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Wang X, Chen L, Wei J, Zheng H, Zhou N, Xu X, Deng X, Liu T, Zou Y. The immune system in cardiovascular diseases: from basic mechanisms to therapeutic implications. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2025; 10:166. [PMID: 40404619 PMCID: PMC12098830 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-025-02220-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2024] [Revised: 12/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2025] [Indexed: 05/24/2025] Open
Abstract
Immune system plays a crucial role in the physiological and pathological regulation of the cardiovascular system. The exploration history and milestones of immune system in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have evolved from the initial discovery of chronic inflammation in atherosclerosis to large-scale clinical studies confirming the importance of anti-inflammatory therapy in treating CVDs. This progress has been facilitated by advancements in various technological approaches, including multi-omics analysis (single-cell sequencing, spatial transcriptome et al.) and significant improvements in immunotherapy techniques such as chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy. Both innate and adaptive immunity holds a pivotal role in CVDs, involving Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway, nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-containing proteins 1 and 2 (NOD1/2) signaling pathway, inflammasome signaling pathway, RNA and DNA sensing signaling pathway, as well as antibody-mediated and complement-dependent systems. Meanwhile, immune responses are simultaneously regulated by multi-level regulations in CVDs, including epigenetics (DNA, RNA, protein) and other key signaling pathways in CVDs, interactions among immune cells, and interactions between immune and cardiac or vascular cells. Remarkably, based on the progress in basic research on immune responses in the cardiovascular system, significant advancements have also been made in pre-clinical and clinical studies of immunotherapy. This review provides an overview of the role of immune system in the cardiovascular system, providing in-depth insights into the physiological and pathological regulation of immune responses in various CVDs, highlighting the impact of multi-level regulation of immune responses in CVDs. Finally, we also discuss pre-clinical and clinical strategies targeting the immune system and translational implications in CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
| | - Liming Chen
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianming Wei
- Central Diagnostics Laboratory, University Medical Center Utrecht, University Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Hao Zheng
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine and Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ning Zhou
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinjie Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xin Deng
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Critical Care Medicine and Department of Critical Care Medicine, School of Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, China.
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Jiangsu, Nanjing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, Joint International Research Laboratory of Respiratory Health, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, National Center for Respiratory Medicine, Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
| | - Yunzeng Zou
- Shanghai Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital and Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Institutes of Advanced Medical Sciences and Huaihe Hospital, Henan University, Kaifeng, Henan, China.
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Păvălan A, Boldeanu MV, Nicolae FM, Gheonea TC, Rogoveanu I, Florescu C, Turcu-Știolică A, Gheorghe DN, Popescu DM, Șoancă A, Roman A, Șurlin P. Clinical Periodontal Evaluation and Assessment of Dipeptidyl-Peptidase-4 and Galectin-3 in Gingival Crevicular Fluid of Periodontitis Patients with Heart Failure and Diabetes. J Clin Med 2025; 14:3345. [PMID: 40429343 PMCID: PMC12112265 DOI: 10.3390/jcm14103345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2025] [Revised: 04/27/2025] [Accepted: 05/07/2025] [Indexed: 05/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Periodontitis, a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease affecting tooth-supporting structures, has been increasingly linked to systemic conditions such as diabetes mellitus (DM) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This study aimed to evaluate the periodontal status and levels of dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) and galectin-3 (Gal-3) in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients with periodontitis, heart failure (HF), and diabetes, exploring their potential as biomarkers for disease association. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 88 patients categorized into four groups: periodontally and systemically healthy (control, C); periodontitis (P); periodontitis and HF (P+HF); and periodontitis, HF, and diabetes (P+HF+D). Periodontal status was assessed using probing pocket depth (PPD) and Gingival Index (GI). GCF samples were collected and analyzed for DPP-4 and Gal-3 levels using ELISA. Statistical analyses were performed to assess differences between groups and potential correlations. Results: Results indicated significantly higher levels of DPP-4 in all test groups compared to controls (p < 0.0001), with the highest levels in the P+HF+D group. Similarly, Gal-3 levels were elevated in periodontitis patients, particularly in those with HF (p < 0.0001), and there was no significant difference between P+HF and P+HF+D groups. No significant differences were observed between smokers and non-smokers regarding these markers. Positive correlations were found between the periodontal parameters and the immunological markers in all test groups. Conclusions: The findings suggest that DPP-4 and Gal-3 may serve as potential biomarkers for periodontitis in association with heart failure and diabetes, with DPP-4 being more upregulated in the association with diabetes and Gal-3 with heart failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Păvălan
