Current Cardiology Reviews[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
The Association of Neuropeptide Y with the Presence and Frequency of Ventricular Premature Beats.
Dedeoglu NF, Tascanov MB, Toprak K … +6 more , Fedai H, Bicer A, Altiparmak İH, Tanriverdi Z, Demirbag R, Koyuncu I
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2026 · PMID 40377159 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: The estimated prevalence of ventricular extra systole (VES) in the general population is about 1-4% on ECG, but 24-hour Holter monitoring has shown a prevalence of 40-75%. While it may be asymptomatic in ma...
INTRODUCTION: The estimated prevalence of ventricular extra systole (VES) in the general population is about 1-4% on ECG, but 24-hour Holter monitoring has shown a prevalence of 40-75%. While it may be asymptomatic in many patients, frequent VES persisting for a long time can negatively affect left ventricular (LV) systolic function in patients without structural heart disease. The etiology of VES is not completely known. In this study, we investigated the role of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the occurrence of VES. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, we included 150 patients with VES and 86 cases without VES as the control group. 24-hour Holter monitoring was performed on all subjects. Patients with VES were divided into two subgroups according to the frequency of VES as those >15,000 (Group 1, n= 48) and <15,000 (Group 2, n= 102). Venous blood was collected from all cases for biochemistry parameters and NPY level measurement. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of gender, smoking, LVEF, NPY, total cholesterol, LVEDD, SDNN, SDNN INDEX, RMSD, PNN50, LF, HF, VLF, and LF/HF (p<0.05, for all). Correlation analysis showed a significant positive correlation between serum NPY level and number of VES (r=0.577, p=0.001), LF (r=0140, p=0.032), LVEDD (r=0.162, p=0.013), and LVESD (r=0.290, p=0.001). Conversely, a negative correlation was observed between NPY and RMSSD (r=-0.162, p=0.012), SDNN INDEX (r=-0.136, p=0.037). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that NPY (odds ratio [OR]: 1.204; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.103-1.315; p=0.001) was an independent predictor of VES development. ROC curve analysis showed that NPY ≥ 47.9 ng/L predicted the occurrence of VES with a sensitivity of 82.0% and specificity of 81.4%. In addition, NPY ≥ 79.8 predicted the frequency of VES with a sensitivity of 85.5% and specificity of 87.3%. CONCLUSION: Our study showed that serum NPY levels may play an important role in the development of VES. Also, it was found that the frequency of VES increased as the NPY level increased.
Pharmacological Foundation and Novel Insights of Resveratrol in Cardiovascular System: A Review.
Tiwari R, Tiwari G, Singh A … +1 more , Dhas N
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2026 · PMID 40375701 · Full text
Research into drugs that can enhance cardiovascular health has been sparked by the rising prevalence of cardiovascular illnesses (CVDs). In addition to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, Resveratrol (RES) i...
Research into drugs that can enhance cardiovascular health has been sparked by the rising prevalence of cardiovascular illnesses (CVDs). In addition to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, Resveratrol (RES) is well known for its capacity to increase endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) activity. This page summarises RES's wide effects on energy metabolism, resilience to stress, exercise mimicking, circadian rhythm, lifespan control, and microbiome composition. This article addresses the poor and contradictory results shown in preclinical and clinical trials provides an update on the cardiovascular preventive properties of RES. The activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1), and natural antioxidant enzymes is associated with some of the positive effects of RES on the cardiovascular system. A microarray data summary indicates a strong correlation between the heart's reaction to calorie restriction and the transcriptional responses to RES. RES has been demonstrated to reduce contractile dysfunction, cardiac remodelling, and hypertrophy in several animal models of heart failure. Its preventive properties are believed to be due to several molecular pathways, including the suppression of prohypertrophic signalling molecules, enhancement of cardiac Ca handling, control of autophagy, and decreases in inflammation. RES thus has the potential to be used in several novel therapeutic approaches for treating diseases such as atherosclerosis, ischemia/reperfusion damage, metabolic syndrome, heart failure, and inflammatory changes associated with ageing.
Antiplatelet-Proton Pump Inhibitor Interactions and Arterial Thrombotic Events: A Pharmacovigilance Assessment using Disproportionality and Interaction Analysis.
Sridharan K
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40357791 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: The concomitant use of PPIs with antiplatelet therapy remains controversial due to potential drug interactions affecting clinical outcomes. While PPIs are recommended for gastroprotection in patients receiv...
