Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
3.7
4.7
Journals
Biomedicines
Special Issues
Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0
share announcement

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0

A special issue of Biomedicines (ISSN 2227-9059). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular and Translational Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 December 2023) | Viewed by 29448

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Alfredo Caturano

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Piazza Luigi Miraglia 2, I-80138 Naples, Italy
Interests: cardiovascular (CV) risk; diabetes; heart failure (HF); metformin; diabetes complications
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide. In 2019, it has been estimated that 17.9 million people died from CVDs (32% of all global deaths). Of these deaths, 85% were due to heart attack and stroke. These data are usually powered by the coexistence of metabolic diseases, in particular diabetes. In fact, about 422 million people worldwide have diabetes, the majority living in low- and middle-income countries, and 1.5 million deaths are directly attributed to diabetes each year. It is vital to detect CVDs and metabolic disease as early as possible, as most cases can be prevented by addressing behavioral risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diet and obesity, physical inactivity, and harmful use of alcohol. Moreover, we are the main actors and observers of the innovations in every field of CVDs and metabolic disease treatment, from the pharmacological approach, with the advent of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors for both heart failure and diabetes, to the improvement of new less-invasive and invasive techniques such as immediate revascularization in both heart and brain infarction and new methods of mechanical cardiac support and multiorgan transplantation for the most advanced forms of heart failure.

Given the complexity of this topic and its impact on clinical practice and public health, Biomedicines is launching a Special Issue entitled “Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatments and Future Directions” with the aim of gathering accurate and up-to-date scientific information on all aspects of new and upcoming treatment opportunities for CVDs and metabolic diseases. It is my privilege to invite you and your co-workers to share their experience and expertise by submitting original research articles, systematic reviews and review articles reporting new ideas and recent advances in this topic.

Dr. Alfredo Caturano
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomedicines is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • cardiovascular disease
  • metabolic disease
  • diabetes
  • therapy
  • drugs
  • implantable device
  • heart failure
  • heart transplantation
  • cardiac surgery
  • future directions

Related Special Issues

Published Papers (20 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

17 pages, 3129 KiB  
Article
Exploring Cardiac Exosomal RNAs of Acute Myocardial Infarction
by Seung Eun Jung, Sang Woo Kim and Jung-Won Choi
Biomedicines 2024, 12(2), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12020430 - 14 Feb 2024
Viewed by 630
Abstract
Background: Myocardial infarction (MI), often a frequent symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI), a major form of cardiovascular disease, necessitates a deep understanding of its complex pathophysiology to develop innovative [...] Read more.
Background: Myocardial infarction (MI), often a frequent symptom of coronary artery disease (CAD), is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Acute myocardial infarction (AMI), a major form of cardiovascular disease, necessitates a deep understanding of its complex pathophysiology to develop innovative therapeutic strategies. Exosomal RNAs (exoRNA), particularly microRNAs (miRNAs) within cardiac tissues, play a critical role in intercellular communication and pathophysiological processes of AMI. Methods: This study aimed to delineate the exoRNA landscape, focusing especially on miRNAs in animal models using high-throughput sequencing. The approach included sequencing analysis to identify significant miRNAs in AMI, followed by validation of the functions of selected miRNAs through in vitro studies involving primary cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts. Results: Numerous differentially expressed miRNAs in AMI were identified using five mice per group. The functions of 20 selected miRNAs were validated through in vitro studies with primary cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts. Conclusions: This research enhances understanding of post-AMI molecular changes in cardiac tissues and investigates the potential of exoRNAs as biomarkers or therapeutic targets. These findings offer new insights into the molecular mechanisms of AMIs, paving the way for RNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics and therapies and contributing to the advancement of cardiovascular medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 911 KiB  
Article
Sex X Time Interactions in Lp(a) and LDL-C Response to Evolocumab
by Federica Fogacci, Serra İlayda Yerlitaş, Marina Giovannini, Gökmen Zararsız, Paolo Lido, Claudio Borghi and Arrigo F. G. Cicero
Biomedicines 2023, 11(12), 3271; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11123271 - 11 Dec 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1957
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there were significant sex x time interactions in lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) response to treatment with the Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 inhibitor (PCSK9i) Evolocumab, in a real-life clinical setting. For [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there were significant sex x time interactions in lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) response to treatment with the Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin type 9 inhibitor (PCSK9i) Evolocumab, in a real-life clinical setting. For this purpose, we pooled data from 176 outpatients (Men: 93; Women: 83) clinically evaluated at baseline and every six months after starting Evolocumab. Individuals who had been on PCSK9i for less than 30 months and nonadherent patients were excluded from the analysis. Over time, absolute values of Lp(a) plasma concentrations significantly decreased in the entire cohort (p-value < 0.001) and by sex (p-value < 0.001 in men and p-value = 0.002 in and women). However, there were no sex-related significant differences. Absolute plasma concentrations of LDL-C significantly decreased over time in the entire cohort and by sex (p-value < 0.001 always), with greater improvements in men compared to women. The sex x time interaction was statistically significant in LDL-C (all p-values < 0.05), while absolute changes in Lp(a) were not influenced by either sex or time (all p-value > 0.05). Our data partially reinforce the presence of differences in response to treatment to PCSK9i between men and women and are essential to gain a better understanding of the relationship between LDL-C and Lp(a) lowering in response to PCSK9i. Further research will clarify whether these sex-related significant differences translate into a meaningful difference in the long-term risk of ASCVD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1256 KiB  
Article
Predictive Value of Fatty Liver Index for Long-Term Cardiovascular Events in Patients Receiving Liver Transplantation: The COLT Study
by Alfredo Caturano, Gaetana Albanese, Anna Di Martino, Carmine Coppola, Vincenzo Russo, Raffaele Galiero, Luca Rinaldi, Marcellino Monda, Raffaele Marfella, Ferdinando Carlo Sasso and Teresa Salvatore
Biomedicines 2023, 11(10), 2866; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11102866 - 23 Oct 2023
Viewed by 891
Abstract
Background and aims: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of early mortality in orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) patients. The fatty liver index (FLI) is strongly associated with carotid and coronary atherosclerosis, as well as cardiovascular mortality, surpassing traditional risk factors. Given the [...] Read more.