- Department of Periodontology, Research Center of Periodontal-Systemic Interactions, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Mihail Virgil Boldeanu
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Flavia Mirela Nicolae
- Department of Periodontology, Research Center of Periodontal-Systemic Interactions, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Theodora Claudia Gheonea
- Center for IBD Patients, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200345 Craiova, Romania
| | - Ion Rogoveanu
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Cristina Florescu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Cardiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Adina Turcu-Știolică
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Dorin Nicolae Gheorghe
- Department of Periodontology, Research Center of Periodontal-Systemic Interactions, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Dora Maria Popescu
- Department of Periodontology, Research Center of Periodontal-Systemic Interactions, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Andrada Șoancă
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandra Roman
- Department of Periodontology, Faculty of Dental Medicine, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy Cluj-Napoca, Victor Babeș St., No. 15, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Petra Șurlin
- Department of Periodontology, Research Center of Periodontal-Systemic Interactions, Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
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Pamies A, Vallvé JC, Paredes S. New Cardiovascular Risk Biomarkers in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Implications and Clinical Utility-A Narrative Review. Biomedicines 2025; 13:870. [PMID: 40299461 PMCID: PMC12025197 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines13040870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2025] [Revised: 03/28/2025] [Accepted: 04/02/2025] [Indexed: 04/30/2025] Open
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that not only causes joint inflammation but also significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), leading to a higher morbidity and mortality. RA patients face an accelerated progression of atherosclerosis, attributed to both traditional cardiovascular risk factors and systemic inflammation. This review focuses on emerging biomarkers for cardiovascular risk assessment in RA, aiming to enhance early detection and treatment strategies. Specifically, we examine the roles of interleukin-32 (IL-32), Dickkopf-1 (DKK-1), galectin-3 (Gal-3), catestatin (CST), and fetuin-A (Fet-A) as potential markers for CVD in this patient population. IL-32, a proinflammatory cytokine, is elevated in RA patients and plays a significant role in inflammation and endothelial dysfunction, both of which contribute to atherosclerosis. DKK-1, a Wnt signaling pathway inhibitor, has been associated with both synovial inflammation and the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Elevated DKK-1 levels have been linked to an increased CV mortality and could serve as a marker for CVD progression in RA. Gal-3 is involved in immune modulation and fibrosis, with elevated levels in RA patients correlating with disease activity and cardiovascular outcomes. Catestatin, a peptide derived from chromogranin A, has protective anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, though its role in RA-related CVD remains under investigation. Finally, Fet-A, a glycoprotein involved in vascular calcification, shows potential as a biomarker for CV events in RA, though data on its role remain conflicting. These biomarkers provide deeper insights into the pathophysiology of RA and its cardiovascular comorbidities. Although some biomarkers show promise in improving CV risk stratification, further large-scale studies are required to validate their clinical utility. Currently, these biomarkers are in the research phase and are not yet implemented in standard care. Identifying and incorporating these biomarkers into routine clinical practice could lead to the better management of cardiovascular risk in RA patients, thus improving outcomes in this high-risk population. This review highlights the importance of continued research to establish reliable biomarkers that can aid in both diagnosis and the development of targeted therapies for cardiovascular complications in RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Pamies
- Secció de Reumatologia, Hospital de Tortosa Verge de la Cinta, 43500 Tortosa, Catalonia, Spain;
| | - Joan-Carles Vallvé
- Unitat de Recerca en Lípids i Arterioesclerosi, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204 Reus, Catalonia, Spain;
- Institut Investigació Sanitaria Pere Virgili, 43204 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Paredes
- Unitat de Recerca en Lípids i Arterioesclerosi, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, 43204 Reus, Catalonia, Spain;
- Institut Investigació Sanitaria Pere Virgili, 43204 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
- Secció de Reumatologia, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan de Reus, 43204 Reus, Catalonia, Spain
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Zhao J, Deng G, Wang W, Wang P, Shen X, Yuan X, Jiang H, Ruan ZB. Effect of atrial fibrosis on clot burden score and physicochemical properties of thrombus in patients with ischaemic stroke occurring in non-valvular atrial fibrillation. PeerJ 2025; 13:e19173. [PMID: 40151456 PMCID: PMC11949112 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.19173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Background To investigate the effect of the degree of atrial fibrosis on the clot burden score (CBS) and physicochemical properties in patients with acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) due to non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF). Methods A total of 117 patients with AIS in NVAF attending the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and the Cerebrovascular Diagnostic and Treatment Centre between August 2021 and May 2024 were included in the study. Baseline clinical data, biochemical indexes, and imaging data of the patients were collected, and the patients were divided into 93 cases of the CBS (score of 0-6) group and 24 cases of the CBS (score of 7-10) group according to the CBS. CBS (score of 0-6) signifies higher clot burden. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to measure the concentration of galactaglutinin-3 (gal-3) and transforming growth factor (TGF-β1) in the serum of the patients, and the PTFV1 were collected by 12-lead electrocardiogram, and the differences in the degree of atrial fibrosis between different groups and the risk factors of CBS (score of 0-6) were analysed. To analyse the effect of atrial fibrosis on the collateral circulation of stroke, the patients were divided into 31 cases with good collateral circulation (grade 3-4) and 86 cases with poor collateral circulation (grade 0-2) according to the digital subtraction angiography (DSA) images. The cerebral thrombus was collected from 60 AIS patients who underwent mechanical thrombectomy. The content of erythrocyte, fibrin/platelets and leukocytes in the thrombus was analysed by Mathew's scarlet blue staining, and the density of thrombus was measured by computed tomography (CT). Results A total of 117 patients were included in this study, and the proportion of hypertensive patients, proportion of chronic atrial fibrillation (CAF), B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), D-dimer, uric acid concentration, proportion of patients with PTFV1 < -0.03 mm s, gal-3, and TGF-β1 were higher in the CBS (score of 0-6) group as compared to the CBS (score of 7-10) group (P-value < 0.05). Hypertension, proportion of CAF, homocysteine, NLR, D-dimer, uric acid, PTFV1 < -0.03 mm s, gal-3, and TGF-β1, were risk factors for the development of high CBS in atrial fibrillation (AF), and hypertension and CAF were the most important factors for the occurrence of AF in the independent risk factors for stroke combined with high clot burden. gal-3 and TGF-β1 were risk factors for poor collateral circulation, atrial fibrosis indexes were not associated with thrombus pathological composition and thrombus density. Conclusions Atrial fibrosis increases clot burden in patients with AIS due to NVAF but does not significantly correlate with the physicochemical properties and density of the thrombus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Zhao
- Graduate School of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Cardiology, Tongzhou People’s Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guangjun Deng
- Department of Medical Imaging, Tongzhou People’s Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weijing Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Tongzhou People’s Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Tongzhou People’s Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyu Shen
- Department of Cardiology, Tongzhou People’s Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Yuan
- Department of Cardiology, Tongzhou People’s Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Haifei Jiang
- Department of Cerebrovascular Interventional Diagnosis and Treatment Center, Tongzhou People’s Hospital, Nantong, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhong-bao Ruan
- Graduate School of Dalian Medical University, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
- Department of Cardiology, The Affiliated Taizhou People’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou School of Clinical Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Taizhou, Jiangsu, China
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Drugescu A, Gavril RS, Zota IM, Costache AD, Gavril OI, Roca M, Vasilcu TF, Mitu O, Leon MM, Dimitriu DC, Ghiciuc CM, Mitu F. Inflammatory and Fibrosis Parameters Predicting CPET Performance in Males with Recent Elective PCI for Chronic Coronary Syndrome. Life (Basel) 2025; 15:510. [PMID: 40283065 PMCID: PMC12028580 DOI: 10.3390/life15040510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2025] [Revised: 03/17/2025] [Accepted: 03/18/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025] Open
Abstract
Functional capacity (FC), ideally determined by a cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET), is a valuable prognostic marker in chronic coronary syndrome (CCS). As CPET has limited availability, biomarkers of inflammation and/or fibrosis could help predict diminished FC. Our objective was to assess the value of galectin-3 (gal-3) and that of three inflammatory markers easily obtained from a complete blood count (NLR (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio), PLR (platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio) and MLR (monocyte-to-lymphocyte ratio) in predicting diminished FC in males with recent elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for CCS. Our prospective study enrolled 90 males who had undergone elective PCI in the previous 3 months (mean age 60.39 ± 10.39 years) referred to a cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) clinic between February 2023 and December 2024. All subjects received clinical examination, a cardiopulmonary stress test, transthoracic echocardiography and bloodwork. Based on percentage of predicted oxygen uptake (%VO2max), patients were classified in two subgroups-impaired FC (≤70%, n = 50) and preserved FC (>70%, n = 40). NLR, PLR and gal-3 were elevated in patients with poor FC and were significant predictors of diminished FC in multivariate analysis. PLR, NLR and gal-3 could guide referrals for CR for high-risk males with recent elective PCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Drugescu
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Radu Sebastian Gavril
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Ioana Mădălina Zota
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Alexandru Dan Costache
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Oana Irina Gavril
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Mihai Roca
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Teodor Flaviu Vasilcu
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Ovidiu Mitu
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Maria Magdalena Leon
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
| | - Daniela Cristina Dimitriu
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (D.C.D.); (C.M.G.)
| | - Cristina Mihaela Ghiciuc
- Department of Morpho-Functional Sciences II, Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (D.C.D.); (C.M.G.)
| | - Florin Mitu
- Department of Medical Specialties (I), Faculty of Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (A.D.); (A.D.C.); (O.I.G.); (M.R.); (T.F.V.); (O.M.); (M.M.L.); (F.M.)