INTRODUCTION: The concomitant use of PPIs with antiplatelet therapy remains controversial due to potential drug interactions affecting clinical outcomes. While PPIs are recommended for gastroprotection in patients receiving antiplatelet therapy, concerns persist regarding their impact on antiplatelet efficacy, particularly with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). AIMS: The aim of this study is to evaluate the safety profiles of antiplatelet-proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) combinations and assess the clinical implications of their concurrent use in real-world settings through pharmacovigilance data analysis. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study is to analyze and compare the thrombo-embolic risk profiles of various antiplatelet-PPI combinations using the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System database. METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database to evaluate the thrombo-embolic risk associated with antiplatelet-PPI combinations. The reporting odds ratio (ROR) and information component were calculated to detect safety signals. The interaction signal score (INTSS) was used to assess the protective or harmful effects of adding acetylsalicylic acid to clopidogrel-PPI combinations. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Analysis revealed significant safety signals for thrombo-embolic events with clopidogrel-rabeprazole (ROR: 62.67, 95% CI: 38.38-102.32) and clopidogrel-omeprazole (ROR: 6.87, 95% CI: 4.89-9.66) combinations. DAPT-PPI combinations showed comparable safety profiles to monotherapy-PPI combinations. The INTSS analysis suggested a potential protective effect of acetylsalicylic acid when added to clopidogrel-PPI combinations. Genderspecific analysis revealed female predominance in monotherapy complications and male predominance in combination therapy events. Clinical outcomes, including mortality and hospitalization rates, were comparable between groups. CONCLUSION: This pharmacovigilance analysis suggests that while DAPT-PPI combinations demonstrate acceptable safety profiles, careful consideration should be given to PPI selection, particularly given the unexpected safety signals with rabeprazole and confirmed risks with omeprazole. The addition of acetylsalicylic acid to clopidogrel-PPI combinations may offer protective effects against thrombo-embolic events. These findings support individualized riskbenefit assessment in selecting antiplatelet-PPI combinations while ensuring adequate gastroprotection for high-risk patients.
Evolving Strategies in the Detection and Management of Left Ventricular Thrombus: A Clinical Summary.
Abdelnabi M, Ibrahim R, Pham HN … +2 more , Saleh Y, Almaghraby A
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40353464 · Full text
Recent advancements have emerged in understanding the epidemiology and optimal therapeutic options for left ventricular thrombi (LVT). With early percutaneous interventions in acute myocardial infarction, the prevalence...
Recent advancements have emerged in understanding the epidemiology and optimal therapeutic options for left ventricular thrombi (LVT). With early percutaneous interventions in acute myocardial infarction, the prevalence of LVT has decreased. However, the best strategies for prevention, risk stratification, and management remain unclear, especially among nonischemic cardiomyopathy disorders. This review outlines these advancements and provides an overview of the diagnostic and therapeutic implications of LVT in ischemic and non-ischemic cardiomyopathies. Significant gaps in the current evidence persist, particularly regarding the optimal timing for LVT screening and the need for prophylactic anticoagulation, highlighting opportunities for prospective cohort studies. Furthermore, a better understanding of the unique risk factors that contribute to increased LVT risk would lead to more comprehensive algorithms that may quantify the risk of LVT development, aiding in developing preventive strategies targeted at reducing rates of LVT. Until more definitive evidence is available, clinicians should custom LVT screening, preventive measures, and management strategies based on individual patient risk factors.
The Emerging Roles of Resolvins: Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers for Cardiovascular Diseases.
Bolat R, Yazgan B
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2026 · PMID 40329727 · Full text
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide and include a range of conditions affecting the heart and vascular system. There is a growing priority on identifying and validating biomarkers for...
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide and include a range of conditions affecting the heart and vascular system. There is a growing priority on identifying and validating biomarkers for CVDs to increase early diagnosis and survival rates. Within this framework of research, there has been a notable increase in interest in resolvins, a class of specialized pro-resolving mediators. Resolvins are well-known for their capacity to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. They are categorized into three series: Dseries (RvD1 to RvD6), T-series (RvT1 to RvT4), and E-series (RvE1 to RvE4). These molecules are produced through biochemical pathways involving enzymes such as lipoxygenase (LOX), cyclooxygenase (COX), and cytochrome P450 (CYP). These enzymes utilize precursor molecules like docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosapentaenoic acid (DPA). This review addresses a critical gap in the literature by evaluating the potential of resolvins as biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of cardiovascular diseases. By synthesizing existing knowledge on their production pathways and receptors, it highlights the implications of altered resolvins levels in disease mechanisms and offers new perspectives on their clinical relevance.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Cardiac Diseases: Insights into Pathophysiology and Clinical Outcomes.
