The Association Between Testosterone and Vascular Function in Reproductive-Aged Females With Chronic Kidney Disease

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nephrology
• Cardiovascular Medicine

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the primary cause of mortality in women.
• Women with chronic kidney disease (CKD) face a significantly higher risk of CVD.
• Understanding factors influencing vascular function in this population is critical.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between testosterone levels and vascular function in reproductive-aged women with CKD.
• To explore potential links between sex hormone profiles and endothelial function in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• Sixty-one reproductive-aged females with CKD were included in the study.
• Vascular function was assessed using pulse wave velocity, aortic augmentation, flow-mediated dilation (FMD), and velocity time integral.
• Multivariable linear regression analyses were employed to examine relationships.

Main Results:

• No significant associations were found between testosterone levels and measures of vascular function.
• A significant positive association was observed between the testosterone-to-estradiol ratio and FMD.
• Testosterone alone did not independently predict vascular function outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Testosterone levels are not independently associated with vascular dysfunction in reproductive-aged women with CKD.
• The testosterone-to-estradiol ratio may play a role in endothelial function, specifically FMD, in this high-risk group.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of sex hormone balance in cardiovascular health among women with CKD.