Effects of an angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor, ramipril, on cardiovascular events in high-risk patients

Disparities in Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcomes of Peripheral Artery Disease: JACC Scientific Statement

Disparities by sex, race, socioeconomic status, and geography exist in diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes for people with lower extremity peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD prevalence is similar in men and women, but women have more atypical symptoms and undergo lower extremity revascularization at older ages compared to men. People who are Black have an approximately 2-fold higher prevalence of PAD, compared to people who are White and have more atypical symptoms, greater mobility loss, less optimal medical care, and higher amputation rates. Although fewer data are available for other races, people with PAD who are Hispanic have higher amputation rates than White people. Rates of amputation also vary by geography in the United States, with the highest rates of amputation in the southeastern United States. To improve PAD outcomes, intentional actions to eliminate disparities are necessary, including clinician education, patient education with culturally appropriate messaging, improved access to high-quality health care, science focused on disparity elimination, and health policy changes.

Advances in the management of chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) represents a global public health crisis, but awareness by patients and providers is poor. Defined as persistent abnormalities in kidney structure or function for more than three months, manifested as either low glomerular filtration rate or presence of a marker of kidney damage such as albuminuria, CKD can be identified through readily available blood and urine tests. Early recognition of CKD is crucial for harnessing major advances in staging, prognosis, and treatment. This review discusses the evidence behind the general principles of CKD management, such as blood pressure and glucose control, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade, statin therapy, and dietary management. It additionally describes individualized approaches to treatment based on risk of kidney failure and cause of CKD. Finally, it reviews novel classes of kidney protective agents including sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors, glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, non-steroidal selective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, and endothelin receptor antagonists. Appropriate, widespread implementation of these highly effective therapies should improve the lives of people with CKD and decrease the worldwide incidence of kidney failure.

Age and the Residual Risk of Cardiovascular Disease following Low Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol Exposure

We believe that there is sufficient evidence from basic science, longitudinal cohort studies and randomised controlled trials which validates the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) or lipid hypothesis. It is important that we can communicate details of the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk reduction that the average patient could expect depending on the scale of LDL-C decrease following lipid lowering therapy. It is also essential that residual risk (ResR) of CVD be highlighted. To achieve this aim by using existing trial evidence, we developed mathematical models initially for relative risk reduction (RRR) and absolute risk (AR) reduction and then showed that despite optimising LDL-C levels, a considerable degree of ResR remains that is dependent on AR. Age is significantly associated with AR (odds ratio: 1.02, 95% confidence intervals: 1.01-1.04) as was previously demonstrated by analysing the Whickham study cohort using a logistic regression model (age remaining significant even when all the other significant risk factors such as sex, smoking, systolic blood pressure, diabetes and family history were included in the regression model). A discussion of a paper by Ference et al. provided detailed evidence of the relationship between age and AR, based on lifetime LDL-C exposure. Finally, we discussed non-traditional CVD risk factors that may contribute to ResR based on randomised controlled trials investigating drugs improving inflammation, thrombosis, metabolic and endothelial status.

Role of advanced glycation end products in diabetic vascular injury: molecular mechanisms and therapeutic perspectives

BACKGROUND

In diabetic metabolic disorders, advanced glycation end products (AGEs) contribute significantly to the development of cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

AIMS

This comprehensive review aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying AGE-mediated vascular injury.

CONCLUSIONS

We discuss the formation and accumulation of AGEs, their interactions with cellular receptors, and the subsequent activation of signaling pathways leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, smooth muscle cell proliferation, extracellular matrix remodeling, and impaired angiogenesis. Moreover, we explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting AGEs and related pathways for CVD prevention and treatment in diabetic metabolic disorders. Finally, we address current challenges and future directions in the field, emphasizing the importance of understanding the molecular links between AGEs and vascular injury to improve patient outcomes.

Associations between maternal chronic diseases and congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract in offspring: a population-based cohort study

Background

The relationship between maternal chronic diseases and congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract (CAKUT) in offspring still needs elucidation. This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the associations between maternal chronic disease and CAKUT in their offspring.

Methods

Data of mothers and children were extracted from the Taiwan Maternal and Child Health Database and National Health Insurance Research Database. The concept of developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) was used to select maternal chronic diseases.

Results

The study cohort included 1 196 175 mothers and 1 628 706 offspring. Analysis showed that maternal chronic diseases, especially type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, connective tissue disorders and CAKUT were highly associated with CAKUT in the offspring. Higher maternal age, abnormal birthweight (>3500 g or <2500 g), gestational age <36 weeks and birth order <2 were all associated with a higher risk of CAKUT. Maternal chronic hypertension and taking angiotensin-related drugs increased the odds ratios of obstructive kidney disease in the offspring. Offspring tended to have the same type of CAKUT as their mothers.

Conclusion

Maternal chronic diseases, older maternal age and abnormal birthweight are risk factors for CAKUT. Also, a percentage of patients with CAKUT were not full-term newborns. Results support prenatal counselling and health management of pregnant women with chronic diseases and extra care for infants with a high risk of anomalies. It is strongly recommended that prevention of CAKUT in offspring should start with care of the mothers' prenatal chronic diseases.

Circadian Disruption and the Molecular Clock in Atherosclerosis and Hypertension

Circadian rhythms are crucial for maintaining vascular function and disruption of these rhythms are associated with negative health outcomes including cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Circadian rhythms are regulated by the central clock within the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus and peripheral clocks located in nearly every cell type in the body, including cells within the heart and vasculature. In this review, we summarize the most recent preclinical and clinical research linking circadian disruption, with a focus on molecular circadian clock mechanisms, in atherosclerosis and hypertension. Furthermore, we provide insight into potential future chronotherapeutics for hypertension and vascular disease. A better understanding of the influence of daily rhythms in behaviour, such as sleep/wake cycles, feeding, and physical activity, as well as the endogenous circadian system on cardiovascular risk will help pave the way for targeted approaches in atherosclerosis and hypertension treatment/prevention.

Sex Differences in Pharmacotherapy and Long-Term Outcomes in Patients With Ischaemic Heart Disease and Comorbid Left Ventricular Dysfunction

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular (LV) dysfunction and ischaemic heart disease (IHD) are common among women. However, women tend to present later and are less likely to receive guideline-directed medical therapy (GDMT) compared with men.

METHODS

We analysed prospectively collected data (2005-2018) from a multicentre registry on GDMT 30 days after percutaneous coronary intervention in 13,015 patients with LV ejection fraction <50%. Guideline-directed medical therapy was defined as beta blocker, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker±mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. Long-term mortality was determined by linkage with the Australian National Death Index.

RESULTS

Women represented 20% (2,634) of the total cohort. Mean age was 65±12 years. Women were on average >5 years, with higher body mass index and higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, renal dysfunction, prior stroke, and rheumatoid arthritis. Guideline-directed medical therapy was similar between sexes (73% vs 72%; p=0.58), although women were less likely to be on an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker (80% vs 82%; p=0.02). Women were less likely to be on statin therapy (p<0.001) or a second antiplatelet agent (p=0.007). Women had higher unadjusted long-term mortality (25% vs 19%; p<0.001); however, there were no differences in long-term mortality between sexes on adjusted analysis (hazard ratio 0.99; 95% confidence interval 0.87-1.14; p=0.94).

CONCLUSIONS

Rates of GDMT for LV dysfunction were high and similar between sexes; however, women were less likely to be on appropriate IHD secondary prevention. The increased unadjusted long-term mortality in women was attenuated in adjusted analysis, which highlights the need for optimisation of baseline risk to improve long-term outcomes of women with IHD and comorbid LV dysfunction.

Cost-effectiveness of drug treatment for young and middle-aged stage 1 hypertensive patients with high risk

Background

Drug treatment was recommended for stage 1 hypertensive patients (blood pressure of 130-139 / 80-89 millimetres of mercury (mmHg)) with high cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in the 2017 Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines, 2018 Chinese guidelines and 2021 World Health Organization guidelines, but not in other guidelines. However, evidence on the cost-effectiveness of drug treatment among young and middle-aged patients remains scarce. This study aimed to compare the cost-effectiveness of drug treatment vs. non-drug treatment for stage 1 hypertensive patients aged <60 years with high CVD risk.