Ahmad SS, Ansari JA, Ansari TM … +1 more , Zaidi SMH
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2026 · PMID 40329726 · Full text
Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various cardiac diseases, including heart failure, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and drug-induced cardiotoxicity. Mitochondria are essential for cellular e...
Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of various cardiac diseases, including heart failure, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and drug-induced cardiotoxicity. Mitochondria are essential for cellular energy production, calcium homeostasis, redox balance, and apoptotic regulation, making their proper function vital for cardiac health. Dysfunctional mitochondria contribute to excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, impaired ATP synthesis, and disruption of mitochondrial dynamics, leading to cardiomyocyte damage and cell death. Emerging research highlights mitochondrial dynamics, including fission, fusion, mitophagy, and biogenesis, as critical determinants of cardiac homeostasis. Perturbations in these processes exacerbate myocardial injury and heart failure progression. Additionally, chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, primarily from anthracyclines, is closely linked to mitochondrial damage, underscoring the need for targeted therapeutic strategies. Pharmacological interventions, such as antioxidants, mitochondrial-targeted drugs, and cardioprotective agents, have shown promise in mitigating mitochondrial dysfunction-related cardiac toxicity. Furthermore, lifestyle modifications, including exercise and dietary interventions, are being explored to enhance mitochondrial resilience in cardiac tissues. Advanced imaging techniques and biomarker-based diagnostics are improving the early detection of mitochondrial dysfunction in cardiac diseases. Emerging therapeutic strategies, such as mitochondrial transplantation, gene therapy, and precision medicine approaches, hold potential for targeted intervention. Despite these advances, challenges remain in translating mitochondrial-targeted therapies into clinical practice due to complexities in mitochondrial regulation and inter-organ communication. Future research should focus on optimizing mitochondrial-targeted interventions, improving diagnostic precision, and exploring novel molecular pathways to mitigate cardiac mitochondrial dysfunction. A comprehensive understanding of mitochondrial pathophysiology in cardiac diseases will pave the way for innovative treatment strategies aimed at preserving cardiac function and reducing the burden of heart failure.
Navigating Cardiotoxicity in Cancer Treatment: Insights into Fluoropyrimidine-induced Cardiac Events.
Bhattarai A, Chakraborty M, Ali MHJ … +6 more , Sharma C, Rai A, Acharya R, Rai Y, Bhattacharjee A, Bhuyan NR
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2026 · PMID 40296635 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Fluoropyrimidine (FP) is a key cancer treatment but often causes side effects, notably cardiotoxicity. This cardiotoxicity can present as angina, arrhythmia, dyspnea, and palpitations, requiring urgent card...
INTRODUCTION: Fluoropyrimidine (FP) is a key cancer treatment but often causes side effects, notably cardiotoxicity. This cardiotoxicity can present as angina, arrhythmia, dyspnea, and palpitations, requiring urgent cardiologist attention. The etiology, management, and frequency of FP-induced cardiotoxicity are still unknown despite long-term use. OBJECTIVE: The article aims to provide an overview of the pathogenic occurrence, cardiac event risk factor, possible underlying mechanism of FP-cardiotoxicity, diagnostics, and therapeutic approach for the corrective management of this clinical condition. METHODS: Review was performed by searching extensively for various existing literature search PubMed, Web of science and Scopus using suitable keywords to find articles that support our review study. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: FP induced cardiotoxicity results in morbidness and fatality in patient undergoing the treatment. Thus, an effective management system must be standardized to effectively treat and prevent this clinical condition. CONCLUSION: The cardiotoxic event following 5-FU has been lesser-known clinical entity with limited study on its pathophysiology and management. In the diagnosis procedure, each patient undergoing FP treatment ought to have early symptom identity, risk categorization, and therapy individualized based on benefit-risk ratio.
Critical Challenges in Cancer Immunotherapy and Cardiac Health.
Alam A, Devi S, Hashmi S
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40277056 · Full text
Cancer immunotherapy is based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and has brought a revolution in oncology with promising treatment possibilities for diverse cancers. Yet, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) frequen...