- Romanian Acad Med Sci, 927180 Bucharest, Romania
- Romanian Acad Scientists, 050044 Bucharest, Romania
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Astiawati T, Rohman MS, Wihastuti T, Sujuti H, Endharti AT, Sargowo D, Oceandy D, Lestari B, Triastuti E, Nugraha RA. Efficacy of Colchicine in Reducing NT-proBNP, Caspase-1, TGF-β, and Galectin-3 Expression and Improving Echocardiography Parameters in Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Multi-Center, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial. J Clin Med 2025; 14:1347. [PMID: 40004876 PMCID: PMC11856086 DOI: 10.3390/jcm14041347] [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: 01/15/2025] [Revised: 02/07/2025] [Accepted: 02/14/2025] [Indexed: 02/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Background: Caspase-1 (reflects NOD-like receptor protein 3 inflammasome activity), transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), and Galectin-3 play significant roles in post-AMI fibrosis and inflammation. Recently, colchicine was shown to dampen inflammation after AMI; however, its direct benefit remains controversial. Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the benefit of colchicine in reducing NT-proBNP, Caspase-1, TGF-β,and Galectin-3 expression and improving systolic-diastolic echocardiography parameters among AMI patients. Methods: A double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized, multicenter clinical trial was conducted at three hospitals in East Java, Indonesia: Dr. Saiful Anwar Hospital Malang, Dr. Soebandi Hospital Jember, and Dr. Iskak Hospital Tulungagung, between 1 June and 31 December 2023. A total of 161 eligible AMI subjects were randomly allocated 1:1 to colchicine (0.5 mg daily) or standard treatment for 30 days. Caspase-1, TGF-β, and Galectin-3 were tested on day 1 and day 5 by ELISA, while NT-proBNP was tested on days 5 and 30. Transthoracic echocardiography was also performed on day 5 and day 30. Results: By day 30, no significant improvements in systolic-diastolic echocardiography parameters had been shown in the colchicine group. However, colchicine reduced the level of NT-proBNP on day 30 more than placebo (ΔNT-proBNP: -73.74 ± 87.53 vs. -75.75 ± 12.44 pg/mL; p < 0.001). Moreover, colchicine lowered the level of Caspase-1 expression on day 5 and the levels of TGF-β and Galectin-3 expression on day 1. Conclusions: Colchicine can reduce NT-proBNP, Caspase-1, TGF-β, and Galectin-3 expression significantly among AMI patients. Colchicine administration was capable of reducing post-AMI inflammation, ventricular dysfunction, and heart failure but did not improve systolic-diastolic echocardiography parameters (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06426537).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tri Astiawati
- Doctoral Program of Medical Science, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, Indonesia
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Dr. Iskak General Hospital, Tulungagung 66223, Indonesia
| | - Mohammad Saifur Rohman
- Department of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Dr. Saiful Anwar General Hospital, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
- Cardiovascular Research Centre, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang 65145, Indonesia
| | - Titin Wihastuti
- Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
| | - Hidayat Sujuti
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
| | - Agustina Tri Endharti
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
| | - Djanggan Sargowo
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Dr. Saiful Anwar General Hospital, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
| | - Delvac Oceandy
- Division of Cardiovascular Science, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9PT, UK;
| | - Bayu Lestari
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
| | - Efta Triastuti
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Brawijaya University, Malang 65145, Indonesia;
| | - Ricardo Adrian Nugraha
- Department of Cardiology and Vascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia;
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He Q, Lai Z, Zhai Z, Zou B, Shi Y, Feng C. Advances of research in diabetic cardiomyopathy: diagnosis and the emerging application of sequencing. Front Cardiovasc Med 2025; 11:1501735. [PMID: 39872882 PMCID: PMC11769946 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1501735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 12/27/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2025] Open
Abstract
Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the most prevalent and severe complications associated with diabetes mellitus (DM). The onset of DCM is insidious, with the symptoms being obvious only in the late stage. Consequently, the early diagnosis of DCM is a formidable challenge which significantly influences the treatment and prognosis of DCM. Thus, it becomes imperative to uncover innovative approaches to facilitate the prompt identification and diagnosis of DCM. On the traditional clinical side, we tend to use serum biomarkers as well as imaging as the most common means of diagnosing diseases because of their convenience as well as affordability. As we delve deeper into the mechanisms of DCM, a wide variety of biomarkers are becoming competitive diagnostic indicators. Meanwhile, the application of multiple imaging techniques has also made efforts to promote the diagnosis of DCM. Besides, the spurt in sequencing technology has made it possible to give hints about disease diagnosis from the genome as well as the transcriptome, making diagnosis less difficult, more sensitive, and more predictive. Overall, sequencing technology is expected to be the superior choice of plasma biomarkers for detecting lesions at an earlier stage than imaging, and its judicious utilization combined with imaging technologies will lead to a more sensitive diagnosis of DCM in the future. Therefore, this review meticulously consolidates the progress and utilization of various biomarkers, imaging methods, and sequencing technologies in the realm of DCM diagnosis, with the aim of furnishing novel theoretical foundation and guide future research endeavors towards enhancing the diagnostic and therapeutic landscape of DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianqian He
- Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, China
| | - Ze Lai
- Liangzhu Laboratory, Zhejiang University Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhengyao Zhai
- Department of Gynecological Oncology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Beibei Zou
- Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, China
| | - Yangkai Shi
- Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, China
| | - Chao Feng
- Department of Cardiology, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of School of Medicine, and International School of Medicine, International Institutes of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yiwu, China
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8
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Dong R, Ji Z, Wang M, Ma G. Role of macrophages in vascular calcification: From the perspective of homeostasis. Int Immunopharmacol 2025; 144:113635. [PMID: 39566391 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.113635] [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: 09/28/2024] [Revised: 11/04/2024] [Accepted: 11/11/2024] [Indexed: 11/22/2024]
Abstract
Vascular calcification (VC) is a crucial risk factor for the high morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. With the global population aging, the incidence of VC is escalating annually. However, due to its silent clinical process, VC often results in irreversible clinical outcomes. Inflammation is a core element in the VC process, and macrophages are the major inflammatory cells. Due to their diverse origins, microenvironments, and polarization states, macrophages exhibit significant heterogeneity, exerting strong effects on the occurrence, development, and even the regression of VC. In this review, we summarize the origin, distribution, classification, and surface markers of macrophages. Simultaneously, we explore the mechanisms by which macrophages maintain homeostasis or regulate inflammation, including the macrophage-mediated regulation of VC through the release of inflammatory factors, osteogenic genes, extracellular vesicles, and alterations in efferocytosis. Finally, we discuss research targeting inflammation and macrophages to develop novel therapeutic regimens for preventing and treating VC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Dong
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, No. 87, Dingjiaqiao, Nanjing 210009, China; Department of Cardiology, Yancheng No. 1 People's Hospital, No. 66 South Renmin Road, Yancheng 224000, China
| | - Zhenjun Ji
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, No. 87, Dingjiaqiao, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Mi Wang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, No. 87, Dingjiaqiao, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Genshan Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, No. 87, Dingjiaqiao, Nanjing 210009, China.
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9
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Seropian IM, El-Diasty M, El-Sherbini AH, González GE, Rabinovich GA. Central role of Galectin-3 at the cross-roads of cardiac inflammation and fibrosis: Implications for heart failure and transplantation. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024; 80:47-58. [PMID: 39482190 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2024.10.002] [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: 09/02/2024] [Revised: 10/03/2024] [Accepted: 10/04/2024] [Indexed: 11/03/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac inflammation and fibrosis are central pathogenic mechanisms leading to heart failure. Transplantation is still the treatment of choice for many patients undergoing end-stage heart failure who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical therapy. In spite of considerable progress, the molecular mechanisms linking inflammation, fibrosis and heart failure remain poorly understood. Galectin-3 (GAL3), a chimera-type member of the galectin family, has emerged as a critical mediator implicated in cardiac inflammatory, vascular and fibrotic processes through modulation of different cellular compartments including monocytes and macrophages, fibroblasts, endothelial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells via glycan-dependent or independent mechanisms. GAL3-driven circuits may hierarchically amplify cytokine production and function, immune cell activation and fibrosis cascades, influencing a wide range of cardiovascular disorders. Thus, GAL3 emerges as a potential therapeutic target to counteract aberrant inflammation and fibrosis during heart failure and a potential biomarker of heart failure and clinical outcome of heart transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio M Seropian
- Servicio de Hemodinamia y Cardiología Intervencionista, Hospital Italiano de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1199, Argentina; Laboratorio de Patología Cardiovascular Experimental e Hipertensión Arterial, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (UCA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Ciudad de Buenos Aires & Departamento de Patología, Instituto de Salud Comunitaria, Universidad Nacional de Hurlingham, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mohammad El-Diasty
- Harrington Heart and Vascular Institute, University Hospital Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA; Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7, Canada
| | | | - Germán E González
- Laboratorio de Patología Cardiovascular Experimental e Hipertensión Arterial, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (UCA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Ciudad de Buenos Aires & Departamento de Patología, Instituto de Salud Comunitaria, Universidad Nacional de Hurlingham, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Gabriel A Rabinovich
- Laboratorio de Glicomedicina, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Ciudad de Buenos Aires C1428, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad de Buenos Aires, C1428, Argentina.
