Cardiovascular Diseases: From Basic Research to Clinical Application—2nd Edition

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Research".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 July 2025 | Viewed by 15705

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Preclinical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania
Interests: cardiovascular disease; pathophysiology; oxidative stress; inflammation; hemostasis; diabetes mellitus
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Guest Editor
1. Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410028 Oradea, Romania
2. Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
Interests: pharmacology; alternative therapies; biochemistry; public health; therapeutics; One Health; sustainability in health; ecology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With the first volume of this Special Issue being a great success (https://www.mdpi.com/journal/life/special_issues/0UO87783VR), we invite you to publish your research in the second volume.

Presently, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most prominent menace to human health. Because CVD is still the leading cause of death, research in this field is a critical task. Although recent decades have seen tremendous progress regarding the risk factors of CVD, the molecular basis of atherosclerosis, coronary revascularization and treatment of heart failure (these being only a few areas of research interest to be reminded), much remains to be done and the prospects are promising. In order to improve the quality and length of life for those at risk for CVD, research for better predictors of this disease and better means for prevention and treatment must be the target.

The purpose of this Special Issue is to identify several important advances in clinical and basic research in CVD that will provide the tools for further progress in the prevention and treatment of this disease. As artificial intelligence plays an increasingly important role in the prevention of CVD, it may be worth considering this aspect.

Therefore, it is our pleasure to cordially invite those of you with interest in CVD research and willing to be part of this Special Issue to publish papers that address novelties in both clinical and basic cardiovascular research. We encourage the submission of all types of manuscripts, including original studies, reviews and short communications.

Dr. Cristiana Bustea
Prof. Dr. Delia Mirela Tit
Guest Editors

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Life is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

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Keywords

  • CVDs
  • risk factors
  • prevention
  • treatment
  • novelties in research
  • artificial intelligence