Background and aims: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of early mortality in orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) patients. The fatty liver index (FLI) is strongly associated with carotid and coronary atherosclerosis, as well as cardiovascular mortality, surpassing traditional risk factors. Given the lack of data on FLI as a predictor of cardiovascular events in OLT recipients, we conducted a retrospective study to examine this topic. Methods and results: We performed a multicenter retrospective analysis of adult OLT recipients who had regular follow-up visits every three to six months (or more frequently if necessary) from January 1995 to December 2020. The minimum follow-up period was two years post-intervention. Anamnestic, clinical, anthropometric and laboratory data were collected, and FLI was calculated for all patients. Clinical trial.gov registration ID NCT05895669. A total of 110 eligible patients (median age 57 years [IQR: 50–62], 72.7% male) were followed for a median duration of 92.3 months (IQR: 45.7–172.4) post-liver transplantation. During this period, 16 patients (14.5%) experienced at least one adverse cardiovascular event (including fatal and non-fatal myocardial infarction and stroke). Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis identified a cut-off value of 66.0725 for predicting cardiovascular events after OLT, with 86.7% sensitivity and 63.7% specificity (68% vs. 31%; p = 0.001). Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients with FLI > 66 had significantly reduced cardiovascular event-free survival than those with FLI ≤ 66 (log-rank: 0.0008). Furthermore, multivariable Cox regression analysis demonstrated that FLI > 66 and pre-OLT smoking were independently associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that FLI > 66 and pre-OLT smoking predict cardiovascular risk in adult OLT recipients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 692 KiB  
Article
A Comparison of Two Multi-Tasking Approaches to Cognitive Training in Cardiac Surgery Patients
by Irina Tarasova, Olga Trubnikova, Irina Kukhareva, Irina Syrova, Anastasia Sosnina, Darya Kupriyanova and Olga Barbarash
Biomedicines 2023, 11(10), 2823; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11102823 - 18 Oct 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 741
Abstract
Background: The multi-tasking approach may be promising for cognitive rehabilitation in cardiac surgery patients due to a significant effect on attentional and executive functions. This study aimed to compare the neuropsychological changes in patients who have undergone two variants of multi-tasking training and [...] Read more.
Background: The multi-tasking approach may be promising for cognitive rehabilitation in cardiac surgery patients due to a significant effect on attentional and executive functions. This study aimed to compare the neuropsychological changes in patients who have undergone two variants of multi-tasking training and a control group in the early postoperative period of coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Methods: One hundred and ten CABG patients were divided into three groups: cognitive training (CT) I (a postural balance task with mental arithmetic, verbal fluency, and divergent tasks) (n = 30), CT II (a simple visual–motor reaction with mental arithmetic, verbal fluency, and divergent tasks) (n = 40), and control (n = 40). Results: Two or more cognitive indicators improved in 93.3% of CT I patients, in 72.5% of CT II patients, and in 62.5% of control patients; CT I patients differed from CT II and control (p = 0.04 and p = 0.008, respectively). The improving short-term memory and attention was found more frequently in the CT I group as compared to control (56.7% vs. 15%; p = 0.0005). The cognitive improvement of all domains (psychomotor and executive functions, attention, and short-term memory) was also revealed in CT I patients more frequently than CT II (46.7% vs. 20%; p = 0.02) and control (46.7% vs. 5%; p = 0.0005). Conclusions: The CT I multi-tasking training was more effective at improving the cognitive performance in cardiac surgery patients as compared to CT II training and standard post-surgery management. The findings of this study will be helpful for future studies involving multi-tasking training. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1313 KiB  
Article
Antidiabetic Molecule Efficacy in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus—A Real-Life Clinical Practice Study
by Teodor Salmen, Ali Abbas Rizvi, Manfredi Rizzo, Valeria-Anca Pietrosel, Ioana-Cristina Bica, Cosmina Theodora Diaconu, Claudia Gabriela Potcovaru, Bianca-Margareta Salmen, Oana Andreia Coman, Anca Bobircă, Roxana-Adriana Stoica and Anca Pantea Stoian
Biomedicines 2023, 11(9), 2455; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11092455 - 04 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 967
Abstract
In this paper, we aim to evaluate the efficacy of antidiabetic cardioprotective molecules such as Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors (SGLT-2i) and Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs) when used with other glucose-lowering drugs, lipid-lowering, and blood pressure (BP)-lowering drugs in a real-life setting. [...] Read more.
