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Published on: December 19, 2016
Molecular and cellular basis of cardiovascular gender differences
Michael E Mendelsohn1, Richard H Karas
1Molecular Cardiology Research Institute, Department of Medicine, and Division of Cardiology, New England Medical Center Hospitals and Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02111, USA. mmendelsohn@tufts-nemc.org
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk increases after menopause. Understanding gender-specific cardiovascular physiology can improve diagnosis and treatment for both sexes, especially concerning hormone replacement therapy for women.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular physiology and disease
- Endocrinology and women's health
Background:
- Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of death globally.
- CVD incidence is lower in premenopausal women but rises sharply post-menopause.
- Significant cardiovascular gender differences exist, impacting diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review gender differences in cardiovascular molecular and cellular physiology.
- To highlight understudied areas in cardiovascular research.
- To inform the debate on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and women's cardiovascular health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cardiovascular gender differences.
- Analysis of molecular and cellular physiology in heart and blood vessels.
- Examination of research gaps and controversies in women's cardiovascular health.
Main Results:
- Cardiovascular gender differences are evident early in life, preceding overt disease.
- Hormonal changes during menopause significantly impact women's cardiovascular risk.
- Current understanding of cardiovascular physiology in women remains incomplete.
Conclusions:
- Further research into gender-specific cardiovascular biology is crucial.
- Addressing knowledge gaps can refine CVD diagnosis and treatment for all genders.
- Evidence-based strategies are needed to optimize cardiovascular health in women, particularly regarding HRT.
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