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 904 KiB  
Article
Predicting Cardiovascular Risk Factors for Acute Leukemia Patients by Assessing Subclinical Atherosclerosis and Left Ventricular Function Before Chemotherapy
by Anda Gabriela Militaru, Daniel Florin Lighezan, Anca Maria Cimpean, Elena Amaricai and Marius Militaru
Life 2025, 15(5), 704; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15050704 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025
Abstract
Background: Subclinical atherosclerosis is a “silent” cardiovascular disease that can be devastating when combined with other illnesses. Its presence may affect therapy responses but can potentially worsen hematological malignancies due to most chemotherapy regimens’ cardiovascular adverse effects. Thus, cardiovascular risk factor (CVRF) assessment [...] Read more.
Background: Subclinical atherosclerosis is a “silent” cardiovascular disease that can be devastating when combined with other illnesses. Its presence may affect therapy responses but can potentially worsen hematological malignancies due to most chemotherapy regimens’ cardiovascular adverse effects. Thus, cardiovascular risk factor (CVRF) assessment is required before chemotherapy. Unfortunately, this rarely happens. Aim: we aim to examine the impact of CVRFs on hemodynamic parameters of acute leukemia (AL) patients before chemotherapy. Methods: Overall, 45 AL patients and 26 controls were included. Intima-media thickness (IMT), ankle brachial index (ABI), pulse wave velocity (PWV), and functional cardiac parameters were used. CVRFs were found in 26 AL patients (36.6%), while 19 AL (26.8%) patients lacked CVRFs. CVRFs were also found in 26 controls (36.6%). Results: Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) significantly decreased for patients with CVRFs (59.26 ± 5.62) compared to those without CVRFs (64.05 ± 7.43, p < 0.05). Hypertensive and diabetic patients had a significantly higher left IMT (mm) of 0.92 ± 0.01 compared to those without them (0.76 ± 0.03, p < 0.05). Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with CVRFs had a significantly higher PWV (m/s) of 8.4 ± 0.12 compared to those without CVRFs (6.87 ± 0.66) (p < 0.05). Conclusions: AL and cardiovascular risk factors interacted before chemotherapy. To decrease cardiotoxicity, AL patients need cardiovascular risk assessment. Subclinical atherosclerosis and echocardiography help chemotherapy patients to choose a treatment regimen, predict long-term outcomes, and predict cardiovascular issues. Full article
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13 pages, 5260 KiB  
Article
Astaxanthin Protects Against H2O2- and Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity in H9c2 Rat Myocardial Cells
by Roman Krestinin, Margarita Kobyakova, Yulia Baburina, Linda Sotnikova and Olga Krestinina
Life 2024, 14(11), 1409; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111409 - 1 Nov 2024
Viewed by 3031
Abstract
Astaxanthin (AST) is a carotenoid that has positive effects on various organs and tissues. It also exhibits a cardioprotective action. In this study, the influence of AST on the survival of H9c2 cardiomyocytes under hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)- and doxorubicin [...] Read more.
Astaxanthin (AST) is a carotenoid that has positive effects on various organs and tissues. It also exhibits a cardioprotective action. In this study, the influence of AST on the survival of H9c2 cardiomyocytes under hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)- and doxorubicin (DOX)-induced cardiotoxicity was investigated. Under these conditions, the content of cytosolic Ca2+ was measured, and changes in the area of the mitochondrial mass, as well as in the content of the voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1), the autophagy marker LC3A/B, and the pro-apoptotic transcription factor homologous protein (CHOP), were determined. It was found that AST removed the cytotoxic effect of H2O2 and DOX, while cell survival increased, and the mitochondrial mass did not differ from the control. At the same time, a decrease in the content of cytosolic Ca2+ and the restoration of the VDAC1 level to values close to the control were observed. The restoration of the CHOP level suggests a reduction in endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in cells. The results allow us to consider AST as a potential agent in the prevention and/or treatment of cardiac diseases associated with oxidative stress. Full article
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9 pages, 1294 KiB  
Article
Regular Physical Activity Seems to Eliminate Lower Limb Perfusion Asymmetries in Sedentary Non-Healthy Older Individuals
by Margarida Florindo, João Gregório and Luís Monteiro Rodrigues
Life 2024, 14(10), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14101258 - 2 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1008
Abstract
Perfusion asymmetries have been associated with vascular pathology. Physical activity is a component of vascular health. Here, we investigate the impact of a thirty-day regular home-based physical activity program in older individuals with multiple age-related comorbidities. Eleven participants of both sexes were included. [...] Read more.