In this paper, we aim to evaluate the efficacy of antidiabetic cardioprotective molecules such as Sodium-Glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors (SGLT-2i) and Glucagon-like Peptide 1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs) when used with other glucose-lowering drugs, lipid-lowering, and blood pressure (BP)-lowering drugs in a real-life setting. A retrospective, observational study on 477 patients admitted consecutively in 2019 to the outpatient clinic of a tertiary care unit for Diabetes Mellitus was conducted. Body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP) (both systolic and diastolic), and metabolic parameters, as well as A1c hemoglobin, fasting glycaemia and lipid profile, including total cholesterol (C), HDL-C, LDL-C and triglycerides), were evaluated at baseline and two follow-up visits were scheduled (6 months and 12 months) in order to assess the antidiabetic medication efficacy. Both SGLT-2i and GLP-1 RAs were efficient in terms of weight control reflected by BMI; metabolic control suggested by fasting glycaemia and A1c; and the diastolic component of BP control when comparing the data from the 6 and 12-month visits to the baseline, and when comparing the 12-month visit to the 6-month visit. Moreover, when comparing SGLT-2i and GLP-1 RAs with metformin, there are efficacy data for SGLT-2i at baseline in terms of BMI, fasting glycaemia, and HbA1c. In this retrospective study, both classes of cardioprotective molecules, when used in conjunction with other glucose-lowering, antihypertensive, and lipid-lowering medications, appeared to be efficient in a real-life setting for the management of T2DM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 502 KiB  
Article
Handgrip Strength Is Associated with Specific Aspects of Vascular Function in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome
by Juan Carlos Sánchez-Delgado, Daniel D. Cohen, Paul A. Camacho-López, Javier Carreño-Robayo, Alvaro Castañeda-Hernández, Daniel García-González, Daniel Martínez-Bello, Gustavo Aroca-Martinez, Gianfranco Parati and Patricio Lopez-Jaramillo
Biomedicines 2023, 11(9), 2435; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11092435 - 31 Aug 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1175
Abstract
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a disorder associated with an increased risk for the development of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Lower isometric handgrip strength (HGS) is associated with an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases. However, the association between HGS and arterial stiffness [...] Read more.
Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a disorder associated with an increased risk for the development of diabetes mellitus and its complications. Lower isometric handgrip strength (HGS) is associated with an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases. However, the association between HGS and arterial stiffness parameters, which are considered the predictors of morbidity and mortality in individuals with MetS, is not well defined. Objective: To determine the association between HGS and HGS asymmetry on components of vascular function in adults with MetS. Methods: We measured handgrip strength normalized to bodyweight (HGS/kg), HGS asymmetry, body composition, blood glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure, pulse wave velocity (PWV), reflection coefficient (RC), augmentation index @75 bpm (AIx@75) and peripheral vascular resistance (PVR) in 55 adults with a diagnosis of MetS between 25 and 54 years old. Results: Mean age was 43.1 ± 7.0 years, 56.3% were females. HGS/kg was negatively correlated with AIx@75 (r = −0.440), p < 0.05, but these associations were not significant after adjusting for age and sex. However, when interaction effects between sex, HGS/kg and age were examined, we observed an inverse relationship between HGS/kg and AIx@75 in the older adults in the sample, whereas in the younger adults, a weak direct association was found. We also found a significant association between HGS asymmetry and PVR (beta = 30, 95% CI = 7.02; 54.2; p <0.012). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that in people with MetS, maintaining muscle strength may have an increasingly important role in older age in the attenuation of age-related increases in AIx@75—a marker of vascular stiffness—and that a higher HGS asymmetry could be associated with a greater vascular resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 1977 KiB  
Communication
Macrophages of the Cardiorenal Axis and Myocardial Infarction
by Maria Kercheva, Vyacheslav Ryabov, Aleksandra Gombozhapova, Ivan Stepanov and Julia Kzhyshkowska
Biomedicines 2023, 11(7), 1843; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11071843 - 27 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 995
Abstract
The aim of our study was to compare the features of macrophage (mf) composition of the kidneys in patients with fatal myocardial infarction (MI) and in patients without cardiovascular diseases (CVD). We used kidney fragments taken during autopsy. Macrophage infiltration was assessed by [...] Read more.
