scholarly journals The Protective Effect of Qishen Granule on Heart Failure after Myocardial Infarction through Regulation of Calcium Homeostasis

2020 ◽  
Vol 2020 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Xiaomin Yang ◽  
Qiyan Wang ◽  
Zifan Zeng ◽  
Qian Zhang ◽  
Fang Liu ◽  
...  

Qishen granule (QSG) is a frequently prescribed traditional Chinese medicine formula, which improves heart function in patients with heart failure (HF). However, the cardioprotective mechanisms of QSG have not been fully understood. The current study aimed to elucidate whether the effect of QSG is mediated by ameliorating cytoplasmic calcium (Ca2+) overload in cardiomyocytes. The HF rat model was induced by left anterior descending (LAD) artery ligation surgery. Rats were randomly divided into sham, model, QSG-low dosage (QSG-L) treatment, QSG-high dosage (QSG-H) treatment, and positive drug (diltiazem) treatment groups. 28 days after surgery, cardiac functions were assessed by echocardiography. Levels of norepinephrine (NE) and angiotensin II (AngII) in the plasma were evaluated. Expressions of critical proteins in the calcium signaling pathway, including cell membrane calcium channel CaV1.2, sarcoendoplasmic reticulum ATPase 2a (SERCA2a), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II (CaMKII), and protein phosphatase calcineurin (CaN), were measured by Western blotting (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Echocardiography showed that left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) and fractional shortening (FS) value significantly decreased in the model group compared to the sham group, and illustrating heart function was severely impaired. Furthermore, levels of NE and AngII in the plasma were dramatically increased. Expressions of CaV1.2, CaMKII, and CaN in the cardiomyocytes were upregulated, and expressions of SERCA2a were downregulated in the model group. After treatment with QSG, both EF and FS values were increased. QSG significantly reduced levels of NE and AngII in the plasma. In particular, QSG prevented cytoplasmic Ca2+ overload by downregulating expression of CaV1.2 and upregulating expression of SERCA2a. Meanwhile, expressions of CaMKII and CaN were inhibited by QSG treatment. In conclusion, QSG could effectively promote heart function in HF rats by restoring cardiac Ca2+ homeostasis. These findings revealed novel therapeutic mechanisms of QSG and provided potential targets in the treatment of HF.

2020 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 181-187
Author(s):  
Jing Li ◽  
Yun Zhang ◽  
Weizhong Huangfu ◽  
Yuhong Ma

Using rat models of heart failure, we evaluated the effects of rosuvastatin and Huangqi granule alone and in combination on left ventricular end-diastolic dimension, left ventricular end-systolic dimension, left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular posterior wall thickness at end-diastole, and left ventricular posterior wall thickness at end-systole. Results showed that left ventricular end-diastolic dimension, left ventricular end-systolic dimension in the rosuvastatin + Huangqi granule group were significantly decreased (P ‹ 0.01), while left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular posterior wall thickness at end-diastole and left ventricular posterior wall thickness at end-systole were significantly increased (P ‹ 0.05). The serum IL-2, IFN-β, and TNF-α in rosuvastatin + Huangqi granule group were significantly lower than those in model group (P ‹ 0.05). However, the levels of S-methylglutathione and superoxide dismutase in rosuvastatin + Huangqi granule group were significantly higher, while nitric oxide was significantly lower than that in the model group (P ‹ 0.05). Also, compared to the model group, the apoptosis rate, and the autophagy protein LC3-II in the cardiomyocytes of rosuvastatin + Huangqi granule group was significantly decreased (P ‹ 0.01), while the level of p62 protein was significantly increased (P ‹ 0.01). The levels of AMPK and p-AMPK in cardiomyocytes were significantly lower in rosuvastatin + Huangqi granule group; however, the levels of mTOR and p-mTOR showed an opposite trend (P ‹ 0.05). To sum up, rosuvastatin + Huangqi granule could improve the cardiac function, decrease the level of oxidative stress, and inflammatory cytokines in rats with HF. The possible underlying mechanism might be inhibition of autophagy and reduced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes by regulating AMPK-mTOR signaling pathway.