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10
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Arcuri G, Valente C, Romito G, Bonsembiante F, Mazzoldi C, Contiero B, Poser H, Guglielmini C. Evaluation of Galectin-3 in Dogs with Atrial Fibrillation. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2547. [PMID: 39272333 PMCID: PMC11394297 DOI: 10.3390/ani14172547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2024] [Revised: 08/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a lectin associated with fibrosis and inflammation, and increased circulating concentrations are considered a risk factor for atrial fibrillation (AF) in humans. This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the serum concentration of Gal-3 in dogs with cardiac disease, both with and without AF. Dogs with AF associated with acquired heart diseases were selected, while cardiac healthy dogs and dogs with heart diseases but without AF served as controls. We statistically compared the serum concentration of Gal-3, which was assessed using a commercial canine-specific ELISA kit, among healthy dogs and dogs with heart disease with and without AF. Additionally, associations between Gal-3 and clinical and echocardiographic variables were evaluated. A total of 73 dogs were included, of which 17/73 (23.3%) were cardiac healthy and 56/73 (76.7%) had heart disease, with 26/56 (46.4%) having AF. No significant difference in Gal-3 concentration was found between cardiac healthy dogs (3.90 ± 1.65 ng/mL) and dogs with heart disease, either with or without AF (3.37 ± 1.04 ng/mL, p = 0.436 and 4.68 ± 1.80 ng/mL, p = 0.332, respectively). Gal-3 showed a significant positive correlation with age (r = 0.47, p < 0.001) and a negative correlation with body weight (r = -0.45, p < 0.001). The results of this study suggest that Gal-3 does not have an important role in the development of AF in dogs, but it is associated with advanced age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Arcuri
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Carlotta Valente
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Giovanni Romito
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Federico Bonsembiante
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Chiara Mazzoldi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Contiero
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Helen Poser
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Carlo Guglielmini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, 35020 Padua, Italy
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11
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Arias C, Álvarez-Indo J, Cifuentes M, Morselli E, Kerr B, Burgos PV. Enhancing adipose tissue functionality in obesity: senotherapeutics, autophagy and cellular senescence as a target. Biol Res 2024; 57:51. [PMID: 39118171 PMCID: PMC11312694 DOI: 10.1186/s40659-024-00531-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity, a global health crisis, disrupts multiple systemic processes, contributing to a cascade of metabolic dysfunctions by promoting the pathological expansion of visceral adipose tissue (VAT). This expansion is characterized by impaired differentiation of pre-adipocytes and an increase in senescent cells, leading to a pro-inflammatory state and exacerbated oxidative stress. Particularly, the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) and adipose tissue hypoxia further impair cellular function, promoting chronic disease development. This review delves into the potential of autophagy modulation and the therapeutic application of senolytics and senomorphics as novel strategies to mitigate adipose tissue senescence. By exploring the intricate mechanisms underlying adipocyte dysfunction and the emerging role of natural compounds in senescence modulation, we underscore the promising horizon of senotherapeutics in restoring adipose health. This approach not only offers a pathway to combat the metabolic complications of obesity, but also opens new avenues for enhancing life quality and managing the global burden of obesity-related conditions. Our analysis aims to bridge the gap between current scientific progress and clinical application, offering new perspectives on preventing and treating obesity-induced adipose dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Consuelo Arias
- Escuela de Kinesiología, Facultad de Odontología y Ciencias de la Rehabilitación, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, 7500922, Chile.
- Centro de Biología Celular y Biomedicina (CEBICEM), Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Javiera Álvarez-Indo
- Centro de Biología Celular y Biomedicina (CEBICEM), Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mariana Cifuentes
- Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
- Advanced Center for Chronic Diseases (ACCDiS), Santiago, Chile
| | - Eugenia Morselli
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Sciences, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bredford Kerr
- Centro de Biología Celular y Biomedicina (CEBICEM), Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile
| | - Patricia V Burgos
- Centro de Biología Celular y Biomedicina (CEBICEM), Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile.
- Centro Basal Ciencia & Vida, Universidad San Sebastián, Santiago, Chile.
