Increased mortality with elevated plasma endothelin-1 in acute heart failure: an ASCEND-HF biomarker substudy

Hypoxia-induced signaling in the cardiovascular system: pathogenesis and therapeutic targets

Hypoxia, characterized by reduced oxygen concentration, is a significant stressor that affects the survival of aerobic species and plays a prominent role in cardiovascular diseases. From the research history and milestone events related to hypoxia in cardiovascular development and diseases, The "hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) switch" can be observed from both temporal and spatial perspectives, encompassing the occurrence and progression of hypoxia (gradual decline in oxygen concentration), the acute and chronic manifestations of hypoxia, and the geographical characteristics of hypoxia (natural selection at high altitudes). Furthermore, hypoxia signaling pathways are associated with natural rhythms, such as diurnal and hibernation processes. In addition to innate factors and natural selection, it has been found that epigenetics, as a postnatal factor, profoundly influences the hypoxic response and progression within the cardiovascular system. Within this intricate process, interactions between different tissues and organs within the cardiovascular system and other systems in the context of hypoxia signaling pathways have been established. Thus, it is the time to summarize and to construct a multi-level regulatory framework of hypoxia signaling and mechanisms in cardiovascular diseases for developing more therapeutic targets and make reasonable advancements in clinical research, including FDA-approved drugs and ongoing clinical trials, to guide future clinical practice in the field of hypoxia signaling in cardiovascular diseases.

Could Endothelin-1 Be a Promising Neurohormonal Biomarker in Acute Heart Failure?

Acute heart failure (AHF) is a life-threatening condition with high morbidity and mortality. Even though this pathology has been extensively researched, there are still challenges in establishing an accurate and early diagnosis, determining the long- and short-term prognosis and choosing a targeted therapeutic strategy. The use of reliable biomarkers to support clinical judgment has been shown to improve the management of AHF patients. Despite a large pool of interesting candidate biomarkers, endothelin-1 (ET-1) appears to be involved in multiple aspects of AHF pathogenesis that include neurohormonal activation, cardiac remodeling, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, atherosclerosis and alteration of the renal function. Since its discovery, numerous studies have shown that the level of ET-1 is associated with the severity of symptoms and cardiac dysfunction in this pathology. The purpose of this paper is to review the existing information on ET-1 and answer the question of whether this neurohormone could be a promising biomarker in AHF.

Hyperlipidemia and Cardiovascular Risk in Children and Adolescents

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) represents the major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The onset of the atherosclerosis process occurs during childhood and adolescence, subsequently leading to the onset of cardiovascular disease as young adults. Several cardiovascular risk factors can be identified in children and adolescents; however, hyperlipidemia, in conjunction with the global obesity epidemic, has emerged as the most prevalent, playing a key role in the development of ASCVD. Therefore, screening for hyperlipidemia is strongly recommended to detect high-risk children presenting with these disorders, as these patients deserve more intensive investigation and intervention. Treatment should be initiated as early as possible in order to reduce the risk of future ASCVD. In this review, we will discuss lipid metabolism and hyperlipidemia, focusing on correlations with cardiovascular risk and screening and therapeutic management to reduce or almost completely avoid the development of ASCVD.

Association between Plasma Big Endothelin-1 Level and The Severity of Coronary Artery Disease in Patients with Non-ST Segment-Elevated Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Early risk stratification with simple biomarkers is essential in patients with non-ST segment-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the association between plasma big endothelin-1 (ET-1) level and the SYNTAX score (SS) in patients with NSTEMI.

METHODS

A total of 766 patients with NSTEMI undergoing coronary angiography were recruited. Patients were divided into three groups: low SS (≤22), intermediate SS (23-32), and high SS (>32). Spearman correlation, smooth curve fitting, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis were performed to evaluate the association between plasma big ET-1 level and the SS. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

There was a significant correlation between the big ET-1 and the SS (r=0.378, p<0.001). The smoothing curve indicated a positive correlation between the plasma big ET-1 level and the SS. The ROC curve analysis showed that the area under the curve was 0.695 (0.661-0.727) and the optimal cutoff of plasma big ET-1 level was 0.35pmol/l. Logistic regression showed that elevated big ET-1 was an independent predictor of intermediate-high SS in patients with NSTEMI, whether entered as a continuous variable [OR (95% CI): 1.110 (1.053-1.170), p<0.001] or as a categorical variable [OR (95% CI): 2.962 (2.073-4.233), p<0.001].

CONCLUSION

In patients with NSTEMI, the plasma big ET-1 level was significantly correlated with the SS. Elevated plasma big ET-1 level was an independent predictor for intermediate-high SS.

Big Endothelin-1 and long-term all-cause death in patients with coronary artery disease and prediabetes or diabetes after percutaneous coronary intervention

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The present study aimed to examine the association between big endothelin-1 (big ET-1) and long-term all-cause death in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and different glucose metabolism status.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We consecutively enrolled 8550 patients from January 2013 to December 2013. Patients were categorized according to both status of glucose metabolism status [Diabetes Mellitus (DM), Pre-Diabetes (Pre-DM), Normoglycemia (NG)] and big ET-1 levels. Primary endpoint was all-cause death. During a median of 5.1-year follow-up periods, 301 all-cause deaths occurred. Elevated big ET-1 was significantly associated with long-term all-cause death (adjusted HR: 2.230, 95%CI 1.629-3.051; p < 0.001). Similarly, patients with DM, but not Pre-DM, had increased risk of all-cause death compared with NG group (p < 0.05). When patients were categorized by both status of glucose metabolism and big ET-1 levels, high big ET-1 were associated with significantly higher risk of all-cause death in Pre-DM (adjusted HR: 2.442, 95% CI 1.039-5.740; p = 0.041) and DM (adjusted HR: 3.162, 95% CI 1.376-7.269; p = 0.007). The Kaplan-Meier curve indicated that DM patients with the highest big ET-1 levels were associated with the greatest risk of all-cause death (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The present data indicate that baseline big ET-1 levels were independently associated with the long-term all-cause death in DM and Pre-DM patients with CAD undergoing PCI, suggesting that big ET-1 may be a valuable marker in patients with impaired glucose metabolism.