Methods

A microsimulation model projected quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), health care costs, and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios for drug treatment from a societal perspective. Transition probabilities were estimated from the Kailuan study with a sample size of 34 093 patients aged <60 years with high CVD risk. Costs and health utilities were obtained from the Kailuan study, national statistics reports and published literature.

Results

Over a 15-year time horizon, the model predicted that drug treatment generated QALY of 9.36 and was associated with expected costs of 3735 US dollars ($) compared with 9.07 and $3923 produced by non-drug treatment among stage 1 hypertensive patients, resulting in a cost-saving for drug treatment. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of $10439/QALY (one gross domestic product (GDP) per capita in 2020), drug treatment had a 99.99% probability of being cost-effective for 10 000 samples of probabilistic sensitivity analysis. Sensitivity analyses by different values of transition probability, cost, utility and discount rate did not appreciably change the results. Shortening the time horizon to the average follow-up period of eight years resulted in ICER of $189/QALY for drug treatment (<1 × GDP/QALY).

Conclusions

Our results suggested that drug treatment was a dominant strategy for stage 1 hypertensive patients aged <60 years with high CVD risk in China, which may provide evidence for policymakers and clinicians when weighing the pros and cons of drug treatment for young and middle-aged stage 1 hypertensive patients.

[Sartans in the treatment of arterial hypertension: focus on telmisartan and azilsartan. A review]

The activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is one of the main pathogenetic mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases at all stages of the cardiovascular continuum. This article discusses the role of telmisartan and azilsartan as the most powerful sartans in modern cardiology. Azilsartan and especially telmisartan have a significant organoprotection and are superior to other antihypertensive drugs in terms of lowering blood pressure. However, the effect of azilsartan on hard endpoints has not been studied while the efficacy of telmisartan on hard endpoints has been evaluated in plenty clinical trials including 3 large randomized clinical trials with several thousand patients. The article also presents calculations showing the better cost-effectiveness of telmisartan compared to azilsartan.

The Pivotal Role of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors and Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers in Hypertension Management and Cardiovascular and Renal Protection: A Critical Appraisal and Comparison of International Guidelines

Arterial hypertension is the main preventable cause of premature mortality worldwide. Across Latin America, hypertension has an estimated prevalence of 25.5-52.5%, although many hypertensive patients remain untreated. Appropriate treatment, started early and continued for the remaining lifespan, significantly reduces the risk of complications and mortality. All international and most regional guidelines emphasize a central role for renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASis) in antihypertensive treatment. The two main RAASi options are angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). Although equivalent in terms of blood pressure reduction, ACEis are preferably recommended by some guidelines to manage other cardiovascular comorbidities, with ARBs considered as an alternative when ACEis are not tolerated. This review summarizes the differences between ACEis and ARBs and their place in the international guidelines. It provides a critical appraisal of the guidelines based on available evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, especially considering that hypertensive patients in daily practice often have other comorbidities. The observed differences in cardiovascular and renal outcomes in RCTs may be attributed to the different mechanisms of action of ACEis and ARBs, including increased bradykinin levels, potentiated bradykinin response, and stimulated nitric oxide production with ACEis. It may therefore be appropriate to consider ACEis and ARBs as different antihypertensive drugs classes within the same RAASi group. Although guideline recommendations only differentiate between ACEis and ARBs in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities, clinical evidence suggests that ACEis provide benefits in many hypertensive patients, as well as those with other cardiovascular conditions.

Association between renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade and clinical outcomes in patients with hypertension: real-world observation from a nationwide hypertension cohort

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the association between the use of ACEi, ARB, or non-renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (non-RASi) and incident cardiovascular events in an unselected nationwide hypertension cohort.

METHODS

The information regarding 2,025,849 patients who underwent general health checkup between 2010 and 2011 and were on antihypertensive medication was collected. Patients were allocated into ACEi, ARB, and non-RASi groups and followed until 2019. The outcomes of interest were myocardial infarction (MI), ischemic stroke (IS), atrial fibrillation (AF), heart failure (HF), and all-cause deaths.

RESULTS

Patients on ACEi and ARB showed unfavorable baseline characteristics compared to those on non-RASi. After adjusting for covariates, the ACEi group showed lower risks of MI, AF, and all-cause deaths (HR (95% CI): 0.94 (0.89-0.99), 0.96 (0.92-1.00), and 0.93 (0.90-0.96), respectively), but similar risks of IS and HF (0.97 (0.92-1.01) and 1.03 (1.00-1.06), respectively), compared to the non-RASi group. Likewise, the ARB group showed decreased risks of MI, IS, AF, HF, and all-cause deaths (HR (95% CI): 0.93 (0.91-0.95), 0.88 (0.86-0.90), 0.86 (0.85-0.88), 0.94 (0.93-0.96), and 0.84 (0.83-0.85)), compared to the non-RASi group. Sensitivity analysis of patients taking a single antihypertensive medication showed similar results. In the propensity score matching (PSM) cohort, the ARB group showed similar risks of MI and decreased risks of IS, AF, HF, and all-cause deaths compared to the ACEi group.

CONCLUSIONS

ACEi and ARB users were associated with decreased risks of MI, IS, AF, HF, and all-cause deaths, compared to non-RASi users.

Sex and Racial Disparities in Peripheral Artery Disease

Several studies have shown that women and racial and ethnic minority patients are at increased risk of developing lower extremity peripheral artery disease and suffering adverse outcomes from it, but a knowledge gap remains regarding the underlying causes of these increased risks. Both groups are more likely to be underdiagnosed, have poorly managed contributory comorbidities, and incur disparities in treatment and management postdiagnosis. Opportunities for improvement in the care of women and racial and ethnic minorities with peripheral artery disease include increased rates of screening, higher rates of clinical suspicion (particularly in the absence of typical symptoms of intermittent claudication), and more aggressive risk factor management before and after the diagnosis of peripheral artery disease.

Current challenges in the treatment of cardiac fibrosis: Recent insights into the sex-specific differences of glucose-lowering therapies on the diabetic heart: IUPHAR Review 33

A significant cardiac complication of diabetes is cardiomyopathy, a form of ventricular dysfunction that develops independently of coronary artery disease, hypertension and valvular diseases, which may subsequently lead to heart failure. Several structural features underlie the development of diabetic cardiomyopathy and eventual diabetes-induced heart failure. Pathological cardiac fibrosis (interstitial and perivascular), in addition to capillary rarefaction and myocardial apoptosis, are particularly noteworthy. Sex differences in the incidence, development and presentation of diabetes, heart failure and interstitial myocardial fibrosis have been identified. Nevertheless, therapeutics specifically targeting diabetes-associated cardiac fibrosis remain lacking and treatment approaches remain the same regardless of patient sex or the co-morbidities that patients may present. This review addresses the observed anti-fibrotic effects of newer glucose-lowering therapies and traditional cardiovascular disease treatments, in the diabetic myocardium (from both preclinical and clinical contexts). Furthermore, any known sex differences in these treatment effects are also explored. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed issue on Translational Advances in Fibrosis as a Therapeutic Target. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.22/issuetoc.

[Does aspirin have a place in primary cardiovascular prevention by the polypill ? Simulation study on a realistic virtual population]

BACKGROUND

The polypill strategy could become widely accepted in cardiovascular prevention due to reduced costs and its simplicity, which promote compliance. Aspirin is often included as a component of the polypill for primary prevention, but three powerful recent trials failed to show any favorable net benefit even in high-risk subgroups. Our objective is to estimate the net benefit associated with aspirin in primary cardiovascular prevention.

METHODS

We simulated the impact of different polypill compositions combining pravastatin, ramipril, hydrochlorothiazide, with or without aspirin, on a realistic French virtual population between 35 and 65 years old. We assessed how this impact on myocardial infarction and stroke varied according to gender, diabetes, and arterial hypertension. We identified the subgroup of individuals whose specific benefit from aspirin was greater than twice the risk of serious bleeding it induced.

