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Relation between C reactive protein concentrations and coronary microvascular endothelial function.
H Teragawa1, Y Fukuda, K Matsuda
1Department of Medicine and Molecular Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima, Japan 734-8551. hteraga@hiroshima-u.ac.jp
Heart (British Cardiac Society)
|June 18, 2004
Summary
Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammation marker, is linked to reduced coronary blood flow response to acetylcholine, indicating impaired endothelial function in resistance vessels.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Biology
- Inflammation Research
Background:
- C-reactive protein (CRP) is a sensitive marker of inflammation.
- Endothelial dysfunction is a key factor in atherosclerosis.
- The relationship between CRP and coronary endothelial function requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and coronary endothelial function.
- To assess the impact of inflammation on coronary blood flow and artery diameter in response to acetylcholine.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative coronary angiography and Doppler flow velocity measurements were used.
- Acetylcholine was infused into the left coronary ostium in patients with normal coronary arteries.
- Patients were stratified based on serum CRP concentrations (normal vs. increased).
Main Results:
- Increased CRP concentrations were observed in 15 out of 46 patients.
- Coronary artery diameter changes were similar between groups.
- Patients with increased CRP showed a significantly smaller increase in coronary blood flow (CBF) in response to acetylcholine.
Conclusions:
- Inflammation, indicated by elevated CRP, is associated with impaired coronary endothelial function in resistance vessels.
- The findings suggest a link between chronic vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in the context of atherosclerosis.