Cardiovascular Biomarkers: Lessons of the Past and Prospects for the Future

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a major healthcare burden on the population worldwide. Early detection of this disease is important in prevention and treatment to minimise morbidity and mortality. Biomarkers are a critical tool to either diagnose, screen, or provide prognostic information for pathological conditions. This review discusses the historical cardiac biomarkers used to detect these conditions, discussing their application and their limitations. Identification of new biomarkers have since replaced these and are now in use in routine clinical practice, but still do not detect all disease. Future cardiac biomarkers are showing promise in early studies, but further studies are required to show their value in improving detection of CVD above the current biomarkers. Additionally, the analytical platforms that would allow them to be adopted in healthcare are yet to be established. There is also the need to identify whether these biomarkers can be used for diagnostic, prognostic, or screening purposes, which will impact their implementation in routine clinical practice.

ENDOTHELIN-1 AS A RISK FACTOR IN RETINAL VEIN OCCLUSION

PURPOSE

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) risk factors largely coincide with cardiovascular risk factors. Endothelin-1 (ET-1), the most potent vasoconstrictor with proinflammatory properties, is a known cardiovascular risk factor. In this study, we explore the role of serum ET-1 as a potential risk factor for RVO.

METHODS

Endothelin-1 serum levels were measured in patients with RVO and control subjects. Samples were measured using the sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the quantitative determination of human big endothelin-1 (Biomedica Group, Austria).

RESULTS

The study consisted of 147 RVO patients and 150 control subjects. Median serum ET-1 was significantly higher in RVO patients (0.26 pmol/L; range, 0.19-0.37 pmol/L) compared with control subjects (0.10 pmol/L; range, 0.05-0.22 pmol/L) (P < 0.0001) independent of the occlusion site. The difference remained significant after adjusting for arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, history of stroke, history of myocardial infarction, history of venous thromboembolism, glomerular filtration rate, and c-reactive protein.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our results suggest that ET-1 is a potential risk factor for all types of RVO.

A clinically relevant sheep model of orthotopic heart transplantation 24 h after donor brainstem death

Background

Heart transplantation (HTx) from brainstem dead (BSD) donors is the gold-standard therapy for severe/end-stage cardiac disease, but is limited by a global donor heart shortage. Consequently, innovative solutions to increase donor heart availability and utilisation are rapidly expanding. Clinically relevant preclinical models are essential for evaluating interventions for human translation, yet few exist that accurately mimic all key HTx components, incorporating injuries beginning in the donor, through to the recipient. To enable future assessment of novel perfusion technologies in our research program, we thus aimed to develop a clinically relevant sheep model of HTx following 24 h of donor BSD.

Methods

BSD donors (vs. sham neurological injury, 4/group) were hemodynamically supported and monitored for 24 h, followed by heart preservation with cold static storage. Bicaval orthotopic HTx was performed in matched recipients, who were weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), and monitored for 6 h. Donor and recipient blood were assayed for inflammatory and cardiac injury markers, and cardiac function was assessed using echocardiography. Repeated measurements between the two different groups during the study observation period were assessed by mixed ANOVA for repeated measures.

Results

Brainstem death caused an immediate catecholaminergic hemodynamic response (mean arterial pressure, p = 0.09), systemic inflammation (IL-6 - p = 0.025, IL-8 - p = 0.002) and cardiac injury (cardiac troponin I, p = 0.048), requiring vasopressor support (vasopressor dependency index, VDI, p = 0.023), with normalisation of biomarkers and physiology over 24 h. All hearts were weaned from CPB and monitored for 6 h post-HTx, except one (sham) recipient that died 2 h post-HTx. Hemodynamic (VDI - p = 0.592, heart rate - p = 0.747) and metabolic (blood lactate, p = 0.546) parameters post-HTx were comparable between groups, despite the observed physiological perturbations that occurred during donor BSD. All p values denote interaction among groups and time in the ANOVA for repeated measures.

Conclusions

We have successfully developed an ovine HTx model following 24 h of donor BSD. After 6 h of critical care management post-HTx, there were no differences between groups, despite evident hemodynamic perturbations, systemic inflammation, and cardiac injury observed during donor BSD. This preclinical model provides a platform for critical assessment of injury development pre- and post-HTx, and novel therapeutic evaluation.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40635-021-00425-4.

Predictive value of laboratory markers in the development of cardiac events in patients with stable coronary artery disease after elective endovascular revascularization