The aim of our study was to compare the features of macrophage (mf) composition of the kidneys in patients with fatal myocardial infarction (MI) and in patients without cardiovascular diseases (CVD). We used kidney fragments taken during autopsy. Macrophage infiltration was assessed by immunohistochemistry: antibodies CD68 were used as a common mf marker, CD80—M1 type mf marker, CD163, CD206, and stabilin-1—M2 type. Macrophage composition of the kidneys in patients with fatal MI was characterized by the predominance of CD163+ cells among studied cells, and the control group was characterized by the predominance of CD163+, CD206+, and CD68+. In patients with MI, biphasic response from kidney cells was characterized for CD80+ and CD206+: their number decreased by the long-term period of MI; other cells did not show any dynamics. The exact number of CD80+ cells in kidneys of individuals without CVD was slightly higher than in patients with MI, and the number of CD206+—strikingly predominant. Subsequent analysis of CD80+ and CD206+ cells in a larger sample, as well as comparison of data with results obtained from survivors of MI, may bring us closer to understanding whether the influence on these cells can serve as a new target in personalized therapy in postinfarction complications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3014 KiB  
Article
Fibroblast Growth Factor 23: Potential Marker of Invisible Heart Damage in Diabetic Population
by Anna Kurpas, Karolina Supel, Paulina Wieczorkiewicz, Joanna Bodalska Duleba and Marzenna Zielinska
Biomedicines 2023, 11(6), 1523; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11061523 - 25 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1179
Abstract
Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) detects myocardial dysfunction despite a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has become a promising biomarker of cardiovascular risk. This study aimed to determine whether FGF23 may be used as a marker of myocardial damage [...] Read more.
Two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) detects myocardial dysfunction despite a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) has become a promising biomarker of cardiovascular risk. This study aimed to determine whether FGF23 may be used as a marker of myocardial damage among patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) and no previous history of myocardial infarction. The study enrolled 71 patients with a median age of 70 years. Laboratory data were analyzed retrospectively. Serum FGF23 levels were determined using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. All patients underwent conventional echocardiography and 2DSTE. Baseline characteristics indicated that the median time elapsed since diagnosis with T2DM was 19 years. All subjects were divided into two groups according to left ventricular diastolic function. Individuals with confirmed left ventricular diastolic dysfunction had significantly lower levels of estimated glomerular filtration rate and higher values of hemoglobin A1c. Global circumferential strain (GCS) was reduced in the majority of patients. Only an epicardial GCS correlated significantly with the FGF23 concentration in all patients. The study indicates that a cardiac strain is a reliable tool for a subtle myocardial damage assessment. It is possible that FGF23 may become an early diagnostic marker of myocardial damage in patients with T2DM. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 917 KiB  
Article
Microbiota Metabolism Failure as a Risk Factor for Postoperative Complications after Aortic Prosthetics
by Natalia Beloborodova, Alisa Pautova, Marina Grekova, Mikhail Yadgarov, Oksana Grin, Alexander Eremenko and Maxim Babaev
Biomedicines 2023, 11(5), 1335; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11051335 - 30 Apr 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1217
Abstract
Postoperative complications in cardiovascular surgery remain an important unresolved problem, in particular in patients with aortic aneurysm. The role of the altered microbiota in such patients is of great interest. The aim of this pilot study was to determine whether the development of [...] Read more.
Postoperative complications in cardiovascular surgery remain an important unresolved problem, in particular in patients with aortic aneurysm. The role of the altered microbiota in such patients is of great interest. The aim of this pilot study was to determine whether the development of postoperative complications in patients with aortic aneurysm is related with initial or acquired disorders of microbiota metabolism by monitoring the level of some aromatic microbial metabolites (AMMs) circulating in the blood before the surgery and in the early postoperative period. The study comprised patients with aortic aneurysm (n = 79), including patients without complications (n = 36) and patients with all types of complications (n = 43). The serum samples from the patients were collected before and 6 h after the end of the surgery. The most significant results were obtained for the sum of three sepsis-associated AMMs. This level was higher before the surgery in comparison with that of healthy volunteers (n = 48), p < 0.001, and it was also higher in the early postoperative period in patients with all types of complications compared to those without complications, p = 0.001; the area under the ROC curve, the cut-off value, and the odds ratio were 0.7; 2.9 µmol/L, and 5.5, respectively. Impaired microbiota metabolism is important in the development of complications after complex reconstructive aortic surgery, which is the basis for the search for a new prevention strategy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 2835 KiB  
Article
Inflammation, Microcalcification, and Increased Expression of Osteopontin Are Histological Hallmarks of Plaque Vulnerability in Patients with Advanced Carotid Artery Stenosis
by Ioan Alexandru Balmos, Emőke Horváth, Klara Brinzaniuc, Adrian Vasile Muresan, Peter Olah, Gyopár Beáta Molnár and Előd Ernő Nagy
Biomedicines 2023, 11(3), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11030881 - 13 Mar 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1267
Abstract
Background: severe carotid artery stenosis is a major cause of ischemic stroke and consequent neurological deficits. The most important steps of atherosclerotic plaque development, leading to carotid stenosis, are well-known; however, their exact timeline and intricate causal relationships need to be more characterized. [...] Read more.
