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Hattori Y, Hattori K, Ishii K, Kobayashi M. Challenging and target-based shifting strategies for heart failure treatment: An update from the last decades. Biochem Pharmacol 2024; 224:116232. [PMID: 38648905 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2024.116232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is a major global health problem afflicting millions worldwide. Despite the significant advances in therapies and prevention, HF still carries very high morbidity and mortality, requiring enormous healthcare-related expenditure, and the search for new weapons goes on. Following initial treatment strategies targeting inotropism and congestion, attention has focused on offsetting the neurohormonal overactivation and three main therapies, including angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonists, β-adrenoceptor antagonists, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, have been the foundation of standard treatment for patients with HF. Recently, a paradigm shift, including angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor, sodium glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor, and ivabradine, has been added. Moreover, soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, elamipretide, and omecamtiv mecarbil have come out as a next-generation therapeutic agent for patients with HF. Although these pharmacologic therapies have been significantly successful in relieving symptoms, there is still no complete cure for HF. We may be currently entering a new era of treatment for HF with animal experiments and human clinical trials assessing the value of antibody-based immunotherapy and gene therapy as a novel therapeutic strategy. Such tempting therapies still have some challenges to be addressed but may become a weighty option for treatment of HF. This review article will compile the paradigm shifts in HF treatment over the past dozen years or so and illustrate current landscape of antibody-based immunotherapy and gene therapy as a new therapeutic algorithm for patients with HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuichi Hattori
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Tobetsu, Japan; Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan.
| | - Kohshi Hattori
- Department of Anesthesiology, Center Hospital of the National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kuniaki Ishii
- Department of Pharmacology, Yamagata University Faculty of Medicine, Yamagata, Japan
| | - Masanobu Kobayashi
- Advanced Research Promotion Center, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, Tobetsu, Japan
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2
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Wang X, Zhao X, Wang X, Cao L, Lu B, Wang Z, Zhang W, Ti Y, Zhong M. Effect of levosimendan on ventricular remodelling in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction: a meta-analysis. ESC Heart Fail 2024; 11:1352-1376. [PMID: 38419326 PMCID: PMC11098670 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.14714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Heart failure is the final stage of several cardiovascular diseases, and the key to effectively treating heart failure is to reverse or delay ventricular remodelling. Levosimendan is a novel inotropic and vasodilator agent used in heart failure, whereas the impact of levosimendan on ventricular remodelling is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the impact of levosimendan on ventricular remodelling in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction. Electronic databases were searched to identify eligible studies. A total of 66 randomized controlled trials involving 7968 patients were included. Meta-analysis results showed that levosimendan increased left ventricular ejection fraction [mean difference (MD) = 3.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) (2.88, 4.35), P < 0.00001] and stroke volume [MD = 6.59, 95% CI (3.22, 9.96), P = 0.0001] and significantly reduced left ventricular end-systolic volume [standard mean difference (SMD) = -0.52, 95% CI (-0.67, -0.37), P < 0.00001], left ventricular end-diastolic volume index [SMD = -1.24, 95% CI (-1.61, -0.86), P < 0.00001], and left ventricular end-systolic volume index [SMD = -1.06, 95% CI (-1.43, -0.70), P < 0.00001]. In terms of biomarkers, levosimendan significantly reduced the level of brain natriuretic peptide [SMD = -1.08, 95% CI (-1.60, -0.56), P < 0.0001], N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide [SMD = -0.99, 95% CI (-1.41, -0.56), P < 0.00001], and interleukin-6 [SMD = -0.61, 95% CI (-0.86, -0.35), P < 0.00001]. Meanwhile, levosimendan may increase the incidence of hypotension [risk ratio (RR) = 1.24, 95% CI (1.12, 1.39), P < 0.0001], hypokalaemia [RR = 1.57, 95% CI (1.08, 2.28), P = 0.02], headache [RR = 1.89, 95% CI (1.50, 2.39), P < 0.00001], atrial fibrillation [RR = 1.31, 95% CI (1.12, 1.52), P = 0.0005], and premature ventricular complexes [RR = 1.86, 95% CI (1.27, 2.72), P = 0.001]. In addition, levosimendan reduced all-cause mortality [RR = 0.83, 95% CI (0.74, 0.94), P = 0.002]. In conclusion, our study found that levosimendan might reverse ventricular remodelling when applied in patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction, especially in patients undergoing cardiac surgery, decompensated heart failure, and septic shock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wang
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of CardiologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityChina
| | - Xiu‐Zhi Zhao
- Department of CardiologyPeople's Hospital of Lixia District of JinanJinanShandongChina
| | - Xi‐Wen Wang
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of CardiologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityChina
| | - Lu‐Ying Cao
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of CardiologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityChina
| | - Bin Lu
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of CardiologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityChina
| | - Zhi‐Hao Wang
- Department of Geriatric MedicineShandong Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Proteomics, Qilu Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong UniversityJinanChina
| | - Wei Zhang
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of CardiologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityChina
| | - Yun Ti
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of CardiologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityChina
| | - Ming Zhong
- National Key Laboratory for Innovation and Transformation of Luobing Theory, The Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Remodeling and Function Research, Chinese Ministry of Education, Chinese National Health Commission and Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Department of CardiologyQilu Hospital of Shandong UniversityChina
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3
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Ribeiro E, Vale N. Understanding the Clinical Use of Levosimendan and Perspectives on its Future in Oncology. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1296. [PMID: 37759695 PMCID: PMC10526140 DOI: 10.3390/biom13091296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug repurposing, also known as repositioning or reprofiling, has emerged as a promising strategy to accelerate drug discovery and development. This approach involves identifying new medical indications for existing approved drugs, harnessing the extensive knowledge of their bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy. Levosimendan, a calcium sensitizer initially approved for heart failure, has been repurposed for oncology due to its multifaceted pharmacodynamics, including phosphodiesterase 3 inhibition, nitric oxide production and reduction of reactive oxygen species. Studies have demonstrated that levosimendan inhibits cancer cell migration and sensitizes hypoxic cells to radiation. Moreover, it exerts organ-protective effects by activating mitochondrial potassium channels. Combining levosimendan with traditional anticancer agents such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) has shown a synergistic effect in bladder cancer cells, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic approach. This drug repurposing strategy offers a cost-effective and time-efficient solution for developing new treatments, ultimately contributing to the advancement of cancer therapeutics and improved outcomes for patients. Further investigations and clinical trials are warranted to validate the effectiveness of levosimendan in oncology and explore its potential benefits in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Ribeiro