RESULTS

The absolute benefit associated with aspirin was reduced by co-prescriptions. No subgroup of women benefited from aspirin, and the subgroup of women with a clear net benefit represented 128 women out of 529,421. Men at high risk of cardiovascular death, or with diabetes and hypertension, had a benefit from aspirin exceeding the risk of bleeding induced, but this risk represented more than half of the benefit. No subgroup analyzed did show a benefit greater than twice the risk of bleeding. The proportion of men whose expected benefit from aspirin was greater than twice the risk of bleeding represented 3% of all men. An optimal polypill strategy in primary prevention between the ages of 35 and 65, combining three drugs but not aspirin, can hope to save two out of three strokes and more than one out of two myocardial infarctions. It would prevent a major cardiovascular accident every 16 to 193 individuals treated according to the subgroups considered.

CONCLUSION

Until proven otherwise, aspirin has only a limited place in individuals between 35 and 65 years without a cardiovascular history. We showed how simulating therapeutic strategies on a realistic virtual population could be used for best applying available evidence.

Angiotensin receptor blockers, but not angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, inhibit abnormal bone changes in spondyloarthritis

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that results in bone ankylosis. The tissue renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is an emerging pathway potentially implicated in SpA-associated bone changes. The aim of the present study was to determine the mechanisms underlying this relationship. Sakaguchi (SKG) mice injected with curdlan (SKGc), animal models for SpA, were treated with RAS modulators, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEis). Disease activity was assessed using clinical scores and computed tomography scans. Mouse primary bone marrow monocytes (BMMs), osteoblast (OB) progenitor cells, peripheral blood monocytes (PBMCs), and bone-derived cells (BdCs) from patients with radiographic axial SpA (r-axSpA) were used to investigate the role of RAS in SpA pathogenesis. The expression of RAS components was significantly increased in SKGc mouse joints, and ARBs significantly reduced erosion and systemic bone loss, whereas ACEis did not. Osteoclast (OC) differentiation from primary BMMs, mediated by TRAF6, was inhibited by ARBs but promoted by ACEis; the modulators also exerted opposite effects on OB differentiation. Expression of RAS molecules was higher in PBMCs and BdCs of patients with r-axSpA than in control participants. ARBs inhibited OB differentiation in the BdCs of patients with r-axSpA, whereas ACEis did not. Neither ARBs nor ACEis affected OB differentiation in the control participants. In SpA, a condition characterized by RAS overexpression, ARBs, but not ACEis, inhibited OC and OB differentiation and bone progression. The findings should be taken into account when treating patients with SpA using RAS modulators.

Blood pressure control and antihypertensive medication use after discharge and prognosis of ischemic stroke

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of consistently blood pressure (BP) control status after discharge on adverse clinical outcomes among ischemic stroke (IS) patients.

METHODS

Three thousand, four hundred and six acute IS patients were included and followed up at 3 months, 12 months, and 24 months after stroke. Study outcomes were defined as death, vascular events and composite of death or vascular events. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confident interval (CI) of death and the composite outcome of death or vascular events associated with BP control and antihypertensive medication use.

RESULTS

The multivariable adjusted HRs were 0.22 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.09-0.57] for death and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.39-0.97) for the composite outcome of death or vascular events among participants with consistently controlled BP compared with those with consistently uncontrolled BP. The participants with both consistently controlled BP and regular use of antihypertensive medication had the lowest risks of death [hazard ratio (HR): 0.18, 95% CI: 0.04-0.75] and composite outcome of death or vascular events (HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.29-0.98) in comparison with those with both uncontrolled BP and irregular use of antihypertensive medication.

DISCUSSION

Continuous BP control and regular use of antihypertensive medications after discharge can decrease the risks of death and composite outcome of death or vascular events among IS patients, suggesting the importance of continuous BP control and regular use of antihypertensive medications after discharge for improving prognosis of IS.

Diurnal Variations in Serum Uric Acid, Xanthine, and Xanthine Oxidoreductase Activity in Male Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

Hyperuricemia is influenced by diet and can cause gout. Whether it is a potential risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains controversial, and the mechanism is unclear. Similar to CVDs, gout attacks occur more frequently in the morning and at night. A possible reason for this is the diurnal variation in uric acid (UA), However, scientific data regarding this variation in patients with CVD are not available. Thus, we aimed to investigate diurnal variations in serum levels of UA and plasma levels of xanthine, hypoxanthine, and xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) activity, which were measured at 18:00, 6:00, and 12:00 in male patients with coronary artery disease. Thirty eligible patients participated in the study. UA and xanthine levels significantly increased from 18:00 to 6:00 but significantly decreased from 6:00 to 12:00. By contrast, XOR activity significantly increased both from 18:00 to 6:00 and 6:00 to 12:00. Furthermore, the rates of increase in UA and xanthine levels from night to morning were significantly and positively correlated. In conclusion, UA and xanthine showed similar diurnal variations, whereas XOR activity showed different diurnal variations. The morning UA surge could be due to UA production. The mechanism involved XOR activity, but other factors were also considered.

Effects of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system inhibitors on coronary atherosclerotic plaques: The PARADIGM registry

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Inhibition of Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone-System (RAAS) has been hypothesized to improve endothelial function and reduce plaque inflammation, however, their impact on the progression of coronary atherosclerosis is unclear. We aim to study the effects of RAAS inhibitor on plaque progression and composition assessed by serial coronary CT angiography (CCTA).

METHODS

We performed a prospective, multinational study consisting of a registry of patients without history of CAD, who underwent serial CCTAs. Patients using RAAS inhibitors were propensity matched to RAAS inhibitor naïve patients based on clinical and CCTA characteristics at baseline. Atherosclerotic plaques in CCTAs were quantitatively analyzed for percent atheroma volume (PAV) according to plaque composition. Interactions between RAAS inhibitor use and baseline PAV on plaque progression were assessed in the unmatched cohort using a multivariate linear regression model.

RESULTS

Of 1248 patients from the registry, 299 RAAS inhibitor taking patients were matched to 299 RAAS inhibitor naïve patients. Over a mean interval of 3.9 years, there was no significant difference in annual progression of total PAV between RAAS inhibitor naïve vs taking patients (0.75 vs 0.79%/year, p = 0.66). With interaction testing in the unmatched cohort, however, RAAS inhibitor use was significantly associated with lower non-calcified plaque progression (Beta coefficient -0.100, adjusted p = 0.038) with higher levels of baseline PAV.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of RAAS inhibitors over a period of nearly 4 years did not significantly impact on total atherosclerotic plaque progression or various plaque components. However, interaction testing to assess the differential effect of RAAS inhibition based on baseline PAV suggested a significant decrease in progression of non-calcified plaque in patients with a higher burden of baseline atherosclerosis, which should be considered hypothesis generating.

Safety and Preliminary Efficacy of Mesenchymal Stromal Cell (ORBCEL-M) Therapy in Diabetic Kidney Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial (NEPHSTROM)

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) may offer a novel therapy for diabetic kidney disease (DKD), although clinical translation of this approach has been limited. The authors present findings from the first, lowest dose cohort of 16 adults with type 2 diabetes and progressive DKD participating in a randomized, placebo-controlled, dose-escalation phase 1b/2a trial of next-generation bone marrow-derived, anti-CD362 antibody-selected allogeneic MSCs (ORBCEL-M). A single intravenous (iv) infusion of 80×10 6 cells was safe and well-tolerated, with one quickly resolved infusion reaction in the placebo group and no subsequent treatment-related serious adverse events (SAEs). Compared with placebo, the median annual rate of decline in eGFR was significantly lower with ORBCEL-M, although mGFR did not differ. The results support further investigation of ORBCEL-M in this patient population in an appropriately sized phase 2b study.

BACKGROUND

Systemic therapy with mesenchymal stromal cells may target maladaptive processes involved in diabetic kidney disease progression. However, clinical translation of this approach has been limited.

