Effects of cardiac resynchronization therapy on insulin-like growth factor-1 in patients with advanced heart failure

Giulio Molon1, Edoardo Adamo, Gaetano M De Ferrari

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Sacro Cuore Hospital, don Calabria, Via don A. Sempreboni, Negrar, Verona, Italy. giulio.molon@sacrocuore.it

Insights

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) significantly increases insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels in advanced heart failure patients. This rise correlates with improved quality of life, suggesting IGF-1 may mediate early symptom relief.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Heart Failure Research

Background:

  • Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is known to improve heart failure symptoms through neurohormonal changes.
  • The specific impact of CRT on insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels remains uninvestigated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect of CRT on plasma IGF-1 levels in patients with advanced heart failure.
  • To explore the correlation between changes in IGF-1, quality of life, and left ventricular (LV) function post-CRT.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of 18 patients with advanced heart failure (NYHA class III/IV, LVEF ≤40%, QRS ≥130ms or dyssynchrony) received CRT.
  • Measurements of IGF-1, quality of life, and LV ejection fraction (LVEF) were taken at baseline and after 3 months of CRT.

Main Results:

  • After 3 months of CRT, significant improvements were observed in LVEF (29% to 33%) and quality of life.
  • Plasma IGF-1 levels increased significantly from 137 ng/ml to 175 ng/ml (P=0.01353).
  • The improvement in quality of life showed a significant correlation with the increase in IGF-1 levels (P=0.02), but not with LVEF changes.

Conclusions:

  • CRT significantly elevates plasma IGF-1 levels within 3 months in patients with advanced heart failure.
  • The increase in IGF-1 is associated with enhanced quality of life, independent of LVEF improvements.
  • IGF-1 may act as an early mediator of symptomatic benefits following CRT.
Abstract

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