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- OncoPharma Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Community Medicine, Health Information and Decision (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
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4
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Lim S, Shin S, Sung Y, Lee HE, Kim KH, Song JY, Lee GH, Aziz H, Lukianenko N, Kang DM, Boesen N, Jeong H, Abdildinova A, Lee J, Yu BY, Lim SM, Lee JS, Ryu H, Pae AN, Kim YK. Levosimendan inhibits disulfide tau oligomerization and ameliorates tau pathology in Tau P301L-BiFC mice. Exp Mol Med 2023; 55:612-627. [PMID: 36914856 PMCID: PMC10073126 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-023-00959-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Tau oligomers play critical roles in tau pathology and are responsible for neuronal cell death and transmitting the disease in the brain. Accordingly, preventing tau oligomerization has become an important therapeutic strategy to treat tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease. However, progress has been slow because detecting tau oligomers in the cellular context is difficult. Working toward tau-targeted drug discovery, our group has developed a tau-BiFC platform to monitor and quantify tau oligomerization. By using the tau-BiFC platform, we screened libraries with FDA-approved and passed phase I drugs and identified levosimendan as a potent anti-tau agent that inhibits tau oligomerization. 14C-isotope labeling of levosimendan revealed that levosimendan covalently bound to tau cysteines, directly inhibiting disulfide-linked tau oligomerization. In addition, levosimendan disassembles tau oligomers into monomers, rescuing neurons from aggregation states. In comparison, the well-known anti-tau agents methylene blue and LMTM failed to protect neurons from tau-mediated toxicity, generating high-molecular-weight tau oligomers. Levosimendan displayed robust potency against tau oligomerization and rescued cognitive declines induced by tauopathy in the TauP301L-BiFC mouse model. Our data present the potential of levosimendan as a disease-modifying drug for tauopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungsu Lim
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Seulgi Shin
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonsik Sung
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ha Eun Lee
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyu Hyeon Kim
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Yeon Song
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Gwan-Ho Lee
- Advanced Analysis Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hira Aziz
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Nataliia Lukianenko
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Min Kang
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.,Department of Life Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Nicolette Boesen
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.,Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyeanjeong Jeong
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Aizhan Abdildinova
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Junghee Lee
- Boston University Alzheimer's disease Research Center and VA Boston Health care System, Boston, MA, 02130, USA
| | - Byung-Yong Yu
- Advanced Analysis Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Min Lim
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun-Seok Lee
- Department of Pharmacology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Ryu
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.,Boston University Alzheimer's disease Research Center and Department of Neurology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02118, USA
| | - Ae Nim Pae
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
| | - Yun Kyung Kim
- Center for Brain Disorders, Brain Science Institute, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea. .,Division of Bio-Medical Science & Technology, KIST School, Korea University of Science and Technology (UST), Seoul, 02792, Republic of Korea.
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5
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Zhang LL, Chen GH, Tang RJ, Xiong YY, Pan Q, Jiang WY, Gong ZT, Chen C, Li XS, Yang YJ. Levosimendan Reverses Cardiac Malfunction and Cardiomyocyte Ferroptosis During Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction via Connexin 43 Signaling Activation. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2023:10.1007/s10557-023-07441-4. [PMID: 36881213 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-023-07441-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In recent decades, the occurrence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has outweighed that of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction by degrees, but few drugs have been demonstrated to improve long-term clinical outcomes in patients with HFpEF. Levosimendan, a calcium-sensitizing cardiotonic agent, improves decompensated heart failure clinically. However, the anti-HFpEF activities of levosimendan and underlying molecular mechanisms are unclear. METHODS In this study, a double-hit HFpEF C57BL/6N mouse model was established, and levosimendan (3 mg/kg/week) was administered to HFpEF mice aged 13 to 17 weeks. Different biological experimental techniques were used to verify the protective effects of levosimendan against HFpEF. RESULTS After four weeks of drug treatment, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, cardiac hypertrophy, pulmonary congestion, and exercise exhaustion were significantly alleviated. Junction proteins in the endothelial barrier and between cardiomyocytes were also improved by levosimendan. Among the gap junction channel proteins, connexin 43, which was especially highly expressed in cardiomyocytes, mediated mitochondrial protection. Furthermore, levosimendan reversed mitochondrial malfunction in HFpEF mice, as evidenced by increased mitofilin and decreased ROS, superoxide anion, NOX4, and cytochrome C levels. Interestingly, after levosimendan administration, myocardial tissue from HFpEF mice showed restricted ferroptosis, indicated by an increased GSH/GSSG ratio; upregulated GPX4, xCT, and FSP-1 expression; and reduced intracellular ferrous ion, MDA, and 4-HNE levels. CONCLUSION Regular long-term levosimendan administration can benefit cardiac function in a mouse model of HFpEF with metabolic syndromes (namely, obesity and hypertension) by activating connexin 43-mediated mitochondrial protection and sequential ferroptosis inhibition in cardiomyocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Gui-Hao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Rui-Jie Tang
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450000, China
| | - Yu-Yan Xiong
- Department of Cardiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Qi Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Wen-Yang Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Zhao-Ting Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Cheng Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Xiao-Song Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China
| | - Yue-Jin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Department of Cardiology, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100037, China.