2019 ◽  
Vol 17 ◽  
pp. 205873921985285
Author(s):  
Li Xiong ◽  
Guobo Xie ◽  
Binhua Luo ◽  
Zhiliang Mei

This study aims to evaluate the effect of Shenfu Qiangxin on TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway-related molecules in myocardial tissue of rats with heart failure. Five rats were selected as sham-operated group, while another 15 rats with heart failure were divided into three groups, including model group, losartan group, and Shenfu Qiangxin group. Rats in losartan group were given losartan intragastric intervention, the rats in Shenfu Qiangxin group were given Shenfu Qiangxin mixture intervention, while rats in another two groups were given equal volume of sterile saline intervention. During the treatment, the levels of B-type brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), free fatty acids (FFA), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway were measured in rats. Compared with model group, the expression of ejection fraction (EF), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVSP), TGF-β 1, Smad2, and Smad3 significantly decreased in sham-operated group, losartan group, and Shenfu Qiangxin group, while left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVDd), left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP), BNP, LDH, FFA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels increased ( P < 0.05). Compared with sham-operated group, the expression of EF, LVSP, TGF-beta 1, Smad2, and Smad3 dramatically decreased in losartan group, Shenfu Qiangxin group, but LVEDV, LVDd, LVEDP, BNP, LDH, FFA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels increased ( P < 0.05). Compared with losartan group, the expression of EF, LVSP, TGF-beta 1, Smad2, and Smad3 upregulated in Shenfu Qiangxin group, while LVEDV, LVDd, LVEDP, BNP, LDH, FFA, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels downregulated ( P < 0.05). Consequently, Shenfu Qiangxin could effectively improve the heart function of rats with heart failure, and play an anti-heart failure role by regulating the expression of related molecules of TGF-β/Smads signaling pathway.


2020 ◽  
Vol 71 (702) ◽  
pp. e62-e70
Author(s):  
Yuzhong Wu ◽  
Wengen Zhu ◽  
Xin He ◽  
Ruicong Xue ◽  
Weihao Liang ◽  
...  

BackgroundPolypharmacy is common in heart failure (HF), whereas its effect on adverse outcomes in patients with HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is unclear.AimTo evaluate the prevalence, prognostic impacts, and predictors of polypharmacy in HFpEF patients.Design and settingA retrospective analysis performed on patients in the Americas region (including the US, Canada, Argentina, and Brazil) with symptomatic HF and a left ventricular ejection fraction ≥45% in the TOPCAT (Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist) trial, an international, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted during 2006–2013 in six countries.MethodPatients were categorised into four groups: controls (<5 medications), polypharmacy (5–9 medications), hyperpolypharmacy, (10–14 medications), and super hyperpolypharmacy (≥15 medications). The outcomes and predictors in all groups were assessed.ResultsOf 1761 participants, the median age was 72 years; 37.5% were polypharmacy, 35.9% were hyperpolypharmacy, and 19.6% were super hyperpolypharmacy, leaving 7.0% having a low medication burden. In multivariable regression models, three experimental groups with a high medication burden were all associated with a reduction in all-cause death, but increased risks of HF hospitalisation and all-cause hospitalisation. Furthermore, several comorbidities (dyslipidemia, thyroid diseases, diabetes mellitus, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), a history of angina pectoris, diastolic blood pressure <80 mmHg, and worse heart function (the New York Heart Association functional classification level III and IV) at baseline were independently associated with a high medication burden among patients with HFpEF.ConclusionA high prevalence of high medication burden at baseline was reported in patients with HFpEF. The high medication burden might increase the risk of hospital readmission, but not the mortality.


Cardiology ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 138 (Suppl. 1) ◽  
pp. 11-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gerardo Riccio

Obesity is one of the commonest comorbidities in patients with heart failure, and it is associated with increased mortality risk. However, obese patients are often underrepresented in clinical trials and therefore evidence on their management remains scant. In order to expand knowledge on the management of these patients, anecdotal reports may be considered. In the present case report, we discuss the successful management of an obese patient who received sacubitril/valsartan therapy. This treatment was initiated after a 12-month period of losartan therapy, which did not provide any benefit in terms of heart function. Importantly, during this period the patient required frequent hospitalizations, with a marked decrease in quality of life. After the switch to sacubitril/valsartan, a 10% increase in left ventricular ejection fraction was observed (from 30 to 40%) over a 12-month period. Moreover, no hospitalizations were required, and the patient was able to carry on at least some of his daily activities.