METHODS

The Novel Stromal Cell Therapy for Diabetic Kidney Disease (NEPHSTROM) study, a randomized, placebo-controlled phase 1b/2a trial, assesses safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of next-generation bone marrow-derived, anti-CD362-selected, allogeneic mesenchymal stromal cells (ORBCEL-M) in adults with type 2 diabetes and progressive diabetic kidney disease. This first, lowest dose cohort of 16 participants at three European sites was randomized (3:1) to receive intravenous infusion of ORBCEL-M (80×10 6 cells, n =12) or placebo ( n =4) and was followed for 18 months.

RESULTS

At baseline, all participants were negative for anti-HLA antibodies and the measured GFR (mGFR) and estimated GFR were comparable between groups. The intervention was safe and well-tolerated. One placebo-treated participant had a quickly resolved infusion reaction (bronchospasm), with no subsequent treatment-related serious adverse events. Two ORBCEL-M recipients died during follow-up of causes deemed unrelated to the trial intervention; one recipient developed low-level anti-HLA antibodies. The median annual rate of kidney function decline after ORBCEL-M therapy compared with placebo did not differ by mGFR, but was significantly lower by eGFR estimated by the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration and Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equations. Immunologic profiling provided evidence of preservation of circulating regulatory T cells, lower natural killer T cells, and stabilization of inflammatory monocyte subsets in those receiving the cell therapy compared with placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings indicate safety and tolerability of intravenous ORBCEL-M cell therapy in the trial's lowest dose cohort. The rate of decline in eGFR (but not mGFR) over 18 months was significantly lower among those receiving cell therapy compared with placebo. Further studies will be needed to determine the therapy's effect on CKD progression.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ClinicalTrial.gov NCT02585622 .

Renin-angiotensin inhibitors reduce thrombotic complications in Essential Thrombocythemia and Polycythemia Vera patients with arterial hypertension

Essential Thrombocythemia (ET) and Polycythemia Vera (PV) are chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) characterized by thrombotic and hemorrhagic complications, leading to a high risk of disability and mortality. Although arterial hypertension was found to be the most significant modifiable cardiovascular (CV) risk factor in the general population, little is known about its role in MPNs as well as a possible role of renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (RASi) in comparison with other anti-hypertensive treatments. We investigated a large cohort of 404 MPN adult patients, 133 diagnosed with PV and 271 with ET. Over half of the patients (53.7%) reported hypertension at MPN diagnosis. The 15-year cumulative incidence of thrombotic-adverse events (TAEs) was significantly higher in patients with hypertension (66.8 ± 10.3% vs 38.5 ± 8.4%; HR = 1.83; 95%CI 1.08-3.1). Multivariate analysis showed that PV diagnosis and hypertension were independently associated with a higher risk of developing TAEs (HR = 3.5; 95%CI 1.928-6.451, p < 0.001 and HR = 1.8; 95%CI 0.983-3.550, p = 0.05, respectively). In multivariate analysis, the diagnosis of PV confirmed a significant predictive role in developing TAEs (HR = 4.4; 95%CI 1.92-10.09, p < 0.01), also considering only MPN patients with hypertension. In addition, we found that the use of RASi showed a protective effect from TAEs both in the whole cohort of MPN with hypertension (HR = 0.46; 95%CI 0.21-0.98, p = 0.04) and in the subgroup of thrombotic high-risk score patients (HR = 0.49; 95%CI 0.24-1.01, p = 0.04). In particular, patients with ET and a high risk of thrombosis seem to benefit most from RASi treatment (HR = 0.27; 95%CI 0.07-1.01, p = 0.03). Hypertension in MPN patients represents a significant risk factor for TAEs and should be adequately treated.

Diagnostic Puzzles and Cause-Targeted Treatment Strategies in Myocardial Infarction with Non-Obstructive Coronary Arteries: An Updated Review

Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is a distinct subtype of myocardial infarction (MI), occurring in about 8-10% of spontaneous MI cases referred for coronary angiography. Unlike MI with obstructive coronary artery disease, MINOCA's pathogenesis is more intricate and heterogeneous, involving mechanisms such as coronary thromboembolism, coronary vasospasm, microvascular dysfunction, dissection, or plaque rupture. Diagnosing MINOCA presents challenges and includes invasive and non-invasive strategies aiming to differentiate it from alternative diagnoses and confirm the criteria of elevated cardiac biomarkers, non-obstructive coronary arteries, and the absence of alternate explanations for the acute presentation. Tailored management strategies for MINOCA hinge on identifying the underlying cause of the infarction, necessitating systematic diagnostic approaches. Furthermore, determining the optimal post-MINOCA medication regimen remains uncertain. This review aims to comprehensively address the current state of knowledge, encompassing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, in the context of MINOCA while also highlighting the evolving landscape and future directions for advancing our understanding and management of this intricate myocardial infarction subtype.

Endothelial Sp1/Sp3 are essential to the effect of captopril on blood pressure in male mice

Endothelial dysfunction represents a major cardiovascular risk factor for hypertension. Sp1 and Sp3 belong to the specificity protein and Krüppel-like transcription factor families. They are ubiquitously expressed and closely associated with cardiovascular development. We investigate the role of Sp1 and Sp3 in endothelial cells in vivo and evaluate whether captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), targets Sp1/Sp3 to exert its effects. Inducible endothelial-specific Sp1/Sp3 knockout mice are generated to elucidate their role in endothelial cells. Tamoxifen-induced deletion of endothelial Sp1 and Sp3 in male mice decreases the serum nitrite/nitrate level, impairs endothelium-dependent vasodilation, and causes hypertension and cardiac remodeling. The beneficial actions of captopril are abolished by endothelial-specific deletion of Sp1/Sp3, indicating that they may be targets for ACEIs. Captopril increases Sp1/Sp3 protein levels by recruiting histone deacetylase 1, which elevates deacetylation and suppressed degradation of Sp1/Sp3. Sp1/Sp3 represents innovative therapeutic target for captopril to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Impact of Optimal Medical Therapy on Long-Term Outcomes After Myocardial Revascularization for Multivessel Coronary Disease

Although optimal medical therapy (OMT) after coronary revascularization is advocated for intensive secondary prevention, its criteria and effect on long-term outcomes are uncertain. Using data from the ASAN-Multivessel (Asan Medical Center-Multivessel Revascularization) registry, we identified 8,311 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (n = 3,115) or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) (n = 5,196). OMT was defined as the combination of minimum of 3 medications in 4 drug classes (antiplatelet drugs, statins, β blockers, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers). Two primary outcomes were all-cause mortality and serious composite outcome of death, spontaneous myocardial infarction, or stroke at 10 years. Of 8,311 patients, 4,321 (52.0%) followed OMT. In the 3,397 propensity-score-matched cohort, OMT status compared with non-OMT status was significantly associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality (10.7% vs 18.7%; hazard ratio [HR] 0.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.47 to 0.65) and serious composite outcome (14.5% vs 22.5%, HR 0.635, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.73) at 10 years. The association on 10-year mortality was more prominent in the PCI group (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.56) than in the CABG group (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.90) with a significant interaction (p = 0.001). Overall findings were consistent using different OMT criteria (all 4 types of medications). In conclusion, OMT significantly lowered the risks of mortality and major cardiovascular events at 10 years in patients with multivessel revascularization. The OMT impact on mortality was more remarkable in the PCI group than in the CABG group. This work was registered at http://ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT02039752).