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6
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Masarone D, Kittleson M, Pollesello P, Tedford RJ, Pacileo G. Use of Levosimendan in Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension: What is the Current Evidence? Drugs 2023; 83:195-201. [PMID: 36652192 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-022-01833-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension, defined as an increase in mean arterial pressure > 20 mmHg, is a chronic and progressive condition with high mortality and morbidity. Drug therapy of patients with pulmonary hypertension is based on the distinctive pathophysiologic aspect that characterizes the different groups. However, recently, levosimendan, a calcium-sensitizing agent with inotropic, pulmonary vasodilator, and cardioprotective properties, has been shown to be an effective and safe therapeutic strategy for patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (in addition to specific drugs) and pulmonary hypertension associated with left heart disease (as possible treatment). This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current evidence on the use of levosimendan in patients with pulmonary hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Masarone
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital Naples, Via Leonardo Bianchi 1, 80100, Naples, Italy.
| | - Michelle Kittleson
- Department of Cardiology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Smidt Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Piero Pollesello
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, USA
| | | | - Giuseppe Pacileo
- Heart Failure Unit, Department of Cardiology, AORN dei Colli-Monaldi Hospital Naples, Via Leonardo Bianchi 1, 80100, Naples, Italy
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7
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Burkhoff D, Rich S, Pollesello P, Papp Z. Levosimendan-induced venodilation is mediated by opening of potassium channels. ESC Heart Fail 2021; 8:4454-4464. [PMID: 34716759 PMCID: PMC8712848 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Unique vascular responses adhere to the cardiovascular efficacy of the inodilator levosimendan. In particular, selective venodilation appears to explain its clinical benefit during pulmonary hypertension complicated by heart failure with preserved ejection fraction. Vasodilators increase vessel diameter in various parts of the vascular system to different degrees and thereby influence blood pressure, its distribution, and organ perfusion depending on their mechanisms of action. Levosimendan and its long‐lived active metabolite OR‐1896 mobilize a set of vasodilatory mechanisms, that is, the opening of the ATP‐sensitive K+ channels and other K+ channels on top of a highly selective inhibition of the phosphodiesterase III enzyme. A vessel‐specific combination of the above vasodilator mechanisms—in concert with cardiac effects and cardiovascular reflex regulations—illustrates the pharmacological profile of levosimendan in various cardiovascular disorders. While levosimendan has been known to be an inotrope, its properties as an activator of ATP‐sensitive K+ channels have gone largely ignored with respect to clinical applications. Here, we provide a summary of what is known about the ATP‐sensitive K+ channel properties in preclinical studies and now for the first time, its ATP‐sensitive K+ channel properties in a clinical trial.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stuart Rich
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - Zoltán Papp
- Division of Clinical Physiology, Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, 22 Móricz Zsigmond Str., Debrecen, H-4032, Hungary.,HAS-UD Vascular Biology and Myocardial Pathophysiology Research Group, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
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8
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Liu DH, Ning YL, Lei YY, Chen J, Liu YY, Lin XF, Yang ZQ, Xian SX, Chen WT. Levosimendan versus dobutamine for sepsis-induced cardiac dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20333. [PMID: 34645892 PMCID: PMC8514594 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99716-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Levosimendan and dobutamine are extensively used to treat sepsis-associated cardiovascular failure in ICU. Nevertheless, the role and mechanism of levosimendan in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy remains unclear. Moreover, previous studies on whether levosimendan is superior to dobutamine are still controversial. More importantly, these studies did not take changes (before-after comparison to the baseline) in quantitative parameters such as ejection fraction into account with the baseline level. Here, we aimed to determine the pros and cons of the two medicines by assessing the changes in cardiac function and blood lactate, mortality, with the standardized mean difference used as a summary statistic. Relevant studies were obtained by a thorough and disciplined literature search in several notable academic databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane Library and Embase until November 2020. Outcomes included changes in cardiac function, lactic acid, mortality and length of hospital stay. A total of 6 randomized controlled trials were included in this study, including 192 patients. Compared with dobutamine, patients treated with levosimendan had a greater improvement of cardiac index (ΔCI) (random effects, SMD = 0.90 [0.20,1.60]; I2 = 76%, P < 0.01) and left ventricular stroke work index (ΔLVSWI) (random effects, SMD = 1.56 [0.90,2.21]; I2 = 65%, P = 0.04), a significant decrease of blood lactate (Δblood lactate) (random effects, MD = - 0.79 [- 1.33, - 0.25]; I2 = 68%, P < 0.01) at 24-h after drug intervention, respectively. There was no significant difference between levosimendan and dobutamine on all-cause mortality in ICU (fixed effect, OR = 0.72 [0.39,1.33]; I2 = 0%, P = 0.99). We combine effect sizes related to different measurement parameters to evaluate cardiac function, which implied that septic patients with myocardial dysfunction might have a better improvement of cardiac function by levosimendan than dobutamine (random effects, SMD = 1.05 [0.69,1.41]; I2 = 67%, P < 0.01). This study suggested a significant improvement of CI, LVSWI, and decrease of blood lactate in septic patients with myocardial dysfunction in ICU after 24-h administration of levosimendan than dobutamine. However, the administration of levosimendan has neither an impact on mortality nor LVEF. Septic patients with myocardial dysfunction may partly benefit from levosimendan than dobutamine, mainly embodied in cardiac function improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Hua Liu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China
- The First Clinical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Yi-Le Ning
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China
- Ling-Nan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Yan-Yan Lei
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China
- The First Clinical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China
| | - Yan-Yan Liu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Xin-Feng Lin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China
| | - Zhong-Qi Yang
- Ling-Nan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Shao-Xiang Xian
- Ling-Nan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China.