Aim      To reveal a relationship between preprocedural laboratory data and adverse cardiac outcomes (CO) in patients with stable ischemic heart disease (IHD) following elective endovascular revascularization (ER).Material and methods  This study included 225 patients with IHD admitted for treatment to the Research Institute of Cardiology of the Tomsk National Research Medical Center. The study included patients with documented IHD and hemodynamically significant coronary stenoses requiring elective ER. Patients were divided into groups based on the presence of complications: group 1, 98 patients with adverse CO and group 2, 127 patients without adverse CO. Besides evaluation of complaints, history, and objective status, general clinical and biochemical tests were performed for all patients. Concentration of glycated hemoglobin (НbА1с) was measured by immunoturbidimetry (DiaSys Diagnostic Systems). Serum concentrations of insulin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), endothelin 1 (ET-1), and homocysteine were measured by enzyme immunoassay. Blood lipid profile was determined by enzymatic colorimetry (DiaSys). Content of non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL) cholesterol (CS) was calculated as: CS - HDL CS. Insulin resistance (IR) was assessed by the HOMА-IR index. IR was diagnosed at the index of 2.77. Statistical analyses were performed with Statistica 10.0 and Medcalc 19.2.6 software.Results A one-way regression analysis identified predictors for adverse CO following ER. The most significant predictors were fibrinogen (odds ratio (OR), 1.430; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.027-1.990), HbA1c (OR 1.825; 95 % CI, 1.283-2.598), homocysteine (OR, 1.555; 95 % CI, 1.348-1.794), ET-1 (OR, 94.408; 95 % CI, 16.762-531.720), triglycerides (TG)/glucose ratio (OR 1.815; 95 % CI, 1.155-2.853). Based on selected factors, logistic regression models were constructed. However, not all models had a high prognostic power. Only concentrations of ET-1 and homocysteine showed a high prognostic capability in respect of the adverse outcome (88.3 and 85.7 %, respectively).Conclusion      For patients with IHD, the prognostic capability of ET-1 and homocysteine with respect of the risk for adverse CO following ER was the highest compared to other markers. The results of the study are completely consistent with data of literature and can be successfully used in clinical practice for optimizing the medical care of patients after elective ER.

Biomarkers in Acute Heart Failure Syndromes: An Update

Heart failure is one of the leading healthcare problems in the world. Clinical data lacks sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of heart failure. Laboratory biomarkers are a non-invasive method of assessing suspected decompensated heart failure. Biomarkers such as natriuretic peptides have shown promising results in the management of heart failure. The literature does not provide comprehensive guidance in the utilization of biomarkers in the setting of acute heart failure syndrome. Many conditions that manifest with similar pathophysiology as acute heart failure syndrome may demonstrate positive biomarkers. The following is a review of biomarkers in heart failure, enlightening their role in diagnosis, prognosis and management of heart failure.

Biomarkers for the diagnosis and management of heart failure

Heart failure (HF) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Circulating biomarkers reflecting pathophysiological pathways involved in HF development and progression may assist clinicians in early diagnosis and management of HF patients. Natriuretic peptides (NPs) are cardioprotective hormones released by cardiomyocytes in response to pressure or volume overload. The roles of B-type NP (BNP) and N-terminal pro-B-type NP (NT-proBNP) for diagnosis and risk stratification in HF have been extensively demonstrated, and these biomarkers are emerging tools for population screening and as guides to the start of treatment in subclinical HF. On the contrary, conflicting evidence exists on the role of NPs as a guide to HF therapy. Among the other biomarkers, high-sensitivity troponins and soluble suppression of tumorigenesis-2 are the most promising biomarkers for risk stratification, with independent value to NPs. Other biomarkers evaluated as predictors of adverse outcome are galectin-3, growth differentiation factor 15, mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin, and makers of renal dysfunction. Multi-marker scores and genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic analyses could further refine HF management.

Reappraisal of Inflammatory Biomarkers in Heart Failure

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Inflammation has been shown to be an important factor in the development and progression of heart failure (HF), regardless of the etiology. There have been many studies that demonstrated roles of inflammatory biomarkers in diagnosis, prognosis of chronic and acute HF patients, and also markers of cardiotoxicity from chemotherapy. These cytokines are high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), myeloperoxidase (MPO), soluble growth stimulation expressed gene 2 (sST2), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα), growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and galectin-3. In this review, we discuss the past and present insights of those inflammatory biomarkers in order to gain more understanding in pathogenesis of HF, risk stratification of HF patients, and early detection of cardiotoxicity from cancer therapy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Many inflammatory cytokines have been shown to be associated with mortality of both chronic and acute HF patients, and some of them are able to track treatment responses, especially sST2 and galectin-3, which are the only two inflammatory biomarkers recommended to use in clinical setting by the recent standard HF guidelines, while some studies described ET-1 and MPO as potential predictors of cardiotoxicity from cancer drugs. The prognostic implications of inflammatory biomarkers in HF patients have been demonstrated more consistently in chronic than acute HF, with some suggestions of ET-1 and MPO in patients receiving chemotherapy. However, further studies are necessary for the use of inflammatory biomarkers in routine clinical practice.

Elevated Plasma Big Endothelin-1 at Admission Is Associated With Poor Short-Term Outcomes in Patients With Acute Decompensated Heart Failure

Objective: We aimed to evaluate the association between plasma big endothelin-1 (ET-1) at admission and short-term outcomes in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) patients.

Methods: In this single-center, retrospective study, a total of 746 ADHF patients were enrolled and divided into three groups according to baseline plasma big ET-1 levels: tertile 1 (<0.43 pmol/L, n = 250), tertile 2 (between 0.43 and 0.97 pmol/L, n = 252), and tertile 3 (>0.97 pmol/L, n = 244). The primary outcomes were all-cause death, cardiac arrest, or utilization of mechanical support devices during hospitalization. Logistic regression analysis and net reclassification improvement approach were applied to assess the predictive power of big ET-1 on short-term outcomes.

Results: During hospitalization, 92 (12.3%) adverse events occurred. Etiology, arterial pH, lactic acid, total bilirubin, serum creatine, serum uric acid, presence of atrial fibrillation and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels were positively correlated with plasma big ET-1 level, whereas systolic blood pressure, serum sodium, hemoglobin, albumin, and estimated glomerular filtration rate were negatively correlated. In multivariate logistic regression, tertile 3 compared with tertile 1 had a 3.68-fold increased risk of adverse outcomes [odds ratio (OR) = 3.681, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.410–9.606, p = 0.008]. However, such adverse effect did not exist between tertile 2 and tertile 1 (OR = 0.953, 95% CI 0.314–2.986, p = 0.932). As a continuous variable, big ET-1 level was significantly associated with primary outcome (OR = 1.756, 95% CI 1.413–2.183, p < 0.001). The C statistic of baseline big ET-1 was 0.66 (95% CI 0.601–0.720, p < 0.001). Net reclassification index (NRI) analysis showed that big ET-1 provided additional predictive power when combining it to NT-proBNP (NRI = 0.593, p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Elevated baseline big ET-1 is an independent predictor of short-term adverse events in ADHF patients and may provide valuable information for risk stratification.

