Association between triglyceride-glucose index and endothelial dysfunction.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Syndrome Research

Background:

• The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is a recognized indicator of insulin resistance (IR).
• Previous studies identified the TyG index as a predictor of arterial damage and cardiovascular events.
• The relationship between the TyG index and endothelial dysfunction requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the association between the TyG index and endothelial dysfunction.
• To determine if the TyG index can predict endothelial dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) was utilized to assess endothelial function.
• 840 participants underwent FMD measurements between October 2016 and January 2020.
• The TyG index was calculated using the formula: Ln [fasting triglyceride (mg/dL) × fasting plasma glucose (mg/dL)/2].

Main Results:

• A statistically significant correlation was observed between the TyG index and FMD values (P=0.022).
• An increase in the TyG index was associated with reduced FMD, indicating endothelial dysfunction (β=-0.330, P=0.020).
• The association was significant in specific subgroups: individuals younger than 60, females, and those without diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions:

• Elevated TyG index is associated with a higher likelihood of endothelial dysfunction.
• The TyG index is a significant predictor of endothelial dysfunction, especially in non-diabetic populations.
• These findings underscore the clinical relevance of the TyG index in assessing cardiovascular risk.