Role of percutaneous coronary intervention in the modern-day management of chronic coronary syndrome

Contemporary randomised trials of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) demonstrate no difference between patients treated with a conservative or invasive strategy with respect to all-cause mortality or myocardial infarction, although trials lack power to test for individual endpoints and long-term follow-up data are needed. Open-label trials consistently show greater improvement in symptoms and quality of life among patients with stable angina treated with PCI. Further studies are awaited to clarify this finding. In patients with severe left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction and obstructive coronary artery disease in the Revascularization for Ischemic Ventricular Dysfunction trial, PCI has not been found to improve all-cause mortality, heart failure hospitalisation or recovery of LV function when compared with medical therapy. PCI was, however, performed without additional hazard and so remains a treatment option when there are favourable patient characteristics. The majority of patients reported no angina, and the low burden of angina in many of the randomised PCI trials is a widely cited limitation. Despite contentious evidence, elective PCI for CCS continues to play a significant role in UK clinical practice. While PCI for urgent indications has more than doubled since 2006, the rate of elective PCI remains unchanged. PCI remains an important strategy when symptoms are not well controlled, and we should maximise its value with appropriate patient selection. In this review, we provide a framework to assist in critical interpretation of findings from most recent trials and meta-analysis evidence.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Inhibitions and Cardiovascular Outcomes in Acute Myocardial Infarction With Renal Impairment

OBJECTIVE

To compare the clinical outcomes of patients with acute myocardial infarction with renal impairment (AMI-RI) treated with either angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in real-world clinical settings.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 4790 consecutive patients with AMI-RI between November 1, 2011, and December 31, 2015, were subdivided into ACEI (n=2845) and ARB (n=1945) treatment groups. The primary end points were major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events, including all-cause mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, any revascularization, cerebrovascular accident, rehospitalization, and stent thrombosis. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to adjust for group differences.

RESULTS

The ARB group had a significantly higher incidence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (at 3-year follow-up) than the ACEI group according to the unadjusted analysis (3-year hazard ratio [HR], 1.60; 95% CI, 1.43 to 1.78) and the PSM-adjusted analysis (3-year HR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.15 to 1.56). However, any revascularization (3-year HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.95 to 1.54) and rehospitalization (3-year HR, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.88 to 1.67) were not significantly different between groups in the PSM-adjusted analysis. Compared with the ARB group, the ACEI group had lower rates of all-cause mortality at estimated glomerular filtration rates of at least 15 or less than 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the unadjusted data and at least 60 or less than 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 in the PSM-adjusted analysis.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with ACEIs seemed to be more beneficial than treatment with ARBs for patients with AMI-RI; further prospective studies are required to confirm these results.

Peripheral Artery Disease: Overview of Diagnosis and Medical Therapy

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) affects approximately 230 million people worldwide and is associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular and limb events. Even though this condition is considered a cardiovascular equivalent, it remains an underrecognized and undertreated entity. Antiplatelet and statin therapy, along with smoking cessation, are the foundations of therapy to reduce adverse events but are challenging to fully implement in this patient population. Race and socioeconomic status also have profound impacts on PAD outcomes.

ACE-Inhibitors in Hypertension: A Historical Perspective and Current Insights

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review describes the discovery and development of ACE inhibitors as antihypertensive agents, compares their efficacy, tolerability, and safety to ARBs, and highlights the contemporary issues surrounding ACE inhibitor use for HTN.

RECENT FINDINGS

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are commonly prescribed medications for the management of hypertension (HTN) and other chronic conditions including heart failure and chronic kidney disease. These agents inhibit ACE, the enzyme that is responsible for converting angiotensin (AT) I to AT II. Inhibiting the synthesis of AT II causes arterial and venous vasodilation, natriuresis, and a decrease in sympathetic activity, resulting in the reduction of blood pressure. ACE inhibitors are first-line therapy in HTN management along with thiazide diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB). Along with inhibiting AT II synthesis, inhibition of ACE causes accumulation of bradykinin, increasing the risk of bradykinin-mediated side effects like angioedema and cough. Since ARBs do not work on ACE in the renin-angiotensin system, the risk of angioedema and cough are lower with ARBs. Recent evidence has also suggested ARBs may have neuroprotective effects compared to other antihypertensives, including ACE inhibitors; however, this warrants further study. Currently, ACE inhibitors and ARBs have an equal class of recommendation for first-line treatment for the management of HTN. Recent evidence has shown ARBs to be just as effective as ACE inhibitors for HTN but with improved tolerability.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease: A Report of the American Heart Association/American College of Cardiology Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines

AIM

The "2023 AHA/ACC/ACCP/ASPC/NLA/PCNA Guideline for the Management of Patients With Chronic Coronary Disease" provides an update to and consolidates new evidence since the "2012 ACCF/AHA/ACP/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease" and the corresponding "2014 ACC/AHA/AATS/PCNA/SCAI/STS Focused Update of the Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease."

METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022. Clinical studies, systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and other evidence conducted on human participants were identified that were published in English from MEDLINE (through PubMed), EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, and other selected databases relevant to this guideline.

STRUCTURE

This guideline provides an evidenced-based and patient-centered approach to management of patients with chronic coronary disease, considering social determinants of health and incorporating the principles of shared decision-making and team-based care. Relevant topics include general approaches to treatment decisions, guideline-directed management and therapy to reduce symptoms and future cardiovascular events, decision-making pertaining to revascularization in patients with chronic coronary disease, recommendations for management in special populations, patient follow-up and monitoring, evidence gaps, and areas in need of future research. Where applicable, and based on availability of cost-effectiveness data, cost-value recommendations are also provided for clinicians. Many recommendations from previously published guidelines have been updated with new evidence, and new recommendations have been created when supported by published data.

Association and progression of multi-morbidity with Chronic Kidney Disease stage 3a secondary to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, grouped by albuminuria status in the multi-ethnic population of Northwest London: A real-world study

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of Diabetic Kidney Disease (DKD) secondary to Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is rising worldwide. However, real-world data linking glomerular function and albuminuria to the degree of multi-morbidity is lacking. We thus utilised the Discover dataset, to determine this association.

METHOD

Patients with T2DM diagnosed prior to 1st January 2015 with no available biochemical evidence of CKD were included. Patients subsequently diagnosed and coded for CKD3a in 2015, were grouped by the degree of albuminuria. Baseline and 5-year co-morbidity was determined, as were prescribing practices with regards to prognostically beneficial medication.

RESULTS

We identified 56,261 patients with T2DM, of which 1082 had CKD stage 3a diagnosed in 2015 (224-CKD3aA1,154-CKD3aA2,93-CKD3aA1; 611 patients with CKD3a but no uACR available in 2015 were excluded from follow up). No statistically significant difference was observed in the degree of co-morbidities at baseline. A significant difference in the degree of hypertension, retinopathy, ischaemic heart disease and vascular disease from baseline compared to study end point was observed for all 3 study groups. Comparing co-morbidities developed at study end point, highlighted a statistical difference between CKD3aA1 Vs CKD3aA3 for retinopathy alone and for hypertension and heart failure between CKD3aA2 Vs CKD3aA3. 40.8% of patients with CKD3aA2 or A3 were prescribed Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone inhibitors (RAASi) therapy between June-December 2021. Survival analysis showed 15% of patients with CKD3aA3 developed CKD stage 5 within 5 years of diagnosis.

DISCUSSION

CKD3a secondary to DKD is associated with significant multimorbidity at baseline and 5 years post diagnosis, with CKD3aA3 most strongly associated with CKD progression to CKD 5, heart failure, hypertension and retinopathy compared to CKD3aA1 or CKD3aA2 at 5 years post diagnosis. The lack of uACR testing upon diagnosis and poor prescribing of RAASi, in those with CKD3aA2/A3, raises significant cause for concern.

CONCLUSION

DKD is associated with significant multimorbidity. Significant work is needed to be done to ensure patients undergo testing for uACR, to allow for future risk stratification and ability to be started on prognostically beneficial medication.