Cancer immunotherapy is based on immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) and has brought a revolution in oncology with promising treatment possibilities for diverse cancers. Yet, immune-related adverse events (irAEs) frequently limit the clinical efficacy of ICIs, with cardiotoxicity representing a significant salient consequence. These ICI side-effects underscore the need for well-established models for the assessment of cardiac risk. This review proposes a risk evaluation strategy that uses biomarkers, non-invasive imaging, and individual patient data. The goal is to elucidate the mechanism through which immune-related adverse events affecting the heart might arise, and the need for predictive tools to better tailor treatment regimens to increase both safety and efficacy. Biomarkers play a vital role in the detection and prevention of heart-related side effects, which means adequate intervention while preserving therapeutic outcomes. Moreover, the study discusses the acknowledgement of novel treatment regimens and the ability of integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to improve the assessment of risk. AI/ML tools are experts at synthesizing heterogeneous datasets to reveal patterns and risk factors, providing clinicians with powerful capabilities to enhance safety and efficacy. This paper aims to develop sound risk assessment models to enhance both the safety and efficacy of cancer immunotherapies by exploring various strategies and interactions in immunotherapy.
Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases Associated with PCOS in India: A Review.
Kaur A, Kumar R, Kumar H … +3 more , Garg S, Vijukumar A, Kumar D
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40277055 · Full text
In the modern world, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is thought to be the most prevalent endocrine condition affecting women. Compared to their normal counterparts, PCOS patients have higher rates of morbidity and death...
In the modern world, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is thought to be the most prevalent endocrine condition affecting women. Compared to their normal counterparts, PCOS patients have higher rates of morbidity and death because they are more susceptible to these anomalies from an early age. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and PCOS are prevalent in women. PCOS often results from a combination of hereditary and environmental causes. Insulin resistance (IR) is considered the primary cause of several metabolic risk factors, such as Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), Metabolic Syndrome (MetS), dyslipidemia, obesity, and hypertension (HTN). Additionally, patients with PCOS may also have elevated levels of non-traditional factors, including C-reactive protein (CRP), carotid intima-media thickness (IMT), coronary artery calcification (CAC), as well as endothelial dysfunction, which raises the likelihood of complications from CVD. This review utilizes statistics and data mostly sourced from research in India, offering insight into the nation's distinct PCOS prevalence and related cardiovascular risks. To lessen the impact of PCOS in the modern world, prompt identification and effective management of these warning signs with food, lifestyle changes, and/or medication are crucial. The research that examined the potential impact of PCOS on the most prevalent CVDhypertension, insulin resistance, obesity, malignancy, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemiais reviewed in this study. Measuring subclinical atherosclerosis, such as coronary artery calcium or carotid plaque, might help inform shared decision-making over the start of statin therapy when CVD risk is unknown.
Post-stroke Arrhythmias: Performance of Brain-heart Crosstalk Networks.
Liu L, Wu B, Huang J
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40277054 · Full text
Stroke and heart disease are two of the leading causes of the global disease burden. However, modern research has gradually revealed a potential causal link between these two conditions. Most studies have focused on the...
Stroke and heart disease are two of the leading causes of the global disease burden. However, modern research has gradually revealed a potential causal link between these two conditions. Most studies have focused on the direct role of arrhythmias in stroke. However, clinical evidence suggests that the incidence of arrhythmias increases after stroke in patients without a history of arrhythmia, and cardiac disease after stroke has become the second leading cause of death after stroke. This article focuses on arrhythmias after stroke and reviews brain-heart crosstalk after stroke. This article examines the potential mechanisms of brain-heart interactions after stroke, including increased catecholamines due to autonomic imbalance, gut microbial dysbiosis, immune response, and systemic inflammation. In addition, this article discusses the impact of arrhythmia on stroke severity and the role of brain injury sites in brain-heart interactions. To address these mechanisms, we propose that post-stroke arrhythmia is a type of stroke-induced disease distinct from primary arrhythmia. We aimed to identify new therapeutic targets and treatments, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, to achieve targeted treatment and provide guidance for future clinical prevention and treatment.
Novel Molecules Targeting Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function in Cardiac Diseases.
Gonzalez SB, Trincado CV, Rodriguez KPT … +8 more , Acosta LPF, Garcia MFP, Saavedra-Castro S, Castiblanco-Arroyave SC, Higuera GM, Diaz-Ariza LA, Ortiz HR, Mendoza-Torres E
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40257024 · Full text
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide, creating the need for new therapeutic strategies targeting the pathological processes involved. Mitochondria, which comprise one-third of cardiac ce...
