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The JAK-STAT pathway: an emerging target for cardiovascular disease in rheumatoid arthritis and myeloproliferative
Chiara Baldini1, Francesca Romana Moriconi1,2, Sara Galimberti3
1Division of Rheumatology, University of Pisa and Pisa University Hospital, Via Paradisa, 2, Pisa 56124, Italy.
Insights
The JAK-STAT pathway is implicated in rheumatoid arthritis and myeloproliferative neoplasms, increasing cardiovascular risk. Inhibitors may reduce cardiovascular events but require further study for safety, especially regarding prothrombotic effects.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Immunology
- Oncology
Background:
- Inflammation is a key factor in cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
- The Janus kinase-STAT (JAK-STAT) signaling pathway is crucial in inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), which are associated with increased CVD risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on JAK-STAT pathway dysregulation in RA/MPNs and its link to cardiovascular risk.
- To examine the potential cardiovascular effects of JAK-STAT inhibitors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of international studies.
- Analysis of the role of the JAK-STAT pathway in inflammatory and thrombotic processes.
- Evaluation of cytokine profiles (IL-6, IL-1-β, TNF-α, IL-10) and platelet protein expression (PKCε).
Main Results:
- The JAK-STAT pathway promotes inflammation and thrombosis in RA and MPNs.
- Imbalances in pro-inflammatory cytokines and prothrombotic factors are observed.
- The JAK-STAT pathway is also involved in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Conclusions:
- JAK-STAT inhibitors show potential for reducing cardiovascular events in RA/MPNs patients.
- Further research is needed to assess the cardiovascular safety of JAK-STAT inhibitors, particularly concerning prothrombotic risks.
- Careful evaluation of benefits and risks is essential before considering JAK-STAT inhibitors for managing cardiovascular risk in these patient populations.
Abstract:
Inflammation contributes centrally to cardiovascular diseases, and anti-inflammatory treatments can reduce cardiovascular events. The JAK-STAT pathway is an emerging target in inflammation, mainly in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and chronic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), disorders that heighten cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to review the international literature on the relationship between dysregulation of the JAK-STAT pathway in RA/MPNs and cardiovascular risk and on the potential cardiovascular effects of JAK-STAT inhibitors. The JAK-STAT pathway sustains inflammatory and thrombotic events in autoimmune disorders such as RA and MPNs. Here, an imbalance exists between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines [increased levels of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1-β, tumour necrosis factor-α, decreased levels of IL-10] and the over-expression of some prothrombotic proteins, such as protein kinase Cε, on the surface of activated platelets. This pathway also operates in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. JAK-STAT inhibitors may reduce cardiovascular events and related deaths in such conditions, but the potential of these agents requires more studies, especially with regard to cardiovascular safety, and particularly for potential prothrombotic effects. JAK-STAT inhibitors merit consideration to curb heightened cardiovascular risk in patients with RA and MPNs, with rigorous assessment of the potential benefits and risks.
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