Factors associated with non-adherence to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers in older patients with peripheral arterial disease

Introduction: As in other chronic conditions, medication adherence is important in the treatment of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Our study aimed at a) analysing non-adherence to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in groups of older ACEI and ARB users with PAD, and b) identifying characteristics associated with non-adherence. Methods: We focused on the implementation phase of adherence (i.e., after treatment initiation and before possible discontinuation of treatment). The study cohort included ACEI/ARB users aged ≥65 years in whom PAD was newly diagnosed during 2012. Non-adherence was defined as Proportion of Days Covered (PDC) < 80%. Results: Among 7,080 ACEI/ARB users (6,578 ACEI and 502 ARB users), there was no significant difference in the overall proportion of non-adherent patients between ACEI and ARB users (13.9% and 15.3%, respectively). There were differences in factors associated with non-adherence between the groups of persistent and non-persistent (i.e., discontinued treatment at some point during follow-up) ACEI and ARB users. Increasing age, dementia and bronchial asthma were associated with non-adherence in persistent ACEI users. General practitioner as index prescriber was associated with adherence in the groups of non-persistent ACEI users and persistent ARB users. Conclusion: Identified factors associated with non-adherence may help in determining the groups of patients who require increased attention.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor induced cough compared with placebo, and other antihypertensives: A systematic review, and network meta-analysis

Studies have shown that angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) are superior in primary and secondary prevention for cardiac mortality and morbidity to angiotensin receptor blocker (ARBs). One of the common side effects from ACEI is dry cough. The aims of this systematic review, and network meta-analysis are to rank the risk of cough induced by different ACEIs and between ACEI and placebo, ARB or calcium channel blockers (CCB). We performed a systematic review, and network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials to rank the risk of cough induced by each ACEI and between ACEI and placebo, ARB or CCB. A total of 135 RCTs with 45,420 patients treated with eleven ACEIs were included in the analyses. The pooled estimated relative risk (RR) between ACEI and placebo was 2.21 (95% CI: 2.05-2.39). ACEI had more incidences of cough than ARB (RR 3.2; 95% CI: 2.91, 3.51), and pooled estimated of RR between ACEI and CCB was 5.30 (95% CI: 4.32-6.50) Moexipril ranked as number one for inducing cough (SUCRA 80.4%) and spirapril ranked the least (SUCRA 12.3%). The order for the rest of the ACEIs are as follows: ramipril (SUCRA 76.4%), fosinopril (SUCRA 72.5%), lisinopril (SUCRA 64.7%), benazepril (SUCRA 58.6%), quinapril (SUCRA 56.5%), perindopril (SUCRA 54.1%), enalapril (SUCRA 49.7%), trandolapril (SUCRA 44.6%) and, captopril (SUCRA 13.7%). All ACEI has the similar risk of developing a cough. ACEI should be avoided in patients who have risk of developing cough, and an ARB or CCB is an alternative based on the patient's comorbidity.

Sex-specific Mendelian randomisation to assess the causality of sex differences in the effects of risk factors and treatment: spotlight on hypertension

Hypertension is a key modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Several observational studies have found a stronger association of blood pressure and cardiovascular disease risk in women compared to men. Since observational studies can be affected by sex-specific residual confounding and reverse causation, it remains unclear whether these differences reflect actual differential effects. Other study designs are needed to uncover the causality of sex differences in the strength of risk factor and treatment effects. Mendelian randomisation (MR) uses genetic variants as instrumental variables to provide evidence about putative causal relations between risk factors and outcomes. By exploiting the random allocation of genes at gamete forming, MR is unaffected by confounding and results in more reliable causal effect estimates. In this review, we discuss why and how sex-specific MR and cis-MR could be used to study sex differences in risk factor and drug target effects. Sex-specific MR can be helpful to strengthen causal inferences in the field of sex differences, where it is often challenging to distinguish nature from nurture. The challenge of sex-specific (drug target) MR lays in leveraging robust genetic instruments from sex-specific GWAS studies which are not commonly available. Knowledge on sex-specific causal effects of hypertension, or other risk factors, could improve clinical practice and health policies by tailoring interventions based on personalised risk. Drug target MR can help to determine the anticipated on-target effects of a drug compound and to identify targets to pursue in drug development.

Cost-effectiveness of the CNIC-Polypill versus separate monocomponents in cardiovascular secondary prevention in Spain

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Despite advances in treatment, cardiovascular disease is the second leading cause of death in Spain. The objective of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of the CNIC-Polypill strategy (acetylsalicylic acid 100 mg, atorvastatin 20/40 mg, ramipril 2.5/5/10 mg) compared with the same separate monocomponents for the secondary prevention of recurrent cardiovascular events in adults in Spain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A Markov cost-utility model was adapted considering 4 health states (stable, subsequent major adverse cardiovascular event, subsequent ischemic stroke and death) and the SMART risk equation over a lifetime horizon from the perspective of the Spanish National Healthcare System. The CNIC-Polypill strategy was compared with monocomponents in a hypothetical cohort of 1000 secondary prevention patients. Effectiveness, epidemiological, cost and utilities data were obtained from the NEPTUNO study, official databases and literature. Outcomes were costs (in 2021 euros) per life-year (LY) and quality-adjusted LY (QALY) gained. A 3% discount rate was applied. Deterministic one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses evaluated the robustness of the model.

RESULTS

The CNIC-Polypill strategy in secondary prevention results in more LY (13.22) and QALY (11.64) gains at a lower cost than monocomponents. The CNIC-Polypill is dominant and saves є280.68 per patient compared with monocomponents. The probabilistic sensitivity analysis shows that 82.4% of the simulations are below the threshold of є25,000 per QALY gained.

CONCLUSIONS

The CNIC-Polypill strategy in secondary cardiovascular prevention is cost-effective compared with the same separate monocomponents, resulting in a cost-saving strategy to the Spanish National Healthcare System.

Blood Pressure in Children in the 21st Century: What Do We Know and Where Do We Go From Here?

The association between hypertension in adulthood and cardiovascular morbidity and death is well known. Based on that association, a diagnosis of elevated blood pressure in children has been clinically interpreted as early cardiovascular disease. The objective of this review is to discuss historical data and new research on the relationship between elevated blood pressure and early preclinical and later adult cardiovascular disease. After summarizing the evidence, we will address the gaps in knowledge around Pediatric hypertension in an effort to stimulate research into the important role that control of blood pressure in youth may play in preventing adult cardiovascular disease.

Preoperative Assessment of Patients with Vascular Disease

Patients with vascular disease represent a particularly high-risk surgical population. Many of the comorbidities that contribute to their vascular presentation impact a number of vascular beds or other organ systems. As a result, these patients have the highest rates of cardiac and pulmonary complications among patients with noncardiac surgery. The vascular surgeon is in a unique position to help evaluate and treat many of these conditions to not only reduce the perioperative risk but also to improve the patient's overall health. This article presents a comprehensive review of the common preoperative evaluations that have a high impact on patients with vascular disease.

The Combination of Beta-Blockers and ACE Inhibitors Across the Spectrum of Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, affecting a wide range of patients at different stages across the cardiovascular continuum. Hypertension is one of the earliest risk factors in this continuum and can be controlled in most patients with currently available antihypertensive agents. However, goals are often not met because treatments are not optimized in terms of tailoring therapy to individual patients based on their hypertension subclass and cardiovascular risk profile and initiating early use of adapted-dose, single-pill combinations. In this context, beta-blockers in combination with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are of special interest as a result of their complementary actions on the sympathetic nervous system and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, two interlinked pathways that influence cardiovascular risk and disease outcomes. In addition to their antihypertensive actions, beta-blockers are used to manage arrhythmias and treat angina pectoris and heart failure, while ACE inhibitors provide cardioprotection in patients with acute coronary syndromes and treat congestive heart failure. A broad range of patients may therefore receive the combination in routine clinical practice. This paper examines the supporting evidence for beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors in each of the above indications and considers the rationale for combining these agents into a single pill, using data from bisoprolol and perindopril randomized controlled trials as supporting evidence. Combining these established antihypertensive agents into a single pill continues to provide effective blood pressure lowering and improved cardiovascular outcomes while allowing a greater proportion of patients to rapidly achieve treatment targets.

Angiotensin Regulation of Vascular Homeostasis: Exploring the Role of ROS and RAS Blockers

Extensive research has been conducted to elucidate and substantiate the crucial role of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) in the pathogenesis of hypertension, cardiovascular disorders, and renal diseases. Furthermore, the role of oxidative stress in maintaining vascular balance has been well established. It has been observed that many of the cellular effects induced by Angiotensin II (Ang II) are facilitated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase. In this paper, we present a comprehensive overview of the role of ROS in the physiology of human blood vessels, specifically focusing on its interaction with RAS. Moreover, we delve into the mechanisms by which clinical interventions targeting RAS influence redox signaling in the vascular wall.