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death worldwide, creating the need for new therapeutic strategies targeting the pathological processes involved. Mitochondria, which comprise one-third of cardiac cell volume, maybe a potential therapeutic target for CVD. Known primarily for energy production, mitochondria are also involved in other processes including intermediary metabolism, mitophagy, calcium homeostasis, and regulation of cell apoptosis. Mitochondrial function is closely linked to morphology, which is altered through mitochondrial dynamics, including processes such as fission and fusion, which ensure that the energy needs of the cell are met. Recent data indicate that mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the pathophysiology of several CVDs, including cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, ischemia/reperfusion injury, and cardiac fibrosis. Furthermore, mitochondrial dysfunction is associated with oxidative stress related to atherosclerosis, hypertension, and pulmonary hypertension. In this review, we first briefly present the physiological mechanisms of mitochondrial function in the heart and then summarize the current knowledge on the impact of mitochondrial dysfunction on CVD. And finally, we highlight the evidence from , , and clinical studies of the cardioprotective effects of drugs that preserve mitochondrial function in CVD. It is hoped that this review may provide new insights into the need to discover new pharmacological targets with direct actions on mitochondria that may provide combined therapeutic strategies to optimally treat these pathologies.
From Pregnancy to Postpartum: The Cardiovascular Risks Associated with Gestational Diabetes.
Sharma R, Singh U, Kamal R … +1 more , Kumar R
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40248922 · Full text
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of pregnancy-related mortality, with pregnancy-related cardiovascular issues extending into the postpartum period. Recent studies suggest hyperandrogenism alters sex hormone le...
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of pregnancy-related mortality, with pregnancy-related cardiovascular issues extending into the postpartum period. Recent studies suggest hyperandrogenism alters sex hormone levels, contributing to gestational cardiovascular disease CVD. Most of the factors behind the onset of CVD in postpartum women remain unknown. Animal studies mimic adverse pregnancy outcomes to explore molecular causes of severe prenatal cardiac events and their role in postpartum cardiovascular disease development. This review will be focused on summarising human and animal research that shows how undesirable pregnancy outcomes, such as obesity in the mother and gestational diabetes (GD), have an impact on postpartum cardiovascular disease and prenatal cardiometabolic dysfunction. We will highlight the adverse effects of gestational hyperandrogenism as a potential biomarker for cardiovascular dysfunction in pregnant women and new mothers. Investigative cardiovascular (CV) risk variables in the early postpartum phase following pregnancy that were impacted by GD was the aim of this study. Current research strongly implies that women with GDM have a higher risk of developing CVD. Finding appropriate, reliable indicators of CVD and specific treatment modalities that can control obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome are critical to reducing the burden of CVD on impacted women. GD and hypertensive disorders are two pregnancy- related illnesses that raise the risk of CVD in the long run. Despite a lack of awareness, early screening, lifelong monitoring, and continuous research to enhance detection and prevention are essential.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cardiovascular Disease Risk Prediction: An Updated Review on Current Understanding and Future Research.
Tiwari A, Shah PC, Kumar H … +9 more , Borse T, Arun AR, Chekragari M, Ochani S, Shah YR, Ganesh A, Ahmed R, Sharma A, Mylavarapu M
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40248921 · Full text
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) Continues to be the leading cause of mortality worldwide, underscoring the critical need for effective prevention and management strategies. The ability to predict cardiovascular risk accurat...
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) Continues to be the leading cause of mortality worldwide, underscoring the critical need for effective prevention and management strategies. The ability to predict cardiovascular risk accurately and cost-effectively is central to improving patient outcomes and reducing the global burden of CVD. While useful, traditional tools used for risk assessment are often limited in their scope and fail to adequately account for atypical presentations and complex patient profiles. These limitations highlight the necessity for more advanced approaches, particularly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into cardiovascular risk prediction. Our review explores the transformative role of AI in enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility of cardiovascular risk prediction models. The implementation of AI-driven risk assessment tools has shown promising results, not only in improving CVD mortality rates but also in enhancing quality of life (QOL) markers and reducing healthcare costs. Machine learning (ML) algorithms predicted 2-year survival rates after MI with improved accuracy compared to traditional models. Deep learning (DL) forecasted hypertension risk with a 91.7% accuracy based on electronic health records. Furthermore, AI-driven ECG (Electrocardiography) analysis has demonstrated high precision in identifying left ventricular systolic dysfunction, even with noisy single-lead data from wearable devices. These tools enable more personalized treatment strategies, foster greater patient engagement, and support informed decision-making by healthcare providers. Unfortunately, the widespread adoption of AI in CVD risk assessment remains a challenge, largely due to a lack of education and acceptance among healthcare professionals. To overcome these barriers, it is crucial to promote broader education on the benefits and applications of AI in cardiovascular risk prediction. By fostering a greater understanding and acceptance of these technologies, we can accelerate their integration into clinical practice, ultimately aiming to mitigate the global impact of CVD.
Cardiotoxicity of Microplastics: An Emerging Cardiovascular Risk Factor.
Duggal B, Kumar G
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40211997 · Full text
The widespread use of plastics and improper disposal have resulted in the ubiquity of microplastics in the environment, from uninhabited polar regions to terrestrial ecosystems. This ubiquity poses significant health con...
The widespread use of plastics and improper disposal have resulted in the ubiquity of microplastics in the environment, from uninhabited polar regions to terrestrial ecosystems. This ubiquity poses significant health concerns for our environment and health. Various in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo studies have indicated microplastic toxicity in humans' respiratory, digestive, neurological, reproductive, and developmental health. Recent studies have pointed out that these microplastics also have cardiovascular toxicity. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the number one killer in the world, with over 20 million annual deaths worldwide. Hence, microplastics, as a potential risk factor for CVDs, can result in a significant increase in mortality and morbidity because almost everyone is currently exposed to microplastics. This perspective article explores the toxic effects of microplastics on cardiovascular human health. It focuses on various studies that have found microplastics from human arteries/cardiac tissues and their potential role in atherosclerosis and subsequent increases in myocardial infarction, stroke, and mortality. Studies reported the presence of various microplastics, such as polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide, and polystyrene, in cardiac tissues and arteries (coronary, aorta, cerebral, and carotid). Studies have suggested a potential negative correlation between microplastics and cardiovascular health, with the presence or increased concentration of microplastics linked to greater severity of health issues. Still, a causal relationship is yet to be established. Future studies, such as cohorts, should focus on deciphering and establishing whether microplastics are a potential cardiovascular risk factor.
Vericiguat: A Promising Drug for the Treatment of Heart Failure.
Shah D, Patel A, Patel D … +2 more , Patel B, Patel A
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40197196 · Full text
The health and survival of people with heart failure is a growing concern due to the associated illness and death. Traditional treatments such as medication, surgery, and lifestyle changes have not significantly improved...
The health and survival of people with heart failure is a growing concern due to the associated illness and death. Traditional treatments such as medication, surgery, and lifestyle changes have not significantly improved life expectancy, leading to a search for more effective drug options. A drug that can act on oxidative stress and cardiac inflammatory markers while carrying the benefits of existing therapies is needed. Targeting the soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC)-cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) dependent pathway significantly reduces cardiac myocyte death and improves ejection fraction. In 2021, the USFDA approved Vericiguat, a derivative of pyrazolo [3,4-b]pyridine, to decrease the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization. This review provides information on the structure, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, clinical status, and treatment of Vericiguat in heart failure. Riociguat was the first sGC stimulator used in pulmonary hypertension therapy, but its short half-life required multiple dosing, making it unsuitable for cardiovascular diseases. Vericiguat was developed to address this limitation by decreasing metabolism, and both preclinical and clinical investigations have indicated its minimal pharmacokinetic interactions. This makes it appropriate for long-term use in cardiac patients with multiple comorbidities who require several medications. Vericiguat represents a promising new option for heart failure treatment, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Its compatibility with other heart failure therapies without significant drug-drug interactions further highlights its potential as a cornerstone treatment. Ongoing studies continue to explore its benefits, suggesting that vericiguat may enable more comprehensive and effective management of heart failure, reducing the burden of this debilitating condition.
RASopathies and Cardiac Complications: Insights into Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Innovative Treatments.
Garg K, Trehan S, Fredrick F … +4 more , Singla A, Aggarwal K, Gupta A, Jain R
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40176696 · Full text
RAS proteins are critical in cellular signal transduction, influencing cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. While extensively studied for their role in cancer, RAS gene mutations also contribute significant...