Background: severe carotid artery stenosis is a major cause of ischemic stroke and consequent neurological deficits. The most important steps of atherosclerotic plaque development, leading to carotid stenosis, are well-known; however, their exact timeline and intricate causal relationships need to be more characterized. Methods: in a cohort of 119 patients, who underwent carotid endarterectomy, we studied the histological correlations between arterial calcification patterns and localization, the presence of the inflammatory infiltrate and osteopontin expression, with ulceration, thrombosis, and intra-plaque hemorrhage, as direct signs of vulnerability. Results: in patients with an inflammatory infiltrate, aphasia was more prevalent, and microcalcification, superficial calcification, and high-grade osteopontin expression were characteristic. Higher osteopontin expression was also correlated with the presence of a lipid core. Inflammation and microcalcification were significantly associated with plaque ulceration in logistic regression models; furthermore, ulceration and the inflammatory infiltrate were significant determinants of atherothrombosis. Conclusion: our results bring histological evidence for the critically important role of microcalcification and inflammatory cell invasion in the formation and destabilization of advanced carotid plaques. In addition, as a calcification organizer, high-grade osteopontin expression is associated with ulceration, the presence of a large lipid core, and may also have an intrinsic role in plaque progression. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

22 pages, 1142 KiB  
Review
The Perspectives of Platelet Proteomics in Health and Disease
by Preeti Kumari Chaudhary, Sachin Upadhayaya, Sanggu Kim and Soochong Kim
Biomedicines 2024, 12(3), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12030585 - 06 Mar 2024
Viewed by 714
Abstract
Cardiovascular thromboembolic diseases and cancer continue to be a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Therefore, it is crucial to advance their diagnoses and treatment in the context of individualized medicine. However, the disease specificity of the currently available markers is limited. [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular thromboembolic diseases and cancer continue to be a leading cause of death and disability worldwide. Therefore, it is crucial to advance their diagnoses and treatment in the context of individualized medicine. However, the disease specificity of the currently available markers is limited. Based on analyses of a subset of peptides and matching proteins in disease vs. healthy platelets, scientists have recently shown that focused platelet proteomics enables the quantification of disease-specific biomarkers in humans. In this review, we explored the potential of accurate platelet proteomic research, which is required to identify novel diagnostic and pharmaceutical targets by comprehending the proteome variety of healthy individuals and patients for personalized and precision medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 271 KiB  
Review
New Approaches to the Management of Cardiovascular Risk Associated with Sleep Respiratory Disorders in Pediatric Patients
by Esther Solano-Pérez, Carlota Coso, Sofía Romero-Peralta, María Castillo-García, Sonia López-Monzoni, Alfonso Ortigado and Olga Mediano
Biomedicines 2024, 12(2), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines12020411 - 09 Feb 2024
Viewed by 666
Abstract
Exposure to risk factors in youth can exacerbate the development of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by repetitive episodes of airway obstructions, could trigger said CVD acting as a modifiable risk factor. Measurements from echocardiography have shown impairments in [...] Read more.
Exposure to risk factors in youth can exacerbate the development of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by repetitive episodes of airway obstructions, could trigger said CVD acting as a modifiable risk factor. Measurements from echocardiography have shown impairments in the anatomy and function of the heart related to the severity of OSA. Therefore, the aim of this review was to propose a new clinical approach to the management of cardiovascular risk (CVR) in children based on treating OSA. The review includes studies assessing echocardiographic parameters for cardiac function and structure in pediatric OSA diagnosed using the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 1/h using polysomnography (PSG) and conducted within a year. Based on the reviewed evidence, in addition to PSG, echocardiography should be considered in OSA children in order to indicate the need for treatment and to reduce their future CVR. A follow-up echocardiography after treatment could be performed if impairments in the anatomy and function were found. Prioritizing parameters intimately connected to comorbidity could propel more effective patient-centered care. In conclusion, a reevaluation of pediatric OSA strategies should be considered, emphasizing comorbidity-related parameters in the cardiovascular field. Further studies are needed to assess this approach, potentially leading to enhanced protocols for more effective pediatric OSA treatment and CVR prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
16 pages, 3505 KiB  
Review
TAVI in a Heart Transplant Recipient—Rare Case Report and Review of the Literature
by Silvia Preda, Lucian Câlmâc, Claudia Nica, Mihai Cacoveanu, Robert Țigănașu, Aida Badea, Alexandru Zăman, Raluca Ciomag (Ianula), Claudiu Nistor, Bogdan Severus Gașpar, Luminița Iliuță, Lucian Dorobanțu, Vlad Anton Iliescu and Horațiu Moldovan
Biomedicines 2023, 11(10), 2634; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11102634 - 26 Sep 2023
Viewed by 787
Abstract
The global demand for cardiac transplants continues to rise, even with advancements in assistive devices. Currently, the estimated annual mortality rate stands at 3–5%, and patients often face a waiting time of approximately four years on transplant waiting lists. Consequently, many transplant centers [...] Read more.