Perfusion asymmetries have been associated with vascular pathology. Physical activity is a component of vascular health. Here, we investigate the impact of a thirty-day regular home-based physical activity program in older individuals with multiple age-related comorbidities. Eleven participants of both sexes were included. Skin perfusion was assessed in both feet by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF, for deeper perfusion) and polarized light spectroscopy (PSp, for superficial perfusion). At baseline, participants had significant perfusion differences between right and left feet (p = 0.005 with LDF; p = 0.028 with PSp), which disappeared with activity and reappeared in recovery. After 30 days, both feet showed significant perfusion increases as assessed with LDF (p = 0.005) compared to D0. At this point, the perfusion asymmetry observed at D0 was no longer present. However, the superficial perfusion asymmetry assessed by PSp persisted at D30 (p = 0.028). Data show that regular physical activity positively altered the lower limb perfusion pattern. Systolic pressure and mean arterial pressure were also significantly reduced at D30. These impacts seem to be directly related to the physical activity program introduced in the day-by-day routines of these participants. These also encourage further research on the role of symmetry–asymmetry in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation in vascular medicine. Full article
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11 pages, 1510 KiB  
Article
Myocardial Bridging Increases the Risk of Adverse Cardiovascular Events in Patients without Coronary Atherosclerosis
by Tsung-Lin Yang, Wen-Rui Hao, Chun-Chao Chen, Yu-Ann Fang, Hsin-Bang Leu, Ju-Chi Liu, Shing-Jong Lin, Jiun-Lin Horng and Chun-Ming Shih
Life 2024, 14(7), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14070811 - 26 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1839
Abstract
Background: Myocardial bridging (MB) is a congenital coronary anomaly and an important cause of chest pain. The long-term effects of MB on cardiovascular events remain elusive. Methods: We used the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan to conduct an analysis. All patients [...] Read more.
Background: Myocardial bridging (MB) is a congenital coronary anomaly and an important cause of chest pain. The long-term effects of MB on cardiovascular events remain elusive. Methods: We used the National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan to conduct an analysis. All patients who had undergone coronary angiography were considered for inclusion. The primary endpoint was a composite of nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal ischemic stroke, and cardiovascular death. Results: We identified 10,749 patients from 2008 to 2018 and matched them with an equal number of controls by propensity-score matching. The mean follow-up period was 5.78 years. In patients without coronary artery disease, MB increased the risk of the composite endpoint (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.44–1.72, p < 0.001), which was driven by increased risks of nonfatal myocardial infarction and cardiovascular death. In patients with significant coronary artery disease, MB did not increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. MB was identical to insignificant coronary artery disease from the viewpoint of clinical outcomes. Conclusions: The presence of MB significantly increases cardiovascular risks in patients with normal coronary vessels. Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease mitigates the effect of MB on cardiovascular outcomes. MB can be considered an insignificant coronary artery disease equivalent. Full article
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15 pages, 12236 KiB  
Article
Different Doses of Methamphetamine Are Needed to Produce Locomotor or Blood Pressure Sensitization in Mice
by Carla Letizia Busceti, Domenico Bucci, Massimiliano De Lucia, Michela Ferrucci, Mariarosaria Scioli, Albino Carrizzo, Ferdinando Nicoletti, Carmine Vecchione and Francesco Fornai
Life 2024, 14(6), 723; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060723 - 3 Jun 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1217
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) exposure increases locomotor sensitization. However, no study has explored the occurrence of cardiovascular sensitization. The present study, carried out in mice, analyzed the following: (i) METH sensitization extending to systolic blood pressure (SBP); (ii) a potential correlation between ambulatory and cardiovascular [...] Read more.
Methamphetamine (METH) exposure increases locomotor sensitization. However, no study has explored the occurrence of cardiovascular sensitization. The present study, carried out in mice, analyzed the following: (i) METH sensitization extending to systolic blood pressure (SBP); (ii) a potential correlation between ambulatory and cardiovascular sensitization; and (iii) morphological alterations within meso-striatal, meso-limbic and pontine catecholamine systems including c-fos expression. Locomotor activity, SBP and occurrence of morphological alterations of catecholaminergic neurons were assessed in C57Bl/6J mice following daily i.p. injections of either saline or METH (1, 2 or 5 mg/kg) for 5 consecutive days and following 6 days of withdrawal. Reiterated exposure to the lower doses of METH (1 mg/kg and 2 mg/kg) produced in mice locomotor sensitization without altering SBP. In contrast, repeated treatment with the highest dose of METH (5 mg/kg) produced sensitization of SBP in the absence of locomotor sensitization. No morphological alterations but increases in c-fos expression within neurons of locus coeruleus and nucleus accumbens were detected. The present data suggest that METH produces plastic changes that extend beyond the motor systems to alter autonomic regulation. This cardiovascular sensitization occurs independently of locomotor sensitization. The persistency of increased blood pressure may underlie specific mechanisms operating in producing hypertension. Full article
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Review

