The Association of Serum Complement C1q with Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Immunology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of mortality globally, with increasing incidence.
• Understanding CAD pathogenesis is crucial for patient health and effective management.
• Serum complement C1q (C1q) is implicated in inflammatory processes relevant to cardiovascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a meta-analysis investigating the association between serum C1q levels and the presence of CAD.
• To provide insights into the potential role of C1q in CAD diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed and Web of Science.
• Inclusion-exclusion criteria were applied by two independent researchers, with quality assessment using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS).
• Statistical analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.3 software.

Main Results:

• Three high-quality studies (NOS score ≥6) involving 2065 participants (1249 CAD patients, 816 controