Hepatocyte growth factor as indicator for subclinical atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Biochemistry
• Medical Diagnostics

Background:

• Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a cytokine produced by mesenchymal cells.
• HGF is released into circulation following endothelial damage, particularly from oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
• HGF is being investigated as a potential clinical biomarker for atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between plasma HGF levels and atherosclerotic plaque burden.
• To evaluate HGF as a potential biomarker for subclinical and clinical atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• An observational, single-center cohort study included 171 patients with cardiovascular risk factors or established cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• 3D plaque volumetry of carotid and femoral arteries was performed.
• Plasma HGF, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and LDL-cholesterol levels were measured.

Main Results:

• HGF showed a significant positive correlation with total plaque volume (TPV) (r=0.48; p<0.001).
• Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis indicated HGF could predict high TPV (AUC=0.68) and the presence of CVD (AUC=0.65).
• HGF demonstrated a sensitivity of 78% for high TPV and 77% for CVD at specific cut-offs.

Conclusions:

• Elevated plasma HGF levels are associated with increased atherosclerotic plaque volume.
• HGF shows potential as a biomarker for assessing atherosclerotic burden and cardiovascular disease risk.