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China.
| | - Wei-Tao Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 16, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China.
- The First Clinical School, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, China.
- Ling-Nan Medical Research Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, No. 12, Jichang Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, 510405, Guangdong Province, China.
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Chan CC, Lee KT, Ho WJ, Chan YH, Chu PH. Levosimendan use in patients with acute heart failure and reduced ejection fraction with or without severe renal dysfunction in critical cardiac care units: a multi-institution database study. Ann Intensive Care 2021; 11:27. [PMID: 33555483 PMCID: PMC7869075 DOI: 10.1186/s13613-021-00810-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute heart failure is a life-threatening clinical condition. Levosimendan is an effective inotropic agent used to maintain cardiac output, but its usage is limited by the lack of evidence in patients with severely abnormal renal function. Therefore, we analyzed data of patients with acute heart failure with and without abnormal renal function to examine the effects of levosimendan. Methods We performed this retrospective cohort study using data from the Chang Gung Research Database (CGRD) of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH). Patients admitted for heart failure with LVEF ≤ 40% between January 2013 and December 2018 who received levosimendan or dobutamine in the critical cardiac care units (CCU) were identified. Patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) were excluded. Outcomes of interest were mortality at 30, 90, and 180 days after the cohort entry date. Results There were no significant differences in mortality rate at 30, 90, and 180 days after the cohort entry date between the levosimendan and dobutamine groups, or between subgroups of patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ≥ 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 and eGFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 or on dialysis. The results were consistent before and after propensity score matching. Conclusions Levosimendan did not increase short- or long-term mortality rates in critical patients with acute heart failure and reduced ejection fraction compared to dobutamine, regardless of their renal function. An eGFR less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 was not necessarily considered a contraindication for levosimendan in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cze-Ci Chan
- Department of Cardiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Tso Lee
- Department of Cardiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Wan-Jing Ho
- Department of Cardiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsin Chan
- Department of Cardiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Hsien Chu
- Department of Cardiology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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Dogan MF, Yildiz O, Arslan SO, Ulusoy KG. Potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle: a pathophysiological and pharmacological perspective. Fundam Clin Pharmacol 2019; 33:504-523. [PMID: 30851197 DOI: 10.1111/fcp.12461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 02/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Potassium (K+ ) ion channel activity is an important determinant of vascular tone by regulating cell membrane potential (MP). Activation of K+ channels leads to membrane hyperpolarization and subsequently vasodilatation, while inhibition of the channels causes membrane depolarization and then vasoconstriction. So far five distinct types of K+ channels have been identified in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs): Ca+2 -activated K+ channels (BKC a ), voltage-dependent K+ channels (KV ), ATP-sensitive K+ channels (KATP ), inward rectifier K+ channels (Kir ), and tandem two-pore K+ channels (K2 P). The activity and expression of vascular K+ channels are changed during major vascular diseases such as hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, atherosclerosis, and diabetes mellitus. The defective function of K+ channels is commonly associated with impaired vascular responses and is likely to become as a result of changes in K+ channels during vascular diseases. Increased K+ channel function and expression may also help to compensate for increased abnormal vascular tone. There are many pharmacological and genotypic studies which were carried out on the subtypes of K+ channels expressed in variable amounts in different vascular beds. Modulation of K+ channel activity by molecular approaches and selective drug development may be a novel treatment modality for vascular dysfunction in the future. This review presents the basic properties, physiological functions, pathophysiological, and pharmacological roles of the five major classes of K+ channels that have been determined in VSMCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammed Fatih Dogan
- Department of Pharmacology, Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Bilkent, Ankara, 06010, Turkey
| | - Oguzhan Yildiz
- Department of Pharmacology, Gulhane Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Etlik, Ankara, 06170, Turkey
| | - Seyfullah Oktay Arslan
- Department of Pharmacology, Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Bilkent, Ankara, 06010, Turkey
| | - Kemal Gokhan Ulusoy
- Department of Pharmacology, Gulhane Faculty of Medicine, University of Health Sciences, Etlik, Ankara, 06170, Turkey
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11