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19 pages, 957 KiB  
Review
Anticancer Chemotherapy-Induced Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Comprehensive Review
by Juan S. Izquierdo-Condoy, Marlon Arias-Intriago, Diego Alexander Becerra Cardona, Susana García-Cañarte and Paul Vinueza-Moreano
Life 2025, 15(2), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020245 - 6 Feb 2025
Viewed by 981
Abstract
The introduction of anticancer agents has transformed oncology, significantly improving survival rates. However, these therapies have introduced unintended cardiovascular risks, with atherosclerovascular disease (ASCVD) emerging as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. The development of ASCVD in this population [...] Read more.
The introduction of anticancer agents has transformed oncology, significantly improving survival rates. However, these therapies have introduced unintended cardiovascular risks, with atherosclerovascular disease (ASCVD) emerging as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among cancer survivors. The development of ASCVD in this population involves multifactorial mechanisms, including endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, systemic inflammation, and disrupted lipid metabolism. This review examines the various mechanisms through which anticancer chemotherapy contributes to ASCVD and highlights strategies for risk assessment and management. Each class of anticancer agents presents distinct cardiovascular challenges: anthracyclines induce oxidative stress and endothelial damage, promoting foam cell formation and plaque progression; taxanes and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors impair lipid metabolism and vascular stability; anti-metabolites exacerbate endothelial injury through reactive oxygen species; and mTOR inhibitors, hormonal therapies, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors disrupt lipid profiles and inflammatory pathways, increasing the risk of plaque rupture and thrombosis. Mitigating chemotherapy-induced ASCVD necessitates a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach. Detailed pre-treatment cardiovascular risk assessments must address traditional and cancer-specific risk factors, including demographics, pre-existing conditions, and modifiable behaviors such as smoking and inactivity. Pharmacological interventions like statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, paired with lifestyle modifications, are essential to reducing ASCVD risk. In resource-limited settings, cost-effective strategies should be prioritized to enhance accessibility. Establishing cardio-oncology units facilitates care coordination, while long-term surveillance enables timely detection and intervention. These strategies collectively improve cardiovascular outcomes and survivorship in diverse patient populations. Full article
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11 pages, 964 KiB  
Review
Preventive Cardiovascular Measures in Children with Elevated Blood Pressure
by Mirjam Močnik and Nataša Marčun Varda
Life 2024, 14(8), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14081001 - 12 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1214
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries and are becoming increasingly significant in developing nations. Many cardiovascular risk factors originate early in life, even prenatally. Elevated blood pressure and hypertension are gaining attention in paediatrics due to [...] Read more.
Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries and are becoming increasingly significant in developing nations. Many cardiovascular risk factors originate early in life, even prenatally. Elevated blood pressure and hypertension are gaining attention in paediatrics due to their rising prevalence and impact on early cardiovascular risk in adulthood. Along with non-modifiable risk factors for hypertension, several modifiable factors can be addressed through primordial and primary prevention, emphasising lifestyle modifications. When these measures fail and elevated blood pressure develops, early detection is crucial (secondary prevention). Regular blood pressure measurement, a simple and non-invasive procedure, should be a standard practice in paediatric clinical settings. Diagnosing elevated blood pressure and hypertension should adhere to recommended guidelines. Lifestyle modifications are the first-line therapy for primary hypertension in children; if a secondary cause is identified, targeted treatment can be implemented, but a healthy lifestyle remains essential. The early detection and treatment of high-risk blood pressure enable timely interventions to prevent complications (tertiary prevention). Collectively, these preventive measures aim to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Furthermore, quaternary prevention seeks to avoid unnecessary or harmful medical interventions including unwarranted examinations and pharmacotherapy. This underscores the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment of elevated blood pressure and hypertension and emphasises the need for primordial and primary prevention to minimise unnecessary clinical interventions. Full article
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10 pages, 562 KiB  
Review
The Impact of Peri-Implant Diseases on the General Status of Patients with Cardiovascular Diseases: A Literature Review
by Ana Maria Hofer, Alexandra Dadarlat-Pop, Alexandru Mester, Bogdana Adriana Nasui, Monica Popa and Andrei Picos
Life 2024, 14(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060665 - 23 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1556
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The aim of this study is to connect peri-implantitis to cardiovascular diseases, following the association found between periodontitis and cardiovascular conditions in recent years. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science online databases were searched up to June 2023, [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The aim of this study is to connect peri-implantitis to cardiovascular diseases, following the association found between periodontitis and cardiovascular conditions in recent years. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science online databases were searched up to June 2023, with the exclusion criteria being research written in a language other than English. The MeSH search items were as follows: [“peri-implant health OR peri-implantitis OR peri-implant mucositis OR peri-implant disease”] AND [“cardiovascular diseases”]. Patient/population (P), intervention (I), comparison (C), outcome (O) framework questions were followed to identify the clinical evidence for the systematic review. Only clinical studies that used a control group to compare the relationship between cardiovascular diseases and peri-implantitis were selected. Results: A total of 118 studies were identified through electronic search of the keywords. After removing duplicates, there were 76 records to be screened. Upon exclusion of ineligible titles and abstracts, 27 studies remained for evaluation. Finally, 23 studies were excluded for not meeting the inclusion criteria, leaving 4 studies to be included in the qualitative analyses. Conclusions: This study found there is a linear association between mucosal/gingival inflammation and carotid intima–media thickness test (c-IMT) values. Peri-implant mucosal inflammation could be a contributor to the vascular disease burden of an individual; further specific clinical studies should be performed in order to demonstrate this connection. Full article
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20 pages, 2289 KiB  
Review
Role of Ectopic Olfactory Receptors in the Regulation of the Cardiovascular–Kidney–Metabolic Axis
by Mitchell R. Beito, Sadia Ashraf, Dorcas Odogwu and Romain Harmancey
Life 2024, 14(5), 548; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050548 - 25 Apr 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2754
Abstract
Olfactory receptors (ORs) represent one of the largest yet least investigated families of G protein-coupled receptors in mammals. While initially believed to be functionally restricted to the detection and integration of odors at the olfactory epithelium, accumulating evidence points to a critical role [...] Read more.
Olfactory receptors (ORs) represent one of the largest yet least investigated families of G protein-coupled receptors in mammals. While initially believed to be functionally restricted to the detection and integration of odors at the olfactory epithelium, accumulating evidence points to a critical role for ectopically expressed ORs in the regulation of cellular homeostasis in extranasal tissues. This review aims to summarize the current state of knowledge on the expression and physiological functions of ectopic ORs in the cardiovascular system, kidneys, and primary metabolic organs and emphasizes how altered ectopic OR signaling in those tissues may impact cardiovascular–kidney–metabolic health. Full article
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Other

