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Vascular endothelial growth factor: the link between cardiovascular risk factors and microalbuminuria?

F W Asselbergs1, R A de Boer, G F H Diercks

  • 1Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands. f.w.asselbergs@thorax.azg.nl

International Journal of Cardiology
|February 21, 2004
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Elevated vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the blood is linked to microalbuminuria, a marker of kidney damage. This suggests VEGF may play a role in the development of this condition.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Nephrology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Microalbuminuria, characterized by slightly elevated urinary albumin excretion, is linked to increased cardiovascular risk and morbidity in the general population.
  • It is hypothesized that microalbuminuria indicates increased endothelial permeability, but underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
  • Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is known to increase endothelial permeability.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between plasma vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) levels and microalbuminuria in a large general population sample.
  • To explore the potential role of VEGF in the increased vascular permeability associated with microalbuminuria.

Main Methods:

  • A study was conducted on 189 control subjects (urinary albumin excretion (UAE): 0-30 mg/24 h) and 194 microalbuminuric subjects (UAE: 30-300 mg/24 h).
  • Participants were matched for age, sex, and the presence of electrocardiogram ischemia.
  • Plasma VEGF levels were measured and correlated with UAE, cardiovascular risk factors, and analyzed using logistic regression.

Main Results:

  • Subjects with microalbuminuria exhibited significantly higher plasma VEGF levels compared to controls (p<0.05).
  • Plasma VEGF levels showed statistically significant correlations with systolic and diastolic blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, diabetes, and body mass index.
  • Logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between microalbuminuria and VEGF (odds ratio 1.62; 95% CI: 1.15-2.27; p<0.01), dependent on cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusions:

  • The study suggests a significant relationship between elevated plasma VEGF levels and the subsequent occurrence of microalbuminuria.
  • Increased plasma VEGF may be a contributing factor to the development of microalbuminuria.
  • The association between VEGF and microalbuminuria is influenced by the presence of cardiovascular risk factors.

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