RAS proteins are critical in cellular signal transduction, influencing cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. While extensively studied for their role in cancer, RAS gene mutations also contribute significantly to cardiovascular diseases, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, pulmonary valve stenosis, and atrial septal defects. Despite their similar primary structures, RAS proteins exhibit distinct functions in cardiac biology: H-RAS regulates cardiomyocyte size, K-RAS governs proliferation, and N-RAS, less associated with cardiac defects, is understudied in cardiac cells. Congenital RAS mutations, collectively known as RASopathies, include syndromes, like Noonan syndrome and cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome, which often lead to severe cardiac complications, including heart failure. Genetic testing and imaging advances have improved the diagnosis and management of these conditions. Recent research has shown promise with MEK inhibitors and other targeted therapies, offering potential improvements in managing RAS-related cardiac conditions. This review explores the role of the RAS subfamily in heart disease, highlighting key concepts and potential therapeutic targets. PubMed database was searched using keywords, such as RASopathies, RAS gene mutations, cardiac hypertrophy, cardiovascular disease, RAS/MAPK pathway, congenital heart disease, and more. Relevant literature up to June 2024 was examined and summarized, consisting of data from various clinical trials, metaanalyses, retrospective/prospective cohort studies, and current guidelines.
An Updated Review on the Complex Association of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) and Depression.
Aziz N, Tripathi T, Rawat A … +4 more , Panigrahy UP, Chandrashekhar DJ, Sharma MC, Wal P
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40114572 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: The presence of both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and depression is common, and their complex connection poses difficulties in therapy and affects patient outcomes. Thus, this study aims to examine the comp...
INTRODUCTION: The presence of both cardiovascular disease (CVD) and depression is common, and their complex connection poses difficulties in therapy and affects patient outcomes. Thus, this study aims to examine the complex correlation between depression and cardiovascular disease (CVD), with a specific focus on potential biomarkers and innovative therapeutic approaches. METHODS: Publications were considered between 2015-2024 from standard databases like Google Scholar, PubMed-Medline, and Scopus using standard keywords, "Depression", "Cardiovascular Disease", "Biomarkers", and "Therapeutic Approaches". Recent studies have discovered several potential biomarkers linked to depression and cardiovascular disease (CVD), including neuroendocrine factors, inflammatory markers, and signs of oxidative stress. Therapeutic approaches for depression and cardiovascular disease have emerged, with a focus on tackling their connections from multiple dimensions. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Emerging research suggests that depression has an impact on both the prognosis and risk of CVD. Conversely, depression can be caused by CVD, which triggers a series of events that lead to higher rates of illness and death. CONCLUSION: A comprehensive understanding of the fundamental pathophysiological pathways is essential for the identification of biomarkers that can serve as diagnostic tools or therapy targets. Among these interventions, exercise and dietary adjustments have shown promising impacts on cardiovascular health and results, as well as mental health. Ultimately, the selection of diagnostic techniques and treatments hinges on comprehending the complex interplay between depression and CVD. Researchers are developing novel therapeutic techniques to enhance the cardiovascular and mental health outcomes of individuals with both depression and CVD.
Unveiling the Hidden Culprit: A Case Report on Tachy-Bradyarrhythmias Presenting as Seizure Disorders.
Vashistha K, Banga A, Nestasie M … +3 more , Thangavel S, Ud Din MT, Shaw G
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40114571 · Full text
BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION: The misdiagnosis of seizure disorders in patients with cardiogenic syncope and tachy-bradyarrhythmias is a significant diagnostic challenge as the differentials for altered mental status and sync...
BACKGROUND/INTRODUCTION: The misdiagnosis of seizure disorders in patients with cardiogenic syncope and tachy-bradyarrhythmias is a significant diagnostic challenge as the differentials for altered mental status and syncope are broad and can mimic other clinical conditions. This case report presents a unique case of an elderly male with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia, initially misdiagnosed as a seizure disorder associated with syncope and treated with anti-epileptics for a neurogenic cause, before an ambulatory cardiac monitor revealed a sinister cardiogenic etiology. CASE PRESENTATION: An 87-year-old man with ischemic cardiomyopathy (LVEF 20%) and persistent atrial fibrillation presented for implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) evaluation following a ventricular fibrillation (VF) arrest. He had a history of recurrent syncope accompanied by muscle jerking and was initially treated with anti-epileptic drugs. However, further evaluation with mobile telemetry revealed ventricular arrhythmias, including nonsustained VT, VF, and asystole. Anti-epileptic medications were discontinued, and the patient was started on amiodarone. A cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator (CRT-D) was implanted, which successfully resolved his symptoms. Post-treatment, he remained asymptomatic, with no new VT/VF episodes detected at one week and three months during follow-up device checks. CONCLUSION: This case underscores the importance of considering cardiogenic causes in patients with syncope and seizure-like symptoms. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach is essential for accurate diagnosis and management.
