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CCN2 (CTGF) gene polymorphism is a novel prognostic risk factor for cardiovascular outcomes in hemodialysis patients

Mario Cozzolino1, Maria Luisa Biondi, Elena Banfi

  • 1Renal Division, S. Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy.

Blood Purification
|November 13, 2010
PubMed

Insights

The CCN2 gene polymorphism (G-945C) GG genotype is a significant predictor of cardiovascular mortality and events like stroke and heart attack in hemodialysis patients. This finding highlights a new risk factor for cardiovascular disease in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in hemodialysis patients, linked to atherosclerosis.
  • CCN2 (connective tissue growth factor) promotes fibrosis and is implicated in atherogenesis.
  • Elevated CCN2 levels are found in atherosclerotic plaques, enhancing monocyte migration.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between CCN2 gene polymorphism (G-945C) and cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients.

Main Methods:

  • 98 hemodialysis patients were genotyped for the CCN2 G-945C polymorphism.
  • Patients were followed for 24 months for cardiovascular events and mortality.
  • Patient characteristics including age, comorbidities, and lifestyle factors were recorded.

Main Results:

  • The GG genotype of the CCN2 G-945C polymorphism was strongly associated with increased cardiovascular mortality (OR 13, p=0.0048).
  • The GG genotype was also significantly associated with major cardiovascular events, including stroke and myocardial infarction, in surviving patients (OR 13.3, p=0.0001).
  • No association was found between CCN2 polymorphism and all-cause mortality.

Conclusions:

  • CCN2 gene polymorphism is identified as a novel prognostic risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in hemodialysis patients.
  • These findings contribute to understanding the mechanisms linking accelerated atherosclerosis to higher mortality rates in hemodialysis populations.
Abstract

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