Inflammatory Mediators of Platelet Activation: Focus on Atherosclerosis and COVID-19. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222011170. [PMID: 34681830 PMCID: PMC8539848 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases are characterized by a dysregulated inflammatory and thrombotic state, leading to devastating complications with increased morbidity and mortality rates. Summary: In this review article, we present the available evidence regarding the impact of inflammation on platelet activation in atherosclerosis. Key messages: In the context of a dysfunctional vascular endothelium, structural alterations by means of endothelial glycocalyx thinning or functional modifications through impaired NO bioavailability and increased levels of von Willebrand factor result in platelet activation. Moreover, neutrophil-derived mediators, as well as neutrophil extracellular traps formation, have been implicated in the process of platelet activation and platelet-leukocyte aggregation. The role of pro-inflammatory cytokines is also critical since their receptors are also situated in platelets while TNF-α has also been found to induce inflammatory, metabolic, and bone marrow changes. Additionally, important progress has been made towards novel concepts of the interaction between inflammation and platelet activation, such as the toll-like receptors, myeloperoxidase, and platelet factor-4. The accumulating evidence is especially important in the era of the coronavirus disease-19 pandemic, characterized by an excessive inflammatory burden leading to thrombotic complications, partially mediated by platelet activation. Lastly, recent advances in anti-inflammatory therapies point towards an anti-thrombotic effect secondary to diminished platelet activation.
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