The Role of Renin-Angiotensin System in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: A Narrative Review

Diabetic cardiomyopathy refers to myocardial dysfunction in type 2 diabetes, but without the traditional cardiovascular risk factors or overt clinical atherosclerosis and valvular disease. The activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), oxidative stress, lipotoxicity, maladaptive immune responses, imbalanced mitochondrial dynamics, impaired myocyte autophagy, increased myocyte apoptosis, and fibrosis contribute to diabetic cardiomyopathy. This review summarizes the studies that address the link between cardiomyopathy and the RAS in humans and presents proposed pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this association. The RAS plays an important role in the development and progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy. The over-activation of the classical RAS axis in diabetes leads to the increased production of angiotensin (Ang) II, angiotensin type 1 receptor activation, and aldosterone release, contributing to increased oxidative stress, fibrosis, and cardiac remodeling. In contrast, Ang-(1-7) suppresses oxidative stress, inhibits tissue fibrosis, and prevents extensive cardiac remodeling. Angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers improve heart functioning and reduce the occurrence of diabetic cardiomyopathy. Experimental studies also show beneficial effects for Ang-(1-7) and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 infusion in improving heart functioning and tissue injury. Further research is necessary to fully understand the pathophysiology of diabetic cardiomyopathy and to translate experimental findings into clinical practice.

Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System Inhibitors Are Associated With Favorable Outcomes Compared to Beta Blockers in Reducing Mortality Following Abdominal Aneurysm Repair

Background The best medical therapy to control hypertension following abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is yet to be determined. We therefore examined whether treatment with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASIs) versus beta blockers influenced postoperative and 1-year clinical end points following abdominal aortic aneurysm repair in a Medicare-linked database. Methods and Results All patients with hypertension undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair and open aneurysm repair in the Vascular Quality Initiative Vascular Implant Surveillance and Interventional Outcomes Network database between 2003 and 2018 were included. Patients were divided into 2 groups based on their preoperative and discharge medications, either RAASIs or beta blockers. Our cohort included 8789 patients, of whom 3523 (40.1%) were on RAASIs, and 5266 (59.9%) were on beta blockers. After propensity score matching, there were 3053 matched pairs of patients in each group. After matching, RAASI use was associated with lower risk of postoperative mortality (odds ratio [OR], 0.3 [95% CI, 0.1-0.6]), myocardial infarction (OR, 0.1 [95% CI, 0.03-0.6]), and nonhome discharge (OR, 0.6 [95% CI, 0.5-0.7]). Before propensity score matching, RAASI use was associated with lower 1-year mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.4 [95% CI, 0.4-0.5]) and lower risk of aneurysmal rupture (HR, 0.7 [95% CI, 0.5-0.9]). These results persisted after propensity score matching for mortality (HR, 0.4 [95% CI, 0.4-0.5]) and aneurysmal rupture (HR, 0.7 [95% CI, 0.5-0.9]). Conclusions In this large contemporary retrospective cohort study, RAASI use was associated with favorable postoperative outcomes compared with beta blockers. It was also associated with lower mortality and aneurysmal rupture at 1 year of follow-up.

Making Sense of Composite Endpoints in Clinical Research

Multiple drugs currently used in clinical practice have been approved by regulatory agencies based on studies that utilize composite endpoints. Composite endpoints are appealing because they reduce sample size requirements, follow-up periods, and costs. However, interpreting composite endpoints can be challenging, and their misuse is not uncommon. Incorrect interpretation of composite outcomes can lead to misleading conclusions that impact patient care. To correctly interpret composite outcomes, several important questions should be considered. Are the individual components of the composite outcome equally important to patients? Did the more and less important endpoints occur with similar frequency? Do the component endpoints exhibit similar relative risk reductions? If these questions receive affirmative answers, the use and interpretation of the composite endpoint would be appropriate. However, if any component of the composite endpoint fails to satisfy the aforementioned criteria, interpretation can become difficult, necessitating additional steps. Regulatory agencies acknowledge these challenges and have specific considerations when approving drugs based on studies employing composite endpoints. In conclusion, composite endpoints are valuable tools for evaluating the efficacy and net clinical benefit of interventions; however, cautious interpretation is advised.

Discontinuation of Renin-Angiotensin System Inhibitors During the Early Stage of the COVID-19 Pandemic

BACKGROUND

In March and April 2020, medical societies published statements recommending continued use of renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors despite theoretical concerns that these medications could increase COVID-19 severity. Determining if patients discontinued RAS inhibitors during the COVID-19 pandemic could inform responses to future public health emergencies.

METHODS

We analyzed claims data from US adults with health insurance in the Marketscan database. We identified patients who filled a RAS inhibitor and were persistent, defined by not having a ≥30-day gap without medication available, and high adherence, defined by having medication available on ≥80% of days, from March 2019 to February 2020. Among these patients, we estimated the proportion who discontinued their RAS inhibitor (i.e., had ≥30 consecutive days without a RAS inhibitor available to take) between March and August 2020. For comparison, we estimated the proportion of patients that discontinued a RAS inhibitor between March and August 2019 after being persistent with high adherence from March 2018 to February 2019.

RESULTS

Among 816,380 adults who were persistent and adherent to a RAS inhibitor from March 2019 to February 2020, 10.8% discontinued this medication between March and August 2020. Among 822,873 adults who were persistent and adherent to a RAS inhibitor from March 2018 to February 2019, 11.7% discontinued this medication between March and August 2019. The multivariable-adjusted relative risk for RAS inhibitor discontinuation in 2020 vs. 2019 was 0.94 (95% CI 0.93-0.95).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no evidence of an increase in RAS inhibitor discontinuation during the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Renin-Angiotensin System: Updated Understanding and Role in Physiological and Pathophysiological States

The classical view of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is that of the circulating hormone pathway involved in salt and water homeostasis and blood pressure regulation. It is also involved in the pathogenesis of cardiac and renal disorders. This led to the creation of drugs blocking the actions of this classical pathway, which improved cardiac and renal outcomes. Our understanding of the RAS has significantly expanded with the discovery of new peptides involved in this complex pathway. Over the last two decades, a counter-regulatory or protective pathway has been discovered that opposes the effects of the classical pathway. Components of RAS are also implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity and its metabolic diseases. The continued discovery of newer molecules also provides novel therapeutic targets to improve disease outcomes. This article aims to provide an overview of an updated understanding of the RAS, its role in physiological and pathological processes, and potential novel therapeutic options from RAS for managing cardiorenal disorders, obesity, and related metabolic disorders.

An In-Depth Prospective Comprehensive View on Myocardial Infarction (MI) in Young Adults

Due to major advancements in myocardial infarction (MI) prevention and effective medical treatment, the death rate and incidence of MI have dropped considerably. We know that their risk factors and prognosis may differ; therefore, increasing primary and secondary prevention activities among young people is crucial. Multiple studies have found that MI is the deadliest form of coronary heart disease (CHD). As a result, we made an effort to illuminate MI in young people in our review of the literature. We found that young people, particularly women, are developing MI. Smoking is a key risk factor that should be targeted in an effort to minimize youth MI rates. It is thus important to create superior methods for measuring risk in young people, which may combine both standard and nonconventional risk factors, such as genetic rate scores and coronary artery calcium testing. Henceforth, addressing modifiable risk factors at a younger age has the greatest impact.

Focus on the Prevention of Acute Limb Ischemia: Centrality of the General Practitioner from the Point of View of the Internist

The thrombotic mechanism, being common to peripheral arterial disease (PAD), acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and stroke, is responsible for the highest number of deaths in the western world. However, while much has been done for the prevention, early diagnosis, therapy of AMI and stroke, the same cannot be said for PAD, which is a negative prognostic indicator for cardiovascular death. Acute limb ischemia (ALI) and chronic limb ischemia (CLI) are the most severe manifestations of PAD. They both are defined by the presence of PAD, rest pain, gangrene, or ulceration and we consider ALI if symptoms last less than 2 weeks and CLI if they last more than 2 weeks. The most frequent causes are certainly atherosclerotic and embolic mechanisms and, to a lesser extent, traumatic or surgical mechanisms. From a pathophysiological point of view, atherosclerotic, thromboembolic, inflammatory mechanisms are implicated. ALI is a medical emergency that puts both limb and the patient's life at risk. In patients over age 80 undergoing surgery, mortality remains high reaching approximately 40% as well as amputation approximately 11%. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the scientific evidence on the possibilities of primary and secondary prevention of ALI and to raise awareness among doctors involved in the management of ALI, in particular by describing the central role of the general practitioner.