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Kırış T, Avcı E. Short-term effects of levosimendan on strain/strain rate markers in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2018; 46:527-532. [PMID: 30229927 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.22627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 05/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/21/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether repetitive measurements of speckle tracking echocardiography (STE)-derived strain (S) and strain rate (SR) could reveal changes in left ventricular function in patients with nonischemic dilated cardiomyopathy treated with levosimendan. METHODS We included 22 consecutive patients (age 53 ±12 years) with an ejection fraction (EF) below 35% and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III-IV symptoms that required intravenous inotropic support despite optimal medical therapy. The absence of any occlusive coronary artery disease was identified via previous coronary angiography in all patients. Echocardiographic variables, including strain/strain rate, and NYHA functional class, were evaluated before and after levosimendan infusion at the 72nd hour and one month. RESULTS The strain and strain rate values for both left and right ventricles were observed to be increased NYHA functional class and left ventricular EF (P <.05). CONCLUSION STE can successfully completed conventional echocardiography in the evaluation of patients with decompensated heart failure who were treated with levosimendan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuncay Kırış
- Department of Cardiology, Izmir Katip Celebi University Ataturk Training and Research Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Eyüp Avcı
- Cardiology Department, Balikesir University Faculty of Medicine, Balikesir, Turkey
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12
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Zhou S, Zhang L, Li J. Effect of levosimendan in patients with acute decompensated heart failure. Herz 2018; 44:630-636. [DOI: 10.1007/s00059-018-4693-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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13
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Gong B, Li Z, Yat Wong PC. Levosimendan Treatment for Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2015; 29:1415-25. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2015.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Alvarez Escudero J, Calvo Vecino JM, Veiras S, García R, González A. Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG). Recommendations on strategy for reducing risk of heart failure patients requiring noncardiac surgery: reducing risk of heart failure patients in noncardiac surgery. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 62:359-419. [PMID: 26164471 DOI: 10.1016/j.redar.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J Alvarez Escudero
- Professor and Head of the Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, La Coruña, Spain
| | - J M Calvo Vecino
- Professor and Head of the Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, La Coruña, Spain; Associated Professor and Head of the Department of Anesthesiology, Infanta Leonor University Hospital, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - S Veiras
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital, Santiago de Compostela, La Coruña, Spain
| | - R García
- Department of Anesthesiology, Puerta del Mar University Hospital. Cadiz, Spain
| | - A González
- Department of Anesthesiology, Puerta de Hierro University Hospital. Madrid, Spain
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Abstract
Acute heart failure (AHF) emerges as a major and growing epidemiological concern with high morbidity and mortality rates. Current therapies in patients with acute heart failure rely on different strategies. Patients with hypotension, hypoperfusion, or shock require inotropic support, whereas diuretics and vasodilators are recommended in patients with systemic or pulmonary congestion. Traditionally inotropic agents, referred to as Ca2+ mobilizers load the cardiomyocyte with Ca2+ and thereby increase oxygen consumption and risk for arrhythmias. These limitations of traditional inotropes may be avoided by sarcomere targeted agents. Direct activation of the cardiac sarcomere may be achieved by either sensitizing the cardiac myofilaments to Ca2+ or activating directly the cardiac myosin. In this review, we focus on sarcomere targeted inotropic agents, emphasizing their mechanisms of action and overview the most relevant clinical considerations.
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Palmerini E, Söderberg S, Mondillo S, Favilli R, Lunghetti S. Effects of levosimendan on heart failure in normotensive patients: does loading dose matter? ACUTE CARDIAC CARE 2015; 17:14-9. [PMID: 25806830 DOI: 10.3109/17482941.2015.1005102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levosimendan is a calcium sensitizer and K(+)-ATP channel opener with inotropic and vasodilatatory effects irrespective of myocardial oxygen consumption, used for treatment of heart failure (HF). A loading dose is usually given by infusion for 12 h; however, profound lowering of blood pressure often disrupts or prolongs the infusion. The aim of this study was to assess clinical, biochemical and myocardial differences between different regimes of levosimendan therapy, with or without loading dose, and compared to standard therapy in heart failure. METHODS Fifty-seven patients (mean age ± SD: 60.9 ± 9.3 years, 45 males) with HF, New York Heart Association (NYHA) III-IV, reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) were included. Twenty patients (NB group) were given levosimendan without loading dose, 14 patients (B group) were given levosimendan with loading dose, and 23 patients (C group) were given standard therapy. Clinical, biochemical and echocardiographic characteristics at baseline and one week after treatment were evaluated. RESULTS Groups were similar at baseline. After one week NHYA class (P < 0.001), NT pro-BNP (P < 0.001), LVEF (P = 0.045), E/A (P = 0.048) E/e' (P < 0.001), and PAPs (P < 0.001) decreased. DT (P = 0.011) and TAPSE (P = 0.035) increased in all groups. CONCLUSIONS Levosimendan, as well as standard therapy, improves myocardial function and symptoms of HF, irrespective of the loading dose administration. Treatment options for patients with end-stage heart failure refractory to conventional medical therapy are limited. Inotropic drugs play an important role in heart failure (HF).