2021 ◽  
pp. 096032712199320
Author(s):  
Jing Zhao ◽  
Qin Zhao ◽  
Shuai Mao

This study aims to explore the effect of NDRG2 (N-myc downstream regulated gene 2)-mediated Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1)/ Sma- and Mad-related protein (Smad) pathway in heart failure (HF) rats. HF rat models were established and treated with AdEGFP (adenovirus encoding enhanced green fluorescent protein) or AdNDRG2 (adenovirus encoding NDRG2). The echocardiography and hemodynamic parameters were detected, and the infarct size was calculated via 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining. Masson staining was performed to observe the collagen volume fraction (CVF), quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) to detect the expression of Collagen I (Col-I) and Collagen III (Col-III), and Transferase (TdT)-mediated D-UTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining to evaluate the apoptosis. Rats in the Model group presented with the decreases in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular shortening fraction (LVFS), left ventricular systolic pressure (LVSP) and maximal/minimum rate of left ventricular pressure (±dp/dt max), and significant increases in left ventricular end-diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and CVF. At the meantime, the expression of Col-I and Col-III as well as the apoptotic rate of myocardial cells was also elevated with increased infarct size in the Model group. The Model rats also had the significant reduction in the expression of NDRG2 and up-regulations of TGF-β1, p-Smad2/Smad2, p-Smad3/Smad3 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2). However, model rats treated with AdNDRG2 had evident amelioration in aforementioned indicators. In conclusion, NDRG2 reduces the apoptosis of myocardial cells and improves the heart function and myocardial remodeling in HF rats via inhibiting the activity of TGF-β1/Smad.


2020 ◽  
Vol 73 (8) ◽  
pp. 1765-1770
Author(s):  
Оlga А. Yepanchintseva ◽  
Оleg J. Zharinov ◽  
Кyrylo О. Mikhaliev

The aim of the publication was to review available data on epidemiology, pathophysiological and clinical aspects of HFmrEF as a specific HF pattern. Materials and methods: We carried out the analysis of the publications that appeared during last decade, related to the different aspects of HFmrEF. The literature search was conducted by use of Google Web Search and PubMed search engines by the following key words: heart failure, left ventricular ejection fraction, mid-range, as well as their combinations. Conclusions: Patients with specific HF pattern «HFmrEF» demonstrate multidirectional dynamic of systolic heart function with the possibility of transition to the category of reduced or preserved LVEF. Such patients need to be evaluated individually. Their management is based on neurohumoral modulators in order to prevent further LV dysfunction progression and repeated decompensation of HF.


Open Heart ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 8 (2) ◽  
pp. e001587
Author(s):  
Anudeep K Dodeja ◽  
Francesca Siegel ◽  
Katherine Dodd ◽  
Marwan Ma'ayeh ◽  
Laxmi S Mehta ◽  
...  

BackgroundWomen with cardiomyopathy (CM) are often advised against pregnancy due to risk for major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). However, the impact of CM subtype on maternal MACE is not understood, and so we sought to evaluate the influence of CM phenotype on maternal outcomes, as well as the effect on immediate and late left ventricular function.MethodsWe evaluated all pregnant women in our high-risk maternal cardiovascular programme (2009–2019). Composite maternal MACE included: death, inotrope use, left ventricular assist device, orthotopic heart transplant and/or escalation in transplant listing status, acute decompensated heart failure and sustained ventricular arrhythmia.ResultsAmong 875 women followed, 32 had CM (29±7 years old, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) 41%±12%): 3 ischaemic CM (ICM), 10 peripartum CM (PPCM) and 19 non-ICM (NICM). MACE events occurred in 6 (18%) women (PPCM: 2 (33%), NICM: 4 (67%)). There was no difference in LVEF at baseline, however, women with MACE had significantly lower LVEF both early (LVEF: 27±5% vs . 41±2%, p<0.05) and late post partum (LVEF: 28±5% vs . 44±2%, p<0.01).ConclusionsIn this contemporary cohort of women with CM, maternal MACE rates were lower than previously reported, and were less common in PPCM as compared with ICM and NICM. Heart function in women with MACE was negatively impacted immediately after delivery and in late postpartum follow-up, suggesting that pregnancy itself likely has influence on future left ventricular function in women with underlying CM.


2021 ◽  
Vol 2021 ◽  
pp. 1-13
Author(s):  
Xutao Sun ◽  
Yunjia Song ◽  
Ying Xie ◽  
Jieru Han ◽  
Fei Chen ◽  
...  