Evidence-Based Optimal Medical Therapy and Mortality in Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Background The secondary prevention with pharmacologic therapy is essential for preventing recurrent cardiovascular events in patients experiencing acute myocardial infarction. Guideline-based optimal medical therapy (OMT) for patients with acute myocardial infarction consists of antiplatelet therapy, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin II receptor blockers, β-blockers, and statins. We aimed to determine the prescription rate of OMT use at discharge and to evaluate the impact of OMT on long-term clinical outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention in the drug-eluting stent era using nationwide cohort data. Methods and Results Using the National Health Insurance claims data in South Korea, patients with acute myocardial infarction who had undergone percutaneous coronary intervention with a drug-eluting stent between July 2013 and June 2017 were enrolled. A total of 35 972 patients were classified into the OMT and non-OMT groups according to the post-percutaneous coronary intervention discharge medication. The primary end point was all-cause death, and the 2 groups were compared using a propensity-score matching analysis. Fifty-seven percent of patients were prescribed OMT at discharge. During the follow-up period (median, 2.0 years [interquartile range, 1.1-3.2 years]), OMT was associated with a significant reduction in the all-cause mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.82 [95% CI, 0.76-0.90]; P<0.001) and composite outcome of death or coronary revascularization (aHR, 0.89 [95% CI, 0.85-0.93]; P<0.001). Conclusions OMT was prescribed at suboptimal rates in South Korea. However, our nationwide cohort study showed that OMT has a benefit for long-term clinical outcomes on all-cause mortality and composite outcome of death or coronary revascularization after percutaneous coronary intervention in the drug-eluting stent era.

Optimal Medical Management in Patients undergoing Peripheral Vascular Interventions for Chronic Limb Threatening Ischemia is associated with Improved Outcomes

OBJECTIVE

Optimizing medical management and risk factor modification are underutilized strategies in patients with chronic limb threatening ischemia (CLTI), despite evidence of improved outcomes. The Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) registry is a tool to improve quality of vascular care. In this study, we used the VQI to evaluate trends in medical management in CLTI patients undergoing peripheral vascular interventions (PVI), and the impact of changes in management on overall survival (OS), amputation-free survival (AFS) and limb salvage (LS).

METHODS

Patients undergoing index PVI for CLTI between 2012-2016, with at least 24-month follow-up were identified from the national VQI registry. Patient details including smoking status and medication use, OS, LS, and AFS were analyzed with linear-by-linear association, t-test and logistic regression.

RESULTS

12,370 PVI were completed in 11,466 patients. There was a significant increase in infrapopliteal interventions (29.8% → 39.0%; P < .001) and PVI performed for tissue loss (TL) (59.1% → 66.5%; P < .001). The percentage of current smokers at time of PVI decreased (36.2% → 30.7%; P = .036). At discharge, statins were initiated in 25%, aspirin in 45% and P2Y12 therapy in 58% of patients not receiving these medications prior to PVI. Over the course of follow-up, dual antiplatelet (DAPT) (41.1% → 48.0%; P < .001), ACE-inhibitor (46.2% → 51.3%; P < .001), and statin (70.4% → 77.5%; P < .001) use increased. Combined DAPT, ACE-inhibitor and statin use increased from 33.6% → 39.6% (P=<.001). Significant improvement in 24-month OS and AFS was noted (OS, 90.9% → 93.7%; P = .002: AFS, 81.2% → 83.1%; P = .046) but not LS (89.6% → 89.0%; P = .83). Combined therapy with P2Y12 inhibitors, statins and ACE-inhibitors was an independent predictor of improved OS (HR 0.61; 0.39 - 0.96, P = .034). DAPT was independent predictor of improved LS (HR 0.83; 0.79 - 0.87, P < .007).

CONCLUSION

Antiplatelet, ACE-inhibitor and statin use increased over the study period and was associated with improved OS and AFS. Limb salvage trends did not change significantly over time, possibly due to inclusion of patients with higher disease burden or inadequate medical management. Medical management, although improved, remained far from optimal and represents an area for continued development.

Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries: from pathophysiology to therapeutic strategies

Myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) is a heterogeneous group of clinical entities characterized by clinical evidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with normal or near-normal coronary arteries on coronary angiography (stenosis < 50%) and without an over the alternative diagnosis for the acute presentation. Its prevalence ranges from 6% to 11% among all patients with AMI, with a predominance of young, nonwhite females with fewer traditional risks than those with an obstructive coronary artery disease (MI-CAD). MINOCA can be due to either epicardial causes such as rupture or fissuring of unstable nonobstructive atherosclerotic plaque, coronary artery spasm, spontaneous coronary dissection and cardioembolism in-situ or microvascular causes. Besides, also type-2 AMI due to supply-demand mismatch and Takotsubo syndrome must be considered as a possible MINOCA cause. Because of the complex etiology and a limited amount of evidence, there is still some confusion around the management and treatment of these patients. Therefore, the key focus of this condition is to identify the underlying individual mechanisms to achieve patient-specific treatments. Clinical history, electrocardiogram, echocardiography, and coronary angiography represent the first-level diagnostic investigations, but coronary imaging with intravascular ultrasound and optical coherent tomography, coronary physiology testing, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging offer additional information to understand the underlying cause of MINOCA. Although the prognosis is slightly better compared with MI-CAD patients, MINOCA is not always benign and depends on the etiopathology. This review analyzes all possible pathophysiological mechanisms that could lead to MINOCA and provides the most specific and appropriate therapeutic approach in each scenario.

A Motivational Interviewing Intervention to Improve Adherence to ACEIs/ARBs among Nonadherent Older Adults with Comorbid Hypertension and Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Hypertension and diabetes mellitus are independent risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Due to the cardioprotective nature of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), they are recommended for patients with comorbid hypertension and diabetes. However, poor adherence to ACEIs/ARBs among older adults is a major public health concern. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a telephonic motivational interviewing (MI) intervention conducted by pharmacy students among a nonadherent older population (≥ 65 years old) with diabetes and hypertension.

METHODS

Patients continuously enrolled in a Medicare Advantage Plan who received an ACEI/ARB prescription between July 2017 and December 2017 were identified. Group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM) was used to identify distinct patterns of ACEI/ARB adherence during the 1-year baseline period: adherent, gaps in adherence, gradual decline, and rapid decline in adherence. Patients from the three nonadherent trajectories were randomized into MI intervention or control group. The intervention consisted of an initial call and five follow-up calls administered by MI-trained pharmacy students and tailored to the baseline ACEI/ARB adherence trajectories. The primary outcome was adherence to ACEI/ARB during the 6- and 12-month periods post-MI implementation. The secondary outcome was discontinuation, defined as no refills for ACEI/ARB during the 6- and 12-month periods post-MI implementation. Multivariable regression analyses examined the impact of MI intervention on ACEI/ARB adherence and discontinuation while adjusting for baseline covariates.

RESULTS

A total of 240 patients in the intervention group and 480 patients as randomly selected controls were included in this study. At 6 months, patients receiving the MI intervention had significantly better adherence (β = 0.06; p = 0.03) compared with the controls. Linear and logistic regression models also showed patients in the intervention group were more likely to be adherent than controls within 12 months of intervention implementation (β = 0.06; p = 0.02 and OR: 1.46; 95% CI 1.05-2.04, respectively). MI intervention did not have any significant impact on the ACEI/ARB discontinuation.

CONCLUSION

Patients who received the MI intervention were more likely to be adherent at 6 and 12 months following the intervention initiation, despite gaps in the follow-up calls due to COVID-19. Pharmacist-led MI intervention is an effective behavioral strategy to improve medication adherence among older adults and tailoring the intervention to past adherence patterns may enhance the intervention effectiveness. This study was registered with the United States National Institutes of Health (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03985098).