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Palmerini
- Department of Cardiovascular Diseases, Siena University Hospital , Siena , Italy
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18
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Effects of levosimendan on hemodynamics, local cerebral blood flow, neuronal injury, and neuroinflammation after asphyctic cardiac arrest in rats. Crit Care Med 2014; 42:e410-9. [PMID: 24633188 DOI: 10.1097/ccm.0000000000000308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite advances in cardiac arrest treatment, high mortality and morbidity rates after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation are still a major clinical relevant problem. The post cardiac arrest syndrome subsumes myocardial dysfunction, impaired microcirculation, systemic inflammatory response, and neurological impairment. The calcium-sensitizer levosimendan was able to improve myocardial function and initial resuscitation success after experimental cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We hypothesized that levosimendan exerts beneficial effects on cerebral blood flow, neuronal injury, neurological outcome, and inflammation 24 hours after experimental cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation. DESIGN Laboratory animal study. SETTING University animal research laboratory. SUBJECTS Sixty-one male Sprague-Dawley rats. INTERVENTIONS Animals underwent asphyxial cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation, randomized to groups with levosimendan treatment (bolus 12 µg/kg and infusion for 3 hr [0.3 µg/min/kg]) or vehicle (saline 0.9% bolus and infusion for 3 hr [equivalent fluid volume]). Cardiac index, local cerebral blood flow, and hemodynamic variables were measured for 180 minutes after cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Behavioral and neurological evaluations were conducted 24 hours after cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Furthermore, neuronal injury, expressed as Fluoro-Jade B-positive cells in the hippocampal formation, cortical and hippocampal inflammatory cytokine gene expression, and blood plasma interleukin-6 values were assessed. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Treatment with levosimendan reduced neuronal injury and improved neurological outcome after 24 hours of reperfusion and resulted in elevated cardiac index and local cerebral blood flow compared with vehicle after cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Mean arterial blood pressure was reduced during the early reperfusion period in the levosimendan group. Cortical and hippocampal inflammatory cytokine gene expression and blood plasma interleukin-6 levels were not influenced. CONCLUSIONS Levosimendan increased cerebral blood flow after experimental cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This effect coincided with reduced neuronal injury and improved neurologic outcome. Findings seem to be independent of inflammatory effects because no effects by levosimendan on cerebral or systemic inflammation could be detected. In summary, levosimendan is a promising agent to improve neurological outcome after cardiac arrest/cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
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Pierrakos C, Velissaris D, Franchi F, Muzzi L, Karanikolas M, Scolletta S. Levosimendan in critical illness: a literature review. J Clin Med Res 2014; 6:75-85. [PMID: 24578748 PMCID: PMC3935527 DOI: 10.14740/jocmr1702w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2013] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Levosimendan, the active enantiomer of simendan, is a calcium sensitizer developed for treatment of decompensated heart failure, exerts its effects independently of the beta adrenergic receptor and seems beneficial in cases of severe, intractable heart failure. Levosimendan is usually administered as 24-h infusion, with or without a loading dose, but dosing needs adjustment in patients with severe liver or renal dysfunction. Despite several promising reports, the role of levosimendan in critical illness has not been thoroughly evaluated. Available evidence suggests that levosimendan is a safe treatment option in critically ill patients and may reduce mortality from cardiac failure. However, data from well-designed randomized controlled trials in critically ill patients are needed to validate or refute these preliminary conclusions. This literature review is an attempt to synthesize available evidence on the role and possible benefits of levosimendan in critically ill patients with severe heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Pierrakos
- Department of Intensive Care, Universite Catholique de Louvain, Mont-Godinne University Hospital, Yvoir 5530, Belgium
| | - Dimitrios Velissaris
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - Federico Franchi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luigi Muzzi
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Menelaos Karanikolas
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8054, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sabino Scolletta
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Facilitation of left ventricular function recovery post percutaneous coronary intervention by levosimendan. Int J Cardiol 2013; 168:237-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.09.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2012] [Revised: 05/25/2012] [Accepted: 09/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Rieg AD, Rossaint R, Verjans E, Maihöfer NA, Uhlig S, Martin C. Levosimendan Relaxes Pulmonary Arteries and Veins in Precision-Cut Lung Slices - The Role of KATP-Channels, cAMP and cGMP. PLoS One 2013; 8:e66195. [PMID: 23824760 PMCID: PMC3688856 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/05/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Levosimendan is approved for left heart failure and is also used in right heart failure to reduce right ventricular afterload. Despite the fact that pulmonary arteries (PAs) and pulmonary veins (PVs) contribute to cardiac load, their responses to levosimendan are largely unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS Levosimendan-induced vasorelaxation of PAs and PVs was studied in precision-cut lung slices from guinea pigs by videomicroscopy; baseline luminal area was defined as 100%. Intracellular cAMP- and cGMP-levels were measured by ELISA and NO end products were determined by the Griess reaction. RESULTS Levosimendan relaxed control PVs (116%) and those pre-constricted with an endothelinA-receptor agonist (119%). PAs were only relaxed if pre-constricted (115%). Inhibition of KATP-channels (glibenclamide), adenyl cyclase (SQ 22536) and protein kinase G (KT 5823) largely attenuated the levosimendan-induced relaxation in control PVs, as well as in pre-constricted PAs and PVs. Inhibition of BKCa (2+)-channels (iberiotoxin) and Kv-channels (4-aminopyridine) only contributed to the relaxant effect of levosimendan in pre-constricted PAs. In both PAs and PVs, levosimendan increased intracellular cAMP- and cGMP-levels, whereas NO end products remained unchanged. Notably, basal NO-levels were higher in PVs. The KATP-channel activator levcromakalim relaxed PAs dependent on cAMP/PKA/PKG and increased cAMP-levels in PAs. DISCUSSION Levosimendan initiates complex and divergent signaling pathways in PAs and PVs. Levosimendan relaxes PAs and PVs primarily via KATP-channels and cAMP/cGMP; in PAs, BKCa (2+)- and Kv-channels are also involved. Our findings with levcromakalim do further suggest that in PAs the activation of KATP-channels leads to the production of cAMP/PKA/PKG. In conclusion, these results suggest that levosimendan might reduce right ventricular afterload by relaxation of PAs as well as pulmonary hydrostatic pressure and pulmonary edema by relaxation of PVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette D. Rieg