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12
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Pruc M, Gaca Z, Swieczkowski D, Kubica J, Galwankar S, Salak A, Szarpak L. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Diagnostic Value of Galectin-3 in Acute Coronary Syndrome. J Clin Med 2024; 13:4504. [PMID: 39124770 PMCID: PMC11313188 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13154504] [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: 07/02/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background/Objectives: We investigated the potential diagnostic role of galectin-3 (Gal-3) in patients presenting with suspected acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Methods: We searched PubMed Central, Scopus, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from inception until 20 June 2024. We measured effect sizes using odds ratios (OR) with 95% CIs for dichotomous data and mean differences (MD) with CIs for continuous data. Random synthesis analysis was performed if I2 was less than 50% or Q test p values were less than 0.05. Otherwise, a fixed pooled meta-analysis was performed. Results: The meta-analysis includes 15 eligible studies. Gal-3 levels were substantially higher in the ACS group (12.84 ± 8.48 ng/mL) compared to the control group (7.23 ± 6.05 ng/mL; MD = 3.89; 95% CI: 2.83 to 4.95; p < 0.001). Gal-3 levels in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and control groups differed (10.09 ± 8.16 vs. 4.64 ± 3.07 ng/mL, MD = 4.30; 95% CI: 0.41 to 8.18; p < 0.001). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in Gal-3 levels between ST-elevated myocardial infarction (STEMI) and control groups (10.62 ± 7.34 vs. 5.54 ± 2.96 ng/mL; MD = 5.54; 95% CI: 3.12 to 7.97; p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between the non-ST-elevated myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) vs. control groups or patients with STEMI vs. patients with NSTEMI. Conclusions: Gal-3 may be beneficial for detecting acute coronary syndromes but not NSTEMI or differentiating between ACS types. This meta-analysis is promising, but further research is needed to prove Gal-3's potential diagnostic value, exact cut-offs, and advantages over cardiospecific troponins. Gal-3 may be a useful diagnostic biomarker; however, more clinical trials are needed to prove its utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Pruc
- Department of Clinical Research and Development, LUX MED Group, 02-678 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (Z.G.)
- Department of Public Health, International European University, 03187 Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Zuzanna Gaca
- Department of Clinical Research and Development, LUX MED Group, 02-678 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (Z.G.)
| | - Damian Swieczkowski
- Department of Clinical Research and Development, LUX MED Group, 02-678 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (Z.G.)
- Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-416 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Jacek Kubica
- Department of Cardiology and Internal Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, 85-094 Bydgoszcz, Poland;
| | - Sagar Galwankar
- Department of Emergency, Florida State University College of Medicine, Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Sarasota Memorial Hospital, Sarasota, FL 32306, USA;
| | - Anna Salak
- Institute of Outcomes Research, Maria Sklodowska-Curie Medical Academy, 00-136 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Lukasz Szarpak
- Department of Clinical Research and Development, LUX MED Group, 02-678 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.); (Z.G.)
- Henry JN Taub Department of Emergency Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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13
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Bellos I, Marinaki S, Lagiou P, Benetou V. Association of serum galectin-3 levels with mortality and cardiovascular disease outcomes in hemodialysis patients: a systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis. Int Urol Nephrol 2024; 56:2755-2767. [PMID: 38519721 PMCID: PMC11266241 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-024-04026-4] [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: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Galectin-3 has been proposed as a candidate marker for cardiovascular risk stratification, although its role in kidney failure is unclear. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the association of serum galectin-3 levels with overall survival and cardiovascular outcomes among hemodialysis patients. METHODS Medline, Scopus, Web of Science and CENTRAL were systematically searched from inception till Aug 20, 2023. Observational studies evaluating the association of serum galectin-3 with mortality, cardiovascular disease and arterial stiffness in hemodialysis patients were included. The exposure-response relationship between galectin-3 and mortality was explored by dose-response meta-analysis using restricted cubic splines in a one-stage approach. RESULTS Overall, 13 studies were included (9 cohort and 4 cross-sectional), comprising 6025 hemodialysis individuals. Increasing galectin-3 values were associated with greater all-cause mortality risk (χ2: 18.71, p-value < 0.001) and an insignificant trend toward higher cardiovascular mortality risk (χ2: 5.06, p-value: 0.079). Compared to a reference galectin-3 value of 10 ng/ml, all-cause mortality risk was significantly higher with levels of 20 ng/ml (Hazard ratio-HR: 2.62, 95% confidence intervals-CI: 1.66-4.15), 30 ng/ml (HR: 3.78, 95% CI: 2.05-6.97) and 40 ng/ml (HR: 4.01, 95% CI: 2.14-7.52). Qualitative synthesis of evidence indicated that serum galectin-3 may be linked to abdominal aortic calcification severity and progression, as well as to left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that high serum galectin-3 levels are associated with greater all-cause mortality risk among patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Preliminary cross-sectional evidence indicates that serum galectin-3 may be associated with arterial stiffness and left ventricular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis Bellos
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 115 27, Athens, Greece.