The global demand for cardiac transplants continues to rise, even with advancements in assistive devices. Currently, the estimated annual mortality rate stands at 3–5%, and patients often face a waiting time of approximately four years on transplant waiting lists. Consequently, many transplant centers have started to consider heart transplants from donors who may be deemed “less than ideal” or marginal. However, the decision to accept such donors must be highly individualized, taking into consideration the risks associated with remaining on the waiting list versus those posed by the transplantation procedure itself. A potential solution lies in the creation of two distinct recipient lists, matched with donor criteria, allowing marginal donors to provide the lifeline that selected patients require. This paper follows a two-step approach. Firstly, it offers an overview of the current state of affairs regarding the topic of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in orthotopic heart transplant (OHT) patients. Secondly, it presents firsthand experience from our clinical center with a comprehensive case presentation of a patient in this unique medical context. The clinical case refers to a 62-year-old male patient, a smoker with a history of hypertension, dyslipidemia, and a prior OHT a decade earlier, who presented with fatigue during minimal physical exertion. The Heart Team carefully reviewed the case, considering the patient’s immunosuppressed status and the heightened risk associated with a repeat intervention. In this instance, transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) was deemed the appropriate treatment. The TAVI procedure yielded successful results, leading to improved clinical status and enhanced cardiac function. The inclusion of marginal donors has introduced novel challenges related to the utilization of previously diseased marginal organs. TAVI has already demonstrated its efficacy and versatility in treating high-risk patients, including heart transplant recipients. Consequently, it emerges as a vital tool in addressing the unique challenges posed by the inclusion of marginal donors. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 4141 KiB  
Review
Non-Conventional Risk Factors: “Fact” or “Fake” in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention?
by Giovanni Cimmino, Francesco Natale, Roberta Alfieri, Luigi Cante, Simona Covino, Rosa Franzese, Mirella Limatola, Luigi Marotta, Riccardo Molinari, Noemi Mollo, Francesco S Loffredo and Paolo Golino
Biomedicines 2023, 11(9), 2353; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11092353 - 23 Aug 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1903
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as arterial hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, etc., still represent the main cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. They significantly modify the patients’ quality of life with a tremendous economic impact. It is well established that [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as arterial hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, etc., still represent the main cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. They significantly modify the patients’ quality of life with a tremendous economic impact. It is well established that cardiovascular risk factors increase the probability of fatal and non-fatal cardiac events. These risk factors are classified into modifiable (smoking, arterial hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, low HDL cholesterol, diabetes, excessive alcohol consumption, high-fat and high-calorie diet, reduced physical activity) and non-modifiable (sex, age, family history, of previous cardiovascular disease). Hence, CVD prevention is based on early identification and management of modifiable risk factors whose impact on the CV outcome is now performed by the use of CV risk assessment models, such as the Framingham Risk Score, Pooled Cohort Equations, or the SCORE2. However, in recent years, emerging, non-traditional factors (metabolic and non-metabolic) seem to significantly affect this assessment. In this article, we aim at defining these emerging factors and describe the potential mechanisms by which they might contribute to the development of CVD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3269 KiB  
Review
Cardiovascular Diseases: Therapeutic Potential of SGLT-2 Inhibitors
by Weronika Frąk, Joanna Hajdys, Ewa Radzioch, Magdalena Szlagor, Ewelina Młynarska, Jacek Rysz and Beata Franczyk
Biomedicines 2023, 11(7), 2085; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11072085 - 24 Jul 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3095
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a global health concern, affecting millions of patients worldwide and being the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, thus creating a major public health concern. Sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have emerged as a promising class of medications [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are a global health concern, affecting millions of patients worldwide and being the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality, thus creating a major public health concern. Sodium/glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have emerged as a promising class of medications for managing CVD. Initially developed as antihyperglycemic agents for treating type 2 diabetes, these drugs have demonstrated significant cardiovascular benefits beyond glycemic control. In our paper, we discuss the role of empagliflozin, dapagliflozin, canagliflozin, ertugliflozin, and the relatively recently approved bexagliflozin, the class of SGLT-2 inhibitors, as potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases. All mentioned SGLT-2 inhibitors have demonstrated significant cardiovascular benefits and renal protection in clinical trials, in patients with or without type 2 diabetes. These novel therapeutic approaches aim to develop more effective treatments that improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of these conditions. However, the major scientific achievements of recent years and the many new discoveries and mechanisms still require careful attention and additional studies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1170 KiB  
Review
Cardiovascular Remodeling Post-Ischemia: Herbs, Diet, and Drug Interventions
by Ayodeji A. Olabiyi and Lisandra E. de Castro Brás
Biomedicines 2023, 11(6), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11061697 - 13 Jun 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1658