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Rolf Rossaint
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Eva Verjans
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Nina A. Maihöfer
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Stefan Uhlig
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Christian Martin
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Medical Faculty Aachen, Rhenish Westphalian Technical University, Aachen, Germany
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Hou ZQ, Sun ZX, Su CY, Tan H, Zhong X, Hu B, Zhou Y, Shang DY. Effect of Levosimendan on Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate in Hospitalized Patients with Decompensated Heart Failure and Renal Dysfunction. Cardiovasc Ther 2013; 31:108-14. [PMID: 23490237 DOI: 10.1111/1755-5922.12001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Qiang Hou
- Emergency Department; Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan; China
| | - Zhao-Xia Sun
- Department of Cardiology; 2nd People's Hospital of Jinan; Jinan; China
| | - Chong-Yi Su
- Emergency Department; Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan; China
| | - Hui Tan
- Emergency Department; Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan; China
| | - Xia Zhong
- Emergency Department; Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan; China
| | - Bo Hu
- Emergency Department; Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan; China
| | - Yi Zhou
- Emergency Department; Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan; China
| | - De-Ya Shang
- Emergency Department; Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University; Jinan; China
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Siniorakis E, Arvanitakis S, Pantelis N, Roussou K, Pelonis P, Marinakis N, Marinis D, Giannopoulos D, Limberi S. High mortality in diabetics with acute heart failure: concern about glyburide. Int J Cardiol 2012; 157:150-1. [PMID: 22459386 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2012.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Bergh CH, Andersson B, Dahlström U, Forfang K, Kivikko M, Sarapohja T, Ullman B, Wikström G. Intravenous levosimendan vs. dobutamine in acute decompensated heart failure patients on beta-blockers. Eur J Heart Fail 2011; 12:404-10. [PMID: 20335355 PMCID: PMC2844760 DOI: 10.1093/eurjhf/hfq032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims The aim of this study is to compare the effects of a 24 h intravenous infusion of levosimendan and a 48 h infusion of dobutamine on invasive haemodynamics in patients with acutely decompensated chronic NYHA class III–IV heart failure. All patients were receiving optimal oral therapy including a β-blocker. Methods and results This was a multinational, randomized, double-blind, phase IV study in 60 patients; follow-up was 1 month. There was a significant increase in cardiac index and a significant decrease in pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) at 24 and 48 h for both dobutamine and levosimendan. The improvement in cardiac index with levosimendan was not significantly different from dobutamine at 24 h (P = 0.07), but became significant at 48 h (0.44 ± 0.56 vs. 0.66 ± 0.63 L/min/m2; P = 0.04). At 24 h, the reduction in the mean change in PCWP from baseline was similar for levosimendan and dobutamine, however, at 48 h the difference was more marked for levosimendan (−3.6 ± 7.6 vs. −8.3 ± 6.7 mmHg; P = 0.02). No difference was observed between the groups for change in NYHA class, β-blocker use, hospitalizations, treatment discontinuations or rescue medication use. Reduction in B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) was significantly greater with levosimendan at 48 h (P = 0.03). According to physician's assessment, the improvement in fatigue (P = 0.01) and dyspnoea (P = 0.04) was in favour of dobutamine treatment, and hypotension was significantly more frequent with levosimendan (P = 0.007). No increase in atrial fibrillation or ventricular tachycardia was seen in either group. Conclusion A 24 h levosimendan infusion achieved haemodynamic and neurohormonal improvement that was at least comparable at 24 h and superior at 48 h to a 48 h dobutamine infusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claes-Håkan Bergh
- Department of Cardiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Revermann M, Schloss M, Mieth A, Babelova A, Schröder K, Neofitidou S, Buerkl J, Kirschning T, Schermuly RT, Hofstetter C, Brandes RP. Levosimendan attenuates pulmonary vascular remodeling. Intensive Care Med 2011; 37:1368-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s00134-011-2254-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2010] [Accepted: 03/18/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Stuart-Smith K. Levosimendan: from coronary care to intensive care? Intensive Care Med 2011; 37:569-71. [PMID: 21380519 DOI: 10.1007/s00134-011-2204-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2011] [Accepted: 02/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Price LC, Wort SJ, Finney SJ, Marino PS, Brett SJ. Pulmonary vascular and right ventricular dysfunction in adult critical care: current and emerging options for management: a systematic literature review. Crit Care 2010; 14:R169. [PMID: 20858239 PMCID: PMC3219266 DOI: 10.1186/cc9264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 206] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2010] [Revised: 05/30/2010] [Accepted: 09/21/2010] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pulmonary vascular dysfunction, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and resulting right ventricular (RV) failure occur in many critical illnesses and may be associated with a worse prognosis. PH and RV failure may be difficult to manage: principles include maintenance of appropriate RV preload, augmentation of RV function, and reduction of RV afterload by lowering pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). We therefore provide a detailed update on the management of PH and RV failure in adult critical care. METHODS A systematic review was performed, based on a search of the literature from 1980 to 2010, by using prespecified search terms. Relevant studies were subjected to analysis based on the GRADE method. RESULTS Clinical studies of intensive care management of pulmonary vascular dysfunction were identified, describing volume therapy, vasopressors, sympathetic inotropes, inodilators, levosimendan, pulmonary vasodilators, and mechanical devices. The following GRADE recommendations (evidence level) are made in patients with pulmonary vascular dysfunction: 1) A weak recommendation (very-low-quality evidence) is made that close monitoring of the RV is advised as volume loading may worsen RV performance; 2) A weak recommendation (low-quality evidence) is made that low-dose norepinephrine is an effective pressor in these patients; and that 3) low-dose vasopressin may be useful to manage patients with resistant vasodilatory shock. 4) A weak recommendation (low-moderate quality evidence) is made that low-dose dobutamine improves RV function in pulmonary vascular dysfunction. 5) A strong recommendation (moderate-quality evidence) is made that phosphodiesterase type III inhibitors reduce PVR and improve RV function, although hypotension is frequent. 6) A weak recommendation (low-quality evidence) is made that levosimendan may be useful for short-term improvements in RV performance. 7) A strong recommendation (moderate-quality evidence) is made that pulmonary vasodilators reduce PVR and improve RV function, notably in pulmonary vascular dysfunction after cardiac surgery, and that the side-effect profile is reduced by using inhaled rather than systemic agents. 8) A weak recommendation (very-low-quality evidence) is made that mechanical therapies may be useful rescue therapies in some settings of pulmonary vascular dysfunction awaiting definitive therapy. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review highlights that although some recommendations can be made to guide the critical care management of pulmonary vascular and right ventricular dysfunction, within the limitations of this review and the GRADE methodology, the quality of the evidence base is generally low, and further high-quality research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Price