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 115 27, Athens, Greece.
| | - Smaragdi Marinaki
- Department of Nephrology and Renal Transplantation, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Pagona Lagiou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 115 27, Athens, Greece
| | - Vassiliki Benetou
- Department of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Medical School, 75, Mikras Asias Str., 115 27, Athens, Greece
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14
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Hao WR, Cheng CH, Liu JC, Chen HY, Chen JJ, Cheng TH. Understanding Galectin-3's Role in Diastolic Dysfunction: A Contemporary Perspective. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:906. [PMID: 39063659 PMCID: PMC11277993 DOI: 10.3390/life14070906] [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: 06/23/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Diastolic dysfunction, a prevalent condition characterized by impaired relaxation and filling of the left ventricle, significantly contributes to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Galectin-3, a β-galactoside-binding lectin, has garnered attention as a potential biomarker and mediator of fibrosis and inflammation in cardiovascular diseases. This comprehensive review investigates the impact of galectin-3 on diastolic dysfunction. We explore its molecular mechanisms, including its involvement in cellular signaling pathways and interaction with components of the extracellular matrix. Evidence from both animal models and clinical studies elucidates galectin-3's role in cardiac remodeling, inflammation, and fibrosis, shedding light on the underlying pathophysiology of diastolic dysfunction. Additionally, we examine the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of galectin-3 in diastolic dysfunction, emphasizing its potential as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target. This review underscores the significance of comprehending galectin-3's role in diastolic dysfunction and its promise in enhancing diagnosis and treatment approaches for HFpEF patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Rui Hao
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan; (W.-R.H.); (J.-C.L.)
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City 11002, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Han Cheng
- Department of Medical Education, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City 33305, Taiwan;
| | - Ju-Chi Liu
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan; (W.-R.H.); (J.-C.L.)
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei City 11002, Taiwan
| | - Huan-Yuan Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan; (H.-Y.C.); (J.-J.C.)
| | - Jin-Jer Chen
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei 11529, Taiwan; (H.-Y.C.); (J.-J.C.)
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine and Graduate Institute of Clinical Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung City 404333, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Hurng Cheng
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung City 404333, Taiwan
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15
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Koletsos N, Lazaridis A, Triantafyllou A, Anyfanti P, Lamprou S, Stoimeni A, Papadopoulos NG, Koravou EE, Gkaliagkousi E. Accumulation of Microvascular Target Organ Damage in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients Is Associated with Increased Cardiovascular Risk. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2140. [PMID: 38610905 PMCID: PMC11012611 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13072140] [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: 03/12/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a prototype autoimmune disease associated with increased cardiovascular (CV) burden. Besides increased arterial stiffness and subclinical atherosclerosis, microvascular dysfunction is considered an important component in the pathophysiology of CV disease. However, there is a lack of data regarding the effect of multiple target organ damage (TOD) on CV health. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate (i) the presence of microvascular changes in SLE in various vascular beds, (ii) the possible associations between the accumulation of microvascular TOD and CV risk and (iii) whether Galectin-3 represents a predictor of combined microvascular TOD. Methods: Participants underwent (i) evaluation of skin microvascular perfusion (laser speckle contrast analysis), (ii) fundoscopy (non-mydriatic fundus camera), (iii) indirect assessment of myocardial perfusion (subendocardial viability ratio) and (iv) determination of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR). CV risk was calculated using the QResearch Risk Estimator version 3 (QRISK3). Serum Galectin-3 levels were determined. Results: Forty-seven SLE patients and fifty controls were studied. SLE patients demonstrated impaired skin microvascular reactivity (160.2 ± 41.0 vs. 203.6 ± 40.1%), retinal arteriolar narrowing (88.1 ± 11.1 vs. 94.6 ± 13.5 μm) and higher UACR levels compared to controls. Furthermore, SLE individuals had significantly higher Galectin-3 levels [21.5(6.1) vs. 6.6(6.6) ng/dL], QRISK3 scores [7.0(8.6) vs. 1.3(3.6)%] and a greater chance for microvascular dysfunction. In the SLE group, patients with multiple TOD exhibited higher QRISK3. In the multivariate analysis, the accumulation of TOD correlated with disease activity and Galectin-3 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our study showed for the first time that SLE patients exhibit a greater number of cases of TOD. The accumulation of TOD was associated with increased CV risk. Clinicians dealing with SLE should be aware and seek microvascular alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nikolaos Koletsos
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.L.); (A.T.); (S.L.); (A.S.); (E.G.)
| | - Antonios Lazaridis
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.L.); (A.T.); (S.L.); (A.S.); (E.G.)
| | - Areti Triantafyllou
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.L.); (A.T.); (S.L.); (A.S.); (E.G.)
| | - Panagiota Anyfanti
- Second Medical Department, Hippokration General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54642 Thessaloniki, Greece;
| | - Stamatina Lamprou
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.L.); (A.T.); (S.L.); (A.S.); (E.G.)
| | - Anastasia Stoimeni
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.L.); (A.T.); (S.L.); (A.S.); (E.G.)
| | | | | | - Eugenia Gkaliagkousi
- 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 56429 Thessaloniki, Greece; (A.L.); (A.T.); (S.L.); (A.S.); (E.G.)
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