Interleukin-6 and Outcomes in Acute Heart Failure: An ASCEND-HF Substudy

BACKGROUND

The inflammatory cytokine IL-6 has been previously implicated in the pathophysiology of acute decompensated heart failure (HF). Prior observations in acute HF patients have suggested that IL-6 may be associated with outcomes and modulated by nesiritide. We aimed to evaluate the associations between serial IL-6 measurements, mortality and rehospitalization in acute HF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We analyzed the associations between IL-6 in acute HF, readmission, and mortality (30 and 180 days) using a cohort of 883 hospitalized patients from the ASCEND-HF trial (nesiritide vs placebo). Plasma IL-6 was measured at randomization (baseline), 48-72 hours, and 30 days. The median IL-6 was highest at baseline (14.1 pg/mL) and decreased at subsequent time points (7.6 pg/mL at 30 days). In a univariable Cox regression analysis, the baseline IL-6 was associated with 30- and 180-day mortality (hazard ratio per log 1.74, 95% confidence interval 1.09-2.78, P = .021; hazard ratio 3.23, confidence interval 1.18-8.86, P = .022, respectively). However, there was no association after multivariable adjustment. IL-6 at 48-72 hours was found to be independently associated with 30-day mortality (hazard ratio 8.2, confidence interval 1.2-57.5, P= .03), but not 180-day mortality in multivariable analysis that included the ASCEND-HF risk model and amino terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide as covariates. In comparison with placebo, nesiritide therapy was not associated with differences in serial IL-6 levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Although elevated IL-6 levels were associated with higher all-cause mortality in acute HF, no independent association with this outcome was identified at baseline or 30-day measurements. In contrast with prior reports, we did not observe any impact of nesiritide over placebo on serial IL-6 levels.

Elevated plasma endothelin-1 is related to low natriuresis, clinical signs of congestion, and poor outcome in acute heart failure

AIMS

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent vasoconstrictor, which regulates renal and vascular function. We aimed to relate plasma levels of ET-1 with the clinical picture and outcomes in acute heart failure (AHF).

METHODS AND RESULTS

We studied 113 patients with AHF [mean age 65 ± 13 (years), median (upper and lower quartiles) N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, 5422 (2689; 8582) (pg/mL)], in whom plasma levels of ET-1 were serially measured at admission (10.8 ± 5.2), Day 1 (9.5 ± 3.4), and Day 2 (8.9 ± 3.8) (pg/mL). The population was divided into tertiles across baseline ET-1 levels. Patients in the highest ET-1 tertile had predominant clinical signs of peripheral congestion; however, no difference was observed in pulmonary congestion and severity of dyspnoea. They also presented lower spot urine sodium at admission (75 ± 35 vs. 99 ± 43 vs. 108 ± 30), 6 h (84 ± 34 vs. 106 ± 43 vs. 106 ± 35), and Day 1 (75 ± 38 vs. 96 ± 36 vs. 100 ± 35) (mmol/L), when compared with the second and first tertile, respectively (all P < 0.05); furthermore, they received higher doses of intravenous furosemide from Day 2 and had longer intravenous diuretics, as median switch to oral furosemide was 4 (3; 4) vs. 3 (2; 4) vs. 2 (2; 3) (days), respectively, P < 0.05. There was no difference in serum creatinine, urea, and renal injury biomarkers (kidney injury molecule-1, serum cystatin C, and urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin) between the ET-1 tertiles. Higher values of ET-1 measured at each time point were related with a higher risk of 1 year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevation of ET-1 is related to clinical signs of peripheral congestion, low urine sodium excretion, and poor outcome in AHF.

Characteristics and long-term survival of patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension in China

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to report the characteristics and long-term survival of patients with CTEPH treated in three distinct ways: PEA, BPA and medical therapy.

METHODS

Patients diagnosed with CTEPH were included in the registry that was set up in 18 centres from August 2009 to July 2018. The characteristics and survival of patients with CTEPH receiving the different treatments were reported. Prognostic factors were evaluated by Cox regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 593 patients with CTEPH were included. Eighty-one patients were treated with PEA, 61 with BPA and 451 with drugs. The estimated survival rates at 1, 3, 5 and 8 years were, respectively, 95.2%, 84.6%, 73.4% and 66.6% in all patients; 92.6%, 89.6%, 87.5% and 80.2% in surgical patients; and 95.4%, 88.3%, 71.0% and 64.1% in medically treated patients. The estimated survival rates at 1, 3, 5 and 7 years in patients treated with BPA were 96.7%, 88.1%, 70.0% and 70.0%, respectively. For all patients, PEA was an independent predictor of survival. Other independent risk factors were CHD, cardiac index, PVR, big endothelin-1, APE and 6MWD.

CONCLUSION

This is the first multicentre prospective registry reporting baseline characteristics and estimated survival of patients with CTEPH in China. The long-term survival rates are similar to those of patients in the international and Spanish registries. PEA is an independent predictor of survival.