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14 pages, 12664 KiB  
Case Report
Drug-Induced Complete Atrioventricular Block in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report Highlighting Digoxin-Beta Blocker Interactions and a Paradoxical State
by Cristiana Bustea, Andrei-Flavius Radu, Cosmin Mihai Vesa, Ada Radu, Teodora Maria Bodog, Ruxandra Florina Bodog, Paula Bianca Maghiar and Adrian Marius Maghiar
Life 2025, 15(2), 215; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020215 - 31 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1068
Abstract
Complete atrioventricular (AV) block is a severe conduction abnormality caused by intrinsic cardiac disease, ischemia, electrolyte imbalances, or drug interactions. Elderly patients on multiple medications are particularly vulnerable to polypharmacy-related interactions. This case report describes an 82-year-old female presenting to the emergency department [...] Read more.
Complete atrioventricular (AV) block is a severe conduction abnormality caused by intrinsic cardiac disease, ischemia, electrolyte imbalances, or drug interactions. Elderly patients on multiple medications are particularly vulnerable to polypharmacy-related interactions. This case report describes an 82-year-old female presenting to the emergency department with fatigue, syncope, and disorientation. Her medical history included atrial fibrillation, hypertension, and heart failure, with a medication regimen of digoxin 0.25 mg given daily 5 days out of 7, metoprolol 50 mg twice daily, lisinopril 10 mg daily, furosemide 40 mg daily, and spironolactone 50 mg daily. Clinical examination revealed bradycardia and a holosystolic murmur in the mitral valve area, while the electrocardiogram showed complete AV block at a ventricular rate of 35 bpm. Laboratory results indicated mild hyperkalemia (4.9 mmol/L). Suspecting a digoxin–beta-blocker interaction, antiarrhythmic therapy was discontinued. Within three days, the AV block resolved, transitioning to atrial fibrillation with a high ventricular rate. Bisoprolol was introduced for rate control, and hemodynamic stability was achieved. The patient was discharged with a revised medication regimen and showed no recurrence of AV block. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing drug interactions as a reversible cause of AV block and using drug interaction checkers to manage polypharmacy, especially in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities. It also highlights the rare and paradoxical combination of atrial flutter and complete AV block. Full article
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