Uric acid: from a biological advantage to a potential danger. A focus on cardiovascular effects

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Vascular Health

Background:

• Non-communicable diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases, are leading global causes of death.
• Traditional cardiovascular risk factors include smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and male gender.
• Emerging research highlights uric acid as a potential new cardiovascular risk factor.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically evaluate the scientific evidence regarding the role of uric acid in cardiovascular diseases.
• To clarify the controversial relationship between hyperuricemia and cardiovascular pathology.
• To distinguish between uric acid as a causative risk factor versus a marker of cardiovascular damage.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating uric acid and cardiovascular outcomes.
• Analysis of evidence supporting hyperuricemia's role in metabolic and vascular disorders.
• Examination of research presenting uric acid as a marker of existing cardiovascular damage.

Main Results:

• Multiple studies suggest a direct association between hyperuricemia and the development of metabolic and vascular issues.
• Contrasting findings indicate that elevated uric acid may only reflect, not cause, cardiovascular damage.
• The precise role of uric acid in cardiovascular disease pathogenesis remains debated.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between uric acid and cardiovascular disease requires further elucidation.
• Distinguishing between uric acid as a risk factor and a marker is crucial for effective prevention strategies.
• Continued research is needed to resolve the current ambiguity surrounding hyperuricemia's impact on heart health.