Impact of Combined Treatment with ARNi and SGLT2i on Clinical and Echocardiographic Outcomes in Patients with CRT During Mid-term Period.
Atabekov TA, Khlynin MS, Krivolapov SN … +2 more , Batalov RE, Popov SV
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2025 · PMID 40108486 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNi) are new classes of medications with an evolving role in heart failure (HF) patients. However, the effe...
BACKGROUND: Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNi) are new classes of medications with an evolving role in heart failure (HF) patients. However, the effect of combining these drugs with cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) remains less certain. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the impact of combined treatment with ARNi and SGLT2i on clinical and echocardiographic outcomes in CRT patients during 12-month followup. METHODS: HF patients with CRT implantation indications were enrolled in the non-randomized and retrospective study and were grouped in no ARNi and SGLT2i (1st group) and combined treatment with ARNi and SGLT2i (2nd group) cohorts. The CRT response criteria were as follows: improvement of NYHA class ≥1 and left ventricular end-systolic volume reduction ≥15% or left ventricular ejection fraction improvement ≥5% from the baseline during the 12-month follow- up. RESULTS: A total of 52 patients were included. At the 12-month follow-up, 18 of 35 (51.4%) patients in the 1st group and 16 of 17 patients (94.1%) in the 2nd cohort met CRT responder criteria (p=0.002). In multivariable logistic regression, combined treatment with ARNi and SGLT2i [odds ratio (OR): 20.09; 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.10-192.15; p=0.009] and non-ischemic HF (OR 5.51; 95% CI 1.21-24.91; p=0.026) were associated with CRT response. CONCLUSION: The combined treatment with SGLT2i and ARNi in patients with CRT improved the echocardiographic and clinical outcomes during the 12-month follow-up. In our study cohort, the CRT response was associated with non-ischemic HF and combined treatment with ARNi and SGLT2i.
Percutaneous Zero-fluoroscopy Atrial Septal Defect Closure Fluoroscopy-guided Method: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Mendel B, Kohar K, Djiu RJ … +6 more , Yumnanisha DA, Winarta J, Jagannatha GNP, Husen TF, Siagian SN, Prakoso R
Curr Cardiol Rev · 2026 · PMID 40051359 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: Percutaneous atrial septal defects (ASD) closure with fluoroscopy guidance is the standard procedure. However, fluoroscopy poses stochastic and deterministic risks for small infants and children. Zero fluor...
INTRODUCTION: Percutaneous atrial septal defects (ASD) closure with fluoroscopy guidance is the standard procedure. However, fluoroscopy poses stochastic and deterministic risks for small infants and children. Zero fluoroscopy ASD closure is an alternative, yet its feasibility and safety compared to fluoroscopy remain unclear. Therefore, this study compares outcomes using standardized fluoroscopy and zero fluoroscopy methods for transcatheter ASD closure. METHODS: Four databases (PubMed, ProQuest, Google Scholar, Wiley) were used to search literature published before July 2023. The main results were the success rate and the complications. Outcomes were processed using the DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model of proportional meta-analysis to determine the overall proportion. RESULTS: A total of 68 cohort studies (8,989 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. Overall, percutaneous ASD closure was successfully performed in 97% of patients (95%CI: 96-98%) based on 59 studies (8,989 patients), of which fluoroscopy accounted for 97% (95%CI: 96- 98%) based on 51 studies (7,760 patients) and non-fluoroscopy for 98% (95%CI: 96-100%)] based on 8 studies (1,229 patients). Device embolization, AV block, and other arrhythmias did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, the percentage difference in residual leaks between the two groups was quite vast, with 5% in the non-fluoroscopy group and 12% in the fluoroscopy group. CONCLUSION: Percutaneous ASD closure with zero fluoroscopy is safe and effective, as evidenced by the high success rate, and is non-inferior to the standardized fluoroscopy method.
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