- Department of Critical Care, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney Street, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Stephen J Wort
- Department of Critical Care, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney Street, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Simon J Finney
- Department of Critical Care, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney Street, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Philip S Marino
- Department of Critical Care, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, Royal Brompton Hospital, Sydney Street, London SW3 6NP, UK
| | - Stephen J Brett
- Centre for Perioperative Medicine and Critical Care Research, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, London W12 0HS, UK
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Hehir MP, Moynihan AT, Morrison JJ. Relaxant effect of Levosimendan on human uterine contractility in vitro. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2010; 203:184.e7-12. [PMID: 20541175 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2010.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2010] [Revised: 03/27/2010] [Accepted: 04/12/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Levosimendan, a compound that exerts effects on calcium sensitivity and intracellular free calcium, in addition to opening ATP-sensitive K-channels, is widely used in the treatment of heart failure. Because of its dual mechanism of action, we hypothesized that it would modulate human uterine contractility. STUDY DESIGN Biopsies of human myometrium were obtained at elective cesarean section (n = 16). Dissected myometrial strips suspended under isometric conditions, undergoing spontaneous and oxytocin-induced contractions, were exposed to cumulative additions of levosimendan in the concentration range of 1 nmol/L to 100 mmol/L. In separate experiments, the effects of prior exposure to the K-ATP antagonist glibenclmide (100 mmol) on the effects of levosimendan on myometrial contractility were evaluated. Simultaneous controls were performed for all experiments. RESULTS Levosimendan exerted an inhibitory effect on spontaneous and agonist induced contractions, when compared with control strips. The mean maximal inhibition (MMI) values were as follows: 45.34% +/- 5.92% for spontaneous contractions (n = 6; P < .05), and 41.88% +/- 5.40% for oxytocin-induced contractions (n = 6; P < .05). The inhibitory effect of levosimendan was significantly antagonized by glibenclamide, resulting in the mean maximal inhibition for levosimendan reduced to 19.04% +/- 3.61% for spontaneous contractions (n = 6; P < .05), and 16.53% +/- 4.08% for oxytocin induced contractions (n = 6; P < .05). CONCLUSION Levosimendan exerted a potent relaxant effect on spontaneous and agonist-induced human uterine contractility in vitro. This effect was reduced in the presence of K-ATP blockade. Because of the putative role of levosimendan in inflammatory conditions, the findings here may have implications for its future use as therapy for preterm labor.
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Delaney A, Bradford C, McCaffrey J, Bagshaw SM, Lee R. Levosimendan for the treatment of acute severe heart failure: A meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Int J Cardiol 2010; 138:281-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2008.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2007] [Revised: 06/27/2008] [Accepted: 08/10/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Grossini E, Molinari C, Caimmi PP, Uberti F, Vacca G. Levosimendan induces NO production through p38 MAPK, ERK and Akt in porcine coronary endothelial cells: role for mitochondrial K(ATP) channel. Br J Pharmacol 2009; 156:250-61. [PMID: 19154424 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2008.00024.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Levosimendan acts as a vasodilator through the opening of ATP-sensitive K(+) channels (K(ATP)) channels. Moreover, the coronary vasodilatation caused by levosimendan in anaesthetized pigs has recently been found to be abolished by the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, indicating that nitric oxide (NO) has a role in the vascular effects of levosimendan. However, the intracellular pathway leading to NO production caused by levosimendan has not yet been investigated. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of levosimendan on NO production and to evaluate the intracellular signalling pathway involved. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH In porcine coronary endothelial cells (CEC), the release of NO in response to levosimendan was examined in the presence and absence of N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, an adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, K(ATP) channel agonists and antagonists, and inhibitors of intracellular protein kinases. In addition, the role of Akt, ERK, p38 and eNOS was investigated through Western blot analysis. KEY RESULTS Levosimendan caused a concentration-dependent and K(+)-related increase of NO production. This effect was amplified by the mitochondrial K(ATP) channel agonist, but not by the selective plasma membrane K(ATP) channel agonist. The response of CEC to levosimendan was prevented by the K(ATP) channel blockers, the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor and the Akt, ERK, p38 inhibitors. Western blot analysis showed that phosphorylation of the above kinases lead to eNOS activation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In CEC levosimendan induced eNOS-dependent NO production through Akt, ERK and p38. This intracellular pathway is associated with the opening of mitochondrial K(ATP) channels and involves cAMP.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Grossini
- Laboratorio di Fisiologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Sperimentale, Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università del Piemonte Orientale A. Avogadro, via Solaroli 17, Novara, Italy.
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Rehberg S, Enkhbaatar P, Traber DL. Role of the Calcium Sensitizer, Levosimendan, in Perioperative Intensive Care Medicine. Intensive Care Med 2009. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-92278-2_47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Current World Literature. Curr Opin Anaesthesiol 2008; 21:85-8. [DOI: 10.1097/aco.0b013e3282f5415f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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