|
Investigating the Impact of Chronic Stress on Cardiovascular Disease Development: Insights from Epigenetic Changes and the HPA Axis
|
Motahareh Hatami   , Saeed Sadeghian , Nayere Askari , Tooba Ghazanfari |
|
|
|
Abstract: (243 Views) |
Introduction: Stress, an inevitable aspect of life, can yield both short-term and long-lasting effects. Startling statistics reveal that 40% of deaths and 70% of diseases in the United States are linked to stress. Among these, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) take center stage. A leading global health threat, CVDs significantly contribute to mortality and diminished quality of life. Stress stands as a key player among various environmental factors implicated in CVD occurrence. Although the role of psychological factors in CVDs is evident, the precise underlying mechanisms are yet to be fully unraveled. Given the immune system's involvement in atherosclerosis and coronary artery diseases, the impact of chronic stress on immune function has gained attention as a potential bridge between stress and coronary artery diseases. Epigenetic changes are postulated to orchestrate the pathways linking psychological factors to CVDs. Investigating epigenetic alterations, particularly microRNA profiles, offers prospects for identifying new biomarkers to gauge disease risk and progression. The dynamic reversibility of epigenetic changes positions them as potential tools for informing preventive and therapeutic strategies. This study explores the intricate connections among chronic stress, HPA axis function, and specific microRNAs in patients afflicted with premature coronary artery disease (PCAD).
Methods and Materials: The study encompassed 120 adult patients who underwent selective coronary angiography at Tehran Heart Center Hospital, divided into PCAD (n=60) and non-CAD (n=60) groups. The severity of coronary artery disease was assessed by two cardiologists, accompanied by Gensini scoring. Peripheral cytokine levels and TH1/TH2 and TH17/TH reg imbalances were evaluated via ELISA and blood sampling. Cortisol levels were determined using the same methods. Real-time PCR was employed to gauge gene expression and microRNA levels in freshly isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
Results: Findings underscore a significant correlation between HPA axis alterations and PCAD incidence. Notably, HPA axis function exhibited a pronounced relationship with circulating cytokine levels in patients. Within the realm of studied microRNAs, 155, 25, and 325 microRNAs demonstrated significant statistical associations with both HPA axis changes and circulating cytokine levels.
Conclusion: This study enhances our comprehension of the intricate interplay between chronic stress, HPA axis function, and microRNA dynamics in the context of premature coronary artery disease. By unraveling these intricate connections, we move closer to more effective preventive and therapeutic interventions for individuals at risk. |
|
| Keywords: Chronic stress, HPA axis, microRNAs, cytokines, cardiovascular diseases |
|
|
Full-Text [PDF 276 kb]
(34 Downloads)
|
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2024/02/12 | Accepted: 2023/08/23 | Published: 2023/08/23
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Send email to the article author |
|
|
|
| Add your comments about this article |
|
|
|