Application of the anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) is restricted due to its adverse, cardiotoxic side effects, which ultimately result in heart failure. Moreover, there are a limited number of chemical agents for the clinical prevention of DOX-induced cardiotoxicity. Based on the theories of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) on chronic heart failure (CHF), Shenlijia (SLJ), a new TCM compound, has been developed to fulfill multiple functions, including improving cardiac function and inhibiting cardiac fibrosis. In the present study, the protective effects and molecular mechanisms of SLJ on DOX-induced CHF rats were investigated. The CHF rat model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of DOX for six weeks with the cumulative dose of 15 mg/kg. All rats were then randomly divided into the control, CHF, CHF + SLJ (3.0 g/kg per day), and CHF + captopril (3.8 mg/kg per day) groups and treated for further four weeks. Echocardiography and the assessment of hemodynamic parameters were performed to evaluate heart function. A protein chip was applied to identify proteins with diagnostic values that were differentially expressed following SLJ treatment. The data from these investigations showed that SLJ treatment significantly improved cardiac function by increasing the left ventricular ejection fraction, improving the hemodynamic index, and inhibiting interstitial fibrosis. Protein chip analysis revealed that SLJ upregulated MCP-1, MDC, neuropilin-2, TGF-β3, thrombospondin, TIE-2, EG-VEGF/PK1, and TIMP-1/2/3 expressions and downregulated that of MMP-13. In addition, immunohistochemistry and western blot results further confirmed that SLJ promoted TIMP-1/2/3 and inhibited MMP-13 expression. The results of the present study suggest that SLJ was effective against DOX-induced CHF rats and is related to the improvement of heart function and ultrastructure and the inhibition of myocardial fibrosis.


2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bingxue Liang ◽  
Cui Yan ◽  
Lu Zhang ◽  
Zhonqi Yang ◽  
Lingjun Wang ◽  
...  

Background. Acupuncture and moxibustion (A&M) has been used for treating heart failure in China since the Han Dynasty. This ancient therapy can be applied to many diseases according to the WHO recommendations. Although there are many clinical reports on the treatment of heart failure by A&M, its effectiveness is still not fully demonstrated. We aimed to systematically review the related randomized controlled trial (RCT) studies and conduct a meta-analysis. Methods. The PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, AMED, CENTRAL, CNKI, Wanfang, and Weipu databases were searched electronically until December 2018. The data were extracted, and the risk of bias was evaluated. Meta-analysis, subgroup analysis, and metaregression were performed. Heart function was the main outcome assessed. The details of the intervention were also investigated. Results. Thirty-two RCTs involving 2499 patients were included. Most studies had an unclear risk regarding blinding and allocation concealment. Compared with the traditional treatment group, the experimental group had a higher efficacy rate (odds ratio (OR) = 2.61, 95% confidence interval (95%CI): = [1.84; 3.72], I2 = 0%, p<0.0001) and a significantly improved left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (mean difference (MD) = 6.34, 95%CI = [4.11, 8.57], I2 = 93%, p<0.0001), cardiac output (CO) (MD = 1.02, 95%CI = [0.65, 1.39], I2 = 94%, p<0.0001), 6-minute walk test (6MWT) (MD = 43.6, 95%CI = [37.43, 49.77], I2 = 0%, p<0.0001), and reduced brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) (MD = −227.99, 95%CI = [−337.30, −118.68], I2 = 96%, p<0.0001). Adverse events were inadequately reported in most studies. Conclusions. A&M may be a promising intervention as an adjunctive therapy to medication for treating heart failure. However, the evidence was inconclusive. Further large and rigorously designed RCTs are needed for verification.


2020 ◽  
Vol 90 (1-2) ◽  
pp. 49-58 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wang Chunbin ◽  
Wang Han ◽  
Cai Lin

Abstract. Vitamin D deficiency commonly occurs in chronic heart failure. Whether additional vitamin D supplementation can be beneficial to adults with chronic heart failure remains unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis to derive a more precise estimation. PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were searched on September 8, 2016. Seven randomized controlled trials that investigated the effects of vitamin D on cardiovascular outcomes in adults with chronic heart failure, and comprised 592 patients, were included in the analysis. Compared to placebo, vitamin D, at doses ranging from 2,000 IU/day to 50,000 IU/week, could not improve left ventricular ejection fraction (Weighted mean difference, WMD = 3.31, 95% confidence interval, CL = −0.93 to 7.55, P < 0.001, I2 = 92.1%); it also exerts no beneficial effects on the 6 minute walk distance (WMD = 18.84, 95% CL = −24.85 to 62.52, P = 0.276, I2 = 22.4%) and natriuretic peptide (Standardized mean difference, SMD = −0.39, 95% confidence interval CL = −0.48 to 0.69, P < 0.001, I2 = 92.4%). However, a dose-response analysis from two studies demonstrated an improved left ventricular ejection fraction with vitamin D at a dose of 4,000 IU/day (WMD = 6.58, 95% confidence interval CL = −4.04 to 9.13, P = 0.134, I2 = 55.4%). The results showed that high dose vitamin D treatment could potentially benefit adults with chronic heart failure, but more randomized controlled trials are required to confirm this result.


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