Sympathetic nervous system activation and heart failure: Current state of evidence and the pathophysiology in the light of novel biomarkers

Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by the activation of at least several neurohumoral pathways that have a common role in maintaining cardiac output and adequate perfusion pressure of target organs and tissues. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is upregulated in HF as evident in dysfunctional baroreceptor and chemoreceptor reflexes, circulating and neuronal catecholamine spillover, attenuated parasympathetic response, and augmented sympathetic outflow to the heart, kidneys and skeletal muscles. When these sympathoexcitatory effects on the cardiovascular system are sustained chronically they initiate the vicious circle of HF progression and become associated with cardiomyocyte apoptosis, maladaptive ventricular and vascular remodeling, arrhythmogenesis, and poor prognosis in patients with HF. These detrimental effects of SNS activity on outcomes in HF warrant adequate diagnostic and treatment modalities. Therefore, this review summarizes basic physiological concepts about the interaction of SNS with the cardiovascular system and highlights key pathophysiological mechanisms of SNS derangement in HF. Finally, special emphasis in this review is placed on the integrative and up-to-date overview of diagnostic modalities such as SNS imaging methods and novel laboratory biomarkers that could aid in the assessment of the degree of SNS activation and provide reliable prognostic information among patients with HF.

Plasma big endothelin-1 is an effective predictor for ventricular arrythmias and end-stage events in primary prevention implantable cardioverter- defibrillator indication patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether plasma big endothelin-1 (ET-1) predicts ventricular arrythmias (VAs) and end-stage events in primary prevention implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) indication patigents.

METHODS

In total, 207 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria from Fuwai Hospital between January 2013 and December 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. The cohort was divided into three groups according to baseline plasma big ET-1 tertiles: tertile 1 (< 0.38 pmol/L, n = 68), tertile 2 (0.38-0.7 pmol/L, n = 69), and tertile 3 (> 0.7 pmol/L, n = 70). The primary endpoints were VAs. The secondary endpoints were end-stage events comprising all-cause mortality and heart transplantation.

RESULTS

During a mean follow-up period of 25.6 ± 13.9 months, 38 (18.4%) VAs and 78 (37.7%) end-stage events occurred. Big ET-1 was positively correlated with NYHA class (r = 0.165, P = 0.018), serum creatinine concentration (Scr; r = 0.147, P = 0.034), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP; r = 0.217, P = 0.002), Lg NT-pro BNP (r = 0.463, P < 0.001), left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD; r = 0.234, P = 0.039) and negatively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF; r = -0.181, P = 0.032). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that elevated big ET-1 was associated with increased risk of VAs and end-stage events (P < 0.05). In multivariate Cox regression models, big ET-1 was an independent risk factor for VAs (hazard ratio (HR) = 3.477, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.352-8.940, P = 0.010, tertile 2 vs. tertile 1; HR = 4.112, 95% CI: 1.604-10.540, P = 0.003, tertile 3 vs. tertile 1) and end-stage events (HR = 2.804, 95% CI: 1.354-5.806, P = 0.005, tertile 2 vs. tertile 1; HR = 4.652, 95% CI: 2.288-9.459, P < 0.001, tertile 3 vs. tertile 1).

CONCLUSIONS

In primary prevention ICD indication patients, plasma big ET-1 levels can predict VAs and end-stage events and may facilitate ICD-implantation risk stratification.

Plasma Endothelin-1 and Risk of Death and Hospitalization in Patients Undergoing Maintenance Hemodialysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Endothelin-1 is a potent endothelium-derived vasoconstrictor peptide implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension, congestive heart failure, and inflammation, all of which are critical pathophysiologic features of CKD.

DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, & MEASUREMENTS

To test the hypothesis that plasma endothelin-1 levels are associated with increased risks of mortality and hospitalization in patients with chronic kidney failure, we measured plasma endothelin-1 levels in a prospective cohort of 794 individuals receiving maintenance hemodialysis. The primary outcomes were time to death and time to hospitalization.

RESULTS

The median plasma endothelin-1 level was 2.02 (interquartile range, 1.57-2.71) pg/ml. During a median follow-up period of 28 (interquartile range, 21-29) months, 253 individuals (32%) died and 643 individuals (81%) were hospitalized at least once. In multivariable models adjusted for demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables, individuals in the highest quartile of plasma endothelin-1 had a 2.44-fold higher risk of death (hazard ratio, 2.44; 95% confidence interval, 1.61 to 3.70) and a 1.54-fold higher risk of hospitalization (hazard ratio, 1.54; 95% confidence interval, 1.19 to 1.99) compared with individuals in the lowest quartile. The Harrell C-statistic of the fully adjusted model increased from 0.73 to 0.74 after addition of natural log-transformed plasma endothelin-1 (P<0.001) for all-cause mortality, and increased from 0.608 to 0.614 after addition of natural log-transformed plasma endothelin-1 (P=0.002) for hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher plasma endothelin-1 is associated with adverse clinical events in patients receiving hemodialysis independent of previously described risk factors.

PODCAST

This article contains a podcast at https://www.asn-online.org/media/podcast/CJASN/2020_05_15_CJN11130919.mp3.

Endothelin: 30 Years From Discovery to Therapy

Discovered in 1987 as a potent endothelial cell-derived vasoconstrictor peptide, endothelin-1 (ET-1), the predominant member of the endothelin peptide family, is now recognized as a multifunctional peptide with cytokine-like activity contributing to almost all aspects of physiology and cell function. More than 30 000 scientific articles on endothelin were published over the past 3 decades, leading to the development and subsequent regulatory approval of a new class of therapeutics-the endothelin receptor antagonists (ERAs). This article reviews the history of the discovery of endothelin and its role in genetics, physiology, and disease. Here, we summarize the main clinical trials using ERAs and discuss the role of endothelin in cardiovascular diseases such as arterial hypertension, preecclampsia, coronary atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease (MINOCA) caused by spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD), Takotsubo syndrome, and heart failure. We also discuss how endothelins contributes to diabetic kidney disease and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, pulmonary arterial hypertension, as well as cancer, immune disorders, and allograft rejection (which all involve ET_A autoantibodies), and neurological diseases. The application of ERAs, dual endothelin receptor/angiotensin receptor antagonists (DARAs), selective ET_B agonists, novel biologics such as receptor-targeting antibodies, or immunization against ET_A receptors holds the potential to slow the progression or even reverse chronic noncommunicable diseases. Future clinical studies will show whether targeting endothelin receptors can prevent or reduce disability from disease and improve clinical outcome, quality of life, and survival in patients.

