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Adrenomedullin in heart failure: potential therapeutic implications
Christopher J Charles1, Miriam T Rademaker, M G Nicholls
1Christchurch Cardioendocrine Research Group, Christchurch School of Medicine and Health Sciences, PO Box 4345, Christchurch, New Zealand. chris.charles@chmeds.ac.nz
Future Cardiology
|October 7, 2009
Summary
Adrenomedullin (AM) shows promise for treating heart failure by improving cardiac function and reducing harmful hormones. This peptide may offer a new therapeutic approach for cardiovascular disease patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Endocrinology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Adrenomedullin (AM) is implicated in heart failure pathophysiology.
- Elevated plasma AM levels correlate with cardiovascular disease severity and prognosis.
- AM levels are a prognostic indicator in acute myocardial infarction and heart failure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Adrenomedullin (AM) in heart failure.
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of AM administration in experimental and human heart failure models.
Main Methods:
- Administration of AM in experimental and human heart failure.
- Combination therapy with AM and ACE inhibitors or NEP inhibitors.
- Assessment of hemodynamic and renal effects.
Main Results:
- AM administration improved cardiac output and reduced arterial and atrial pressures.
- AM inhibited plasma aldosterone and preserved/augmented urinary sodium excretion.
- Combined AM therapy augmented the effects of ACE or NEP inhibition.
Conclusions:
- Adrenomedullin (AM) exhibits beneficial effects in heart failure.
- AM administration improves hemodynamic function and renal parameters.
- Modulating the AM system could be a valuable adjunctive therapy for cardiac diseases.
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