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a serious health burden with increasing prevalence, and CVD continues to be the principal global source of illness and mortality. For several disorders, including CVD, the use of dietary and medicinal herbs instead of pharmaceutical drugs continues to be [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a serious health burden with increasing prevalence, and CVD continues to be the principal global source of illness and mortality. For several disorders, including CVD, the use of dietary and medicinal herbs instead of pharmaceutical drugs continues to be an alternate therapy strategy. Despite the prevalent use of synthetic pharmaceutical medications, there is currently an unprecedented push for the use of diet and herbal preparations in contemporary medical systems. This urge is fueled by a number of factors, the two most important being the common perception that they are safe and more cost-effective than modern pharmaceutical medicines. However, there is a lack of research focused on novel treatment targets that combine all these strategies—pharmaceuticals, diet, and herbs. In this review, we looked at the reported effects of pharmaceutical drugs and diet, as well as medicinal herbs, and propose a combination of these approaches to target independent pathways that could synergistically be efficacious in treating cardiovascular disease. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 975 KiB  
Review
Evidence and Uncertainties on Lipoprotein(a) as a Marker of Cardiovascular Health Risk in Children and Adolescents
by Simonetta Genovesi, Marco Giussani, Giulia Lieti, Antonina Orlando, Ilenia Patti and Gianfranco Parati
Biomedicines 2023, 11(6), 1661; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11061661 - 08 Jun 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1404
Abstract
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is made up of apoprotein(a) (apo(a)) and an LDL-like particle. The LPA gene encodes apo(a) and thus determines the characteristics and amount of apo(a) and Lp(a). The proportion of Lp(a) in each individual is genetically determined and is only minimally modifiable [...] Read more.
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is made up of apoprotein(a) (apo(a)) and an LDL-like particle. The LPA gene encodes apo(a) and thus determines the characteristics and amount of apo(a) and Lp(a). The proportion of Lp(a) in each individual is genetically determined and is only minimally modifiable by the environment or diet. Lp(a) has important pro-atherosclerotic and pro-inflammatory effects. It has been hypothesized that Lp(a) also has pro-coagulant and antifibrinolytic actions. For these reasons, high Lp(a) values are an important independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and calcific aortic valve stenosis. Numerous studies have been performed in adults about the pathophysiology and epidemiology of Lp(a) and research is under way for the development of drugs capable of reducing Lp(a) plasma values. Much less information is available regarding Lp(a) in children and adolescents. The present article reviews the evidence on this topic. The review addresses the issues of Lp(a) changes during growth, the correlation between Lp(a) values in children and those in their parents, and between Lp(a) levels in children, and the presence of cardiovascular disease in the family. Gaining information on these points is particularly important for deciding whether Lp(a) assay may be useful for defining the cardiovascular risk in children, in order to plan a prevention program early. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 1308 KiB  
Review
Biomarkers of Atrial Fibrillation Recurrence in Patients with Paroxysmal or Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Following External Direct Current Electrical Cardioversion
by Ozan Demirel, Alexander E. Berezin, Moritz Mirna, Elke Boxhammer, Sarah X. Gharibeh, Uta C. Hoppe and Michael Lichtenauer
Biomedicines 2023, 11(5), 1452; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11051452 - 16 May 2023
Viewed by 1879
Abstract
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with atrial remodeling, cardiac dysfunction, and poor clinical outcomes. External direct current electrical cardioversion is a well-developed urgent treatment strategy for patients presenting with recent-onset AF. However, there is a lack of accurate predictive serum biomarkers to identify [...] Read more.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is associated with atrial remodeling, cardiac dysfunction, and poor clinical outcomes. External direct current electrical cardioversion is a well-developed urgent treatment strategy for patients presenting with recent-onset AF. However, there is a lack of accurate predictive serum biomarkers to identify the risks of AF relapse after electrical cardioversion. We reviewed the currently available data and interpreted the findings of several studies revealing biomarkers for crucial elements in the pathogenesis of AF and affecting cardiac remodeling, fibrosis, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, adipose tissue dysfunction, myopathy, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Although there is ample strong evidence that elevated levels of numerous biomarkers (such as natriuretic peptides, C-reactive protein, galectin-3, soluble suppressor tumorigenicity-2, fibroblast growth factor-23, turn-over collagen biomarkers, growth differential factor-15) are associated with AF occurrence, the data obtained in clinical studies seem to be controversial in terms of their predictive ability for post-cardioversion outcomes. Novel circulating biomarkers are needed to elucidate the modality of this approach compared with conventional predictive tools. Conclusions: Biomarker-based strategies for predicting events after AF treatment require extensive investigation in the future, especially in the presence of different gender and variable comorbidity profiles. Perhaps, a multiple biomarker approach exerts more utilization for patients with different forms of AF than single biomarker use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 491 KiB  
Review
Thyroid Hormone and Heart Failure: Charting Known Pathways for Cardiac Repair/Regeneration
by Polyxeni Mantzouratou, Eleftheria Malaxianaki, Domenico Cerullo, Angelo Michele Lavecchia, Constantinos Pantos, Christodoulos Xinaris and Iordanis Mourouzis
Biomedicines 2023, 11(3), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11030975 - 21 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2323
Abstract
Heart failure affects more than 64 million people worldwide, having a serious impact on their survival and quality of life. Exploring its pathophysiology and molecular bases is an urgent need in order to develop new therapeutic approaches. Thyroid hormone signaling, evolutionarily conserved, controls [...] Read more.