The Expression of BNP, ET-1, and TGF-β1 in Myocardium of Rats with Ventricular Arrhythmias

Ventricular arrhythmia (VA) is a major component of sudden cardiac death (SCD). To investigate the expression of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), endothelin-1 (ET-1), and transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) during VA, we established a rat model of VA induced by BaCl₂ solution through a microinjector pump. PD142893 (ET-1 receptor blocker) and SB431542 (TGF-β1 receptor type I blocker) were used to explore the effect of ET-1 and TGF-β1 on BNP expression in the myocardium after VA. BNP, ET-1, and TGF-β1 in rat myocardium were assayed by western blot and immunohistochemical staining for proteins, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction for mRNAs. We found increased expression of BNP and ET-1 in rat myocardium that was associated with the duration of VA. However, TGF-β1 protein expression remained unchanged. Such early increases in BNP and ET-1 may be attributed to fatal arrhythmias associated with SCD, suggesting these may be novel biomarkers of this disease. After intraperitoneal injection of PD142893 and SB431542, respectively, BNP was downregulated in the myocardium of the left ventricle; however, this was abrogated by co-application of the two inhibitors. These results suggested that both ET-1 and TGF-β1, by specifically binding to their receptors, might be involved in the myocardial synthesis of BNP during VA in vivo.

Peptidomics analysis of umbilical cord blood reveals potential preclinical biomarkers for neonatal respiratory distress syndrome

AIMS

The purpose of this study was to investigate the pathophysiology and discover novel predictors of neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) from a peptidomics perspective.

MAIN METHODS

Comparative profiling of umbilical cord blood from NRDS and control patients was performed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry technology. The underlying biological functions of the differentially expressed peptides (DEPs) were predicted by Gene Ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway analyses. The interactions of DEPs and their precursor proteins were explored by ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA). The sources and stability of DEPs were determined by online databases, including UniProt, SMART and ProtParam tool.

KEY FINDINGS

A total of 251 DEPs were identified, of which 139 peptides were upregulated, and 112 peptides were downregulated (fold change ≥2.0, P < 0.05). These DEPs were predicted to be associated with respiratory failure, atelectasis, and morphogenesis of endothelial cells. These processes indicated that DEPs may play a role in NRDS. Among them, eleven stable DEPs might be used as preclinical biomarkers.

SIGNIFICANCE

Our findings improve our understanding of NRDS and facilitate the discovery of candidate diagnostic biomarkers for NRDS from the perspective of peptidomics.

Prognostic Implications of Changes in Amino-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide in Acute Decompensated Heart Failure: Insights From ASCEND-HF

BACKGROUND

Amino-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NTproBNP) is closely associated with prognosis in acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF). As a result, there has been great interest measuring it during the course of treatment. The prognostic implications in both short-term and follow-up changes in NTproBNP need further clarification.

METHODS

Baseline, 48-72 hour, and 30-day NTproBNP levels were measured in 795 subjects in the ASCEND-HF trial. Multivariable logistic and Cox-proportional hazards models were used to test the association between static, relative, and absolute changes in NTproBNP with outcomes during and after ADHF.

RESULTS

The median NTproBNP at baseline was 5773 (2981-11,579) pg/mL; at 48-72 hours was 3036 (1191-6479) pg/mL; and at 30 days was 2914 (1364-6667) pg/mL. Absolute changes in NTproBNP by 48-72 hours were not associated with 30-day heart failure rehospitalization or mortality (P = .065), relative changes in NTproBNP were nominally associated (P = .046). In contrast, both absolute and relative changes in NTproBNP from baseline to 48-72 hours and to 30 days were closely associated with 180-day mortality (P < .02 for all) with increased discrimination compared to the multivariable models with baseline NTproBNP (P <.05 for models with relative and absolute change at both time points).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the degree of absolute change in NTproBNP was dependent on baseline levels, both short-term absolute and relative changes in NTproBNP were independently and incrementally associated with long-term clinical outcomes. Changes in NTproBNP levels at 30-days were particularly well associated with long-term clinical outcomes.

Endothelin-1 levels and cardiovascular events

Circulating plasma levels of endothelin-1 and related peptides generated during the synthesis of endothelin-1 from its precursor molecule pre-proendothelin-1 have been widely studied as potential risk markers for cardiovascular events. The associations of endothelin-1 with aging, blood pressure, lung function, and chronic kidney disease have been described, as have relations between endothelin-1 levels and evidence of cardiac remodeling, including increased left atrial diameter and increased left ventricular mass. Endothelin-1 has been studied as a predictor of and prognostic marker in coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. The relationship of endothelin-1 levels to mortality in the general population has also been explored. This review examines the current state of knowledge of circulating endothelin-1 levels as they relate to cardiovascular events and prognosis, and explores future directions for research, including using endothelin-1 or related peptide levels to guide personalized treatment regimens and to select patients for primary prevention strategies.