Heart failure affects more than 64 million people worldwide, having a serious impact on their survival and quality of life. Exploring its pathophysiology and molecular bases is an urgent need in order to develop new therapeutic approaches. Thyroid hormone signaling, evolutionarily conserved, controls fundamental biological processes and has a crucial role in development and metabolism. Its active form is L-triiodothyronine, which not only regulates important gene expression by binding to its nuclear receptors, but also has nongenomic actions, controlling crucial intracellular signalings. Stressful stimuli, such as acute myocardial infarction, lead to changes in thyroid hormone signaling, and especially in the relation of the thyroid hormone and its nuclear receptor, which are associated with the reactivation of fetal development programmes, with structural remodeling and phenotypical changes in the cardiomyocytes. The recapitulation of fetal-like features of the signaling may be partially an incomplete effort of the myocardium to recapitulate its developmental program and enable cardiomyocytes to proliferate and finally to regenerate. In this review, we will discuss the experimental and clinical evidence about the role of the thyroid hormone in the recovery of the myocardium in the setting of heart failure with reduced and preserved ejection fraction and its future therapeutic implications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

8 pages, 262 KiB  
Brief Report
Impact of Previous Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Use on Noninvasive Ventilation Adherence and Quality in Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome: A Pragmatic Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study in Martinique
by Moustapha Agossou, Bérénice Awanou, Jocelyn Inamo, Mickael Rejaudry-Lacavalerie, Jean-Michel Arnal and Moustapha Dramé
Biomedicines 2023, 11(10), 2753; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines11102753 - 11 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 738
Abstract
There is a strong relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). When OHS is combined with severe OSA, treatment consists of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), followed by noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in the case of CPAP failure. Currently, the [...] Read more.
There is a strong relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). When OHS is combined with severe OSA, treatment consists of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), followed by noninvasive ventilation (NIV) in the case of CPAP failure. Currently, the impact of a previous use of CPAP on the quality of NIV is unknown. We conducted a cross-sectional study with OHS patients, to assess the quality of NIV according to previous CPAP use. We included 75 patients with OHS on NIV (65 women, 87%). Among these, 40 patients (53.3%) who had had prior CPAP (CPAP+ group) were compared to the remaining 35 patients (46.7%) (CPAP− group). Key characteristics were comparable between the CPAP+ and the CPAP− groups: age at diagnosis of OHS was 67 ± 3 vs. 66 ± 4 years (p = 0.8), age at inclusion was 73 ± 15 vs. 69 ± 15 years (p = 0.29), number of comorbidities was 3.7 ± 1.2 vs. 3.3 ± 1.5, the Charlson index was 5.1 ± 2 vs. 4.6 ± 1.8, and BMI was 41.6 ± 7.6 kg/m2 vs. 41.2 ± 8.2, respectively, all p > 0.05. Follow-up length was greater in CPAP+ vs. CPAP− patients (5.6 ± 4.2 vs. 2.9 ± 2.9 years, p = 0.001). The quality of NIV based on daily adherence, pressure support, apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) and leaks was similar in both groups. Reduced adherence (less than 4 h daily) was found in 10 CPAP+ patients (25%) versus 7 CPAP− patients (20%), p = 0.80. NIV efficacy was also similar. This study found no difference in the quality of NIV or in adherence between patients who had had prior CPAP and those who had not. Previous CPAP does not appear to improve the quality of NIV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease: New Treatment and Future Directions 2.0)
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-20
Back to TopTop