Mechanical ventilation strategies alter cardiovascular biomarkers in an infant rat model

Mechanical ventilation (MV) is routinely used in pediatric general anesthesia and critical care, but may adversely affect the cardiocirculatory system. Biomarkers are increasingly measured to assess cardiovascular status and improve clinical treatment decision-making. As the impact of mechanical ventilation strategies on cardiovascular biomarkers in ventilated infants is largely unknown, we conducted this retrospective study in a healthy in vivo infant rat ventilation model using 14-days old Wistar rats. We hypothesized that 2 h of mechanical ventilation with high and low positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), hyperoxemia, hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and hypocapnia would significantly impact B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and endothelin-1 (ET-1). We found BNP to be driven by both high (9 cmH₂ O) and low (1 cmH₂ O) PEEP compared to ventilated control animals (P < 0.05). VEGF concentrations were associated with high PEEP, hyperoxemia, hypoxemia, and hypocapnia (P < 0.05), whereas ET-1 levels were changed only in response to hypoxemia (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the mode of mechanical ventilation alters plasma biomarker concentrations. Moreover, BNP and VEGF might serve as surrogate parameters for ventilation induced cardiovascular compromise and lung tissue damage. Furthermore, our data support the hypothesis, that sudden onset of hyperoxemia may trigger a quick VEGF release as a possible cellular survival reflex.

Redefining biomarkers in heart failure

Heart failure (HF) is the end result of many different cardiac and non-cardiac abnormalities leading to a complex clinical entity. In this view, the use of biomarkers in HF should be deeply reconsidered; indeed, the same biomarker may carry a different significance in patients with preserved or reduced EF. The aim of this review is to reconsider the role of biomarkers in HF, based on the different clinical characteristics of this syndrome. The role of cardiac and non-cardiac biomarkers will be reviewed with respect of the different clinical manifestations of this syndrome.

Multi-organ dysfunction/injury on admission identifies acute heart failure patients at high risk of poor outcome

BACKGROUND

Clinical consequences of an interplay between dysfunction/injury of different end-organs in acute heart failure (AHF) remain unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In 284 consecutive AHF patients, end-organ dysfunction/injury was defined as cardiac [troponin I level above the upper reference limit (URL, > 0.056 ng/mL)], kidney (estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m² ), and liver [at least one of the following: aspartate transaminase (AST)/alanine transaminase (ALT) > 3 times the URL (> 114 IU/L and > 105 IU/L for AST and ALT, respectively), bilirubin above the URL (> 1.3 mg/mL), albumin below the lower reference limit (< 3.5 mg/dL)]. The primary endpoints were early (within first 48 h) in-hospital worsening of heart failure and 1-year all-cause mortality. On admission, cardiac, kidney, liver dysfunction/injury were present in 38%, 50%, and 54% of patients, respectively. Patients were classified as having 0, 1, 2, or 3 organ injury/dysfunction (17%, 36%, 35%, and 12% of patients, respectively). Baseline clinical characteristics and co-morbidity profile were similar across groups. Patients with three organ dysfunction/injury had the worst 1-year survival rate [46%; hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) vs. patients without organ dysfunction: 6.75 (2.52-18.13), those with two (67%; HR 3.54, 95% CI 1.38-9.08), one (84%; HR 1.58, 95% CI 0.58-4.30), or no organ dysfunction/injury (90%); P < 0.01]. Worsening of heart failure was more frequent in patients with three and two vs. those with one or no organ dysfunction/injury (37% vs. 38% vs. 23% vs. 21%, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with AHF, dysfunction/injury of > 1 end-organ dysfunction/injury identifies patients at the highest risk of poor outcomes.

Patterns of dyspnoea onset in patients with acute heart failure: clinical and prognostic implications

Aims

Despite attempts to improve the management of patients with acute heart failure (HF), virtually all therapeutic agents investigated in large clinical trials failed to show any consistent reduction in mortality and morbidity. Complexity of the clinical syndrome of acute HF seems to be likely an underlying explanation. Traditionally, clinical trials studied mixed patient populations with acute HF, and only recently, better clinical characterization of patients has been proposed. Dyspnoea is the most common presenting symptom related to hospital admission for acute HF. Whether in patients with acute HF, the pattern of symptoms onset preceding hospital admission is associated with clinical characteristics, and the outcomes have not yet been established.

Methods and results

We investigated 137 patients (mean age: 65 ± 13 years; 80% men) hospitalized due to acute HF with dyspnoea as major reported symptom, who were divided according to the time of its onset into those with acute (n = 98) vs. subacute (n = 39) onset (i.e. within 7 days vs. >7 days preceding hospital admission, respectively). On admission, the former group presented higher blood pressure (138 ± 33 vs. 121 ± 32 mmHg), more often moderate–severe pulmonary congestion (33 vs. 8%), and lower bilirubin level [1.07 (0.72–1.60) vs. 1.27 (0.87–2.06); P < 0.05 in all comparisons]. There were no other differences in baseline clinical characteristics and laboratory indices. Higher percentage of patients with an acute dyspnoea onset reported marked/moderate dyspnoea relief after 6 (18% vs. 7%), 24 (59% vs. 24%), and 48 h (80% vs. 46% assessed as an improvement of at least 5 points in self‐reported 10‐point Likert scale; P < 0.05 in all time points). In patients with an acute onset of dyspnoea after 48 h, a decrease of N‐terminal pro BNP was more frequently observed (83% vs. 65%), and the levels of endothelin‐1 were more reduced [−1.1 (−2.9–0.03) vs 0.4 (−2.2–1.4); all P < 0.05]. Patients with acute onset experienced less in‐hospital HF worsening (13% vs. 40%, P = 0.001), and 1 year cardiovascular mortality was significantly lower (20% vs. 41%, P = 0.01). On the multivariable analysis, subacute pattern of dyspnoea was independent predictor of 12 month cardiovascular mortality in patients with acute HF after adjusting for other prognostic factors: systolic blood pressure, urea, and HF de novo [hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 2.32 (1.13–4.75), P = 0.02].

Conclusions

In patients with acute HF, the pattern of symptoms onset is associated with baseline differences in clinical characteristics, biomarker profile, response to standard treatment, and the long‐term outcomes. This is relevant information for planning future clinical trials.

Pathophysiology of acute heart failure syndrome: a knowledge gap

Although much remains unknown regarding the pathophysiology of acute heart failure (AHF), precipitating events are thought to involve a complex set of interactions between the heart, kidneys, and peripheral vasculature. In addition to these interactions, which are considered the primary abnormalities in patients with AHF, several other organ systems may also be affected and contribute to disease progression. Currently available scientific literature suggests that the natural history and pathophysiology of AHF consists of two phases: (1) an "initiation phase" involving a series of triggering events, and (2) an "amplification phase," in which multiple mechanisms contribute to worsening HF and exacerbate end-organ damage. Biomarkers of cardiac, renal, pulmonary, and other organ function have been identified during episodes of AHF, including brain natriuretic peptide, troponin I, and troponin T; biomarkers associated with AHF have proven to be useful tools for studying the pathophysiology of the syndrome, predicting clinical outcomes, and identifying patient management strategies. Despite considerable advances in recent years, AHF continues to be a leading cause of hospitalization and death in patients with chronic HF. Moreover, AHF remains a major healthcare issue exacting a considerable cost burden. Addressing this ongoing unmet need requires prioritizing efforts to better understand the natural history and pathophysiology of AHF; only then can targeted therapies be developed to prevent rehospitalization in patients with AHF, or at least alter the trajectory of disease progression toward improved clinical outcomes.

The association between plasma big endothelin-1 levels at admission and long-term outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The prognostic role of big endothelin-1 (ET-1) in atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear. We aimed to assess its predictive value in patients with AF.

METHODS

A total of 716 AF patients were enrolled and divided into two groups based on the optimal cut-off value of big ET-1 in predicting all-cause mortality. The primary outcomes were all-cause mortality and major adverse events (MAEs). Cox regression analysis and net reclassification improvement (NRI) analysis were performed to assess the predictive value of big ET-1 on outcomes.

RESULTS

With the optimal cut-off value of 0.55 pmol/L, 326 patients were classified into the high big ET-1 levels group. Cardiac dysfunction and left atrial dilation were factors related to high big ET-1 levels. During a median follow-up of 3 years, patients with big ET-1 ≥ 0.55 pmol/L had notably higher risk of all-cause death (44.8% vs. 11.5%, p < 0.001), MAEs (51.8% vs. 17.4%, p < 0.001), cardiovascular death, major bleeding, and tended to have higher thromboembolic risk. After adjusting for confounding factors, high big ET-1 level was an independent predictor of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 2.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.46-3.05; p < 0.001), MAEs (HR 2.05, 95% CI 1.50-2.80; p = 0.001), and cardiovascular death (HR 2.44, 95% CI 1.52-3.93; p < 0.001). NRI analysis showed that big ET-1 allowed a significant improvement of 0.32 in the accuracy of predicting the risk of both all-cause mortality and MAEs.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated big ET-1 levels is an independent predictor of long-term all-cause mortality, MAEs, and cardiovascular death in patients with AF.

Increased blood lactate is prevalent and identifies poor prognosis in patients with acute heart failure without overt peripheral hypoperfusion

AIMS

Lactate is produced by anaerobic metabolism and may reflect inadequate tissue perfusion in conditions such as acute heart failure (AHF). We evaluated the prevalence and clinical significance of elevated blood lactate on admission in patients with AHF.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We enrolled 237 patients with AHF (mean age 67 ± 12 years; 70% men) presenting without overt clinical evidence of peripheral hypoperfusion ('warm haemodynamic profile'). Median (upper and lower quartiles) blood lactate on admission was 1.8 (1.5; 2.4) mmol/L; 103 (43%) patients had an elevated blood lactate (≥2 mmol/L). Patients with an elevated lactate had higher blood high-sensitivity troponin I [15.4 (8.5; 26.1) vs. 9.9 (4.3; 19.6) pg/mL], aspartate aminotransferase [28 (20; 44) vs 24 (19; 36) IU/L] and endothelin-1 (12.1 ± 6.2 vs. 9.3 ± 3.9 pg/mL) (all P < 0.05). In this group plasma concentration of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin increased during the first 48 h, whereas values fell for those with normal baseline lactate [1.9 (-3.2; 9.7) vs. -1.3 (-13.9; 5.6) μg/dL; P < 0.05). One-year mortality was higher amongst patients with an elevated blood lactate (36% vs. 21%; P < 0.05). After adjustment for other well-established prognostic variables, blood lactate on admission predicted poor outcome (hazard ratio 1.24, 95% confidence interval 1.08-1.41; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

An elevated blood lactate on admission is common in AHF patients without overt clinical evidence of peripheral hypoperfusion and is associated with markers of organ dysfunction/damage and a worse prognosis.

Organ dysfunction, injury and failure in acute heart failure: from pathophysiology to diagnosis and management. A review on behalf of the Acute Heart Failure Committee of the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

Organ injury and impairment are commonly observed in patients with acute heart failure (AHF), and congestion is an essential pathophysiological mechanism of impaired organ function. Congestion is the predominant clinical profile in most patients with AHF; a smaller proportion presents with peripheral hypoperfusion or cardiogenic shock. Hypoperfusion further deteriorates organ function. The injury and dysfunction of target organs (i.e. heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, intestine, brain) in the setting of AHF are associated with increased risk for mortality. Improvement in organ function after decongestive therapies has been associated with a lower risk for post-discharge mortality. Thus, the prevention and correction of organ dysfunction represent a therapeutic target of interest in AHF and should be evaluated in clinical trials. Treatment strategies that specifically prevent, reduce or reverse organ dysfunction remain to be identified and evaluated to determine if such interventions impact mortality, morbidity and patient-centred outcomes. This paper reflects current understanding among experts of the presentation and management of organ impairment in AHF and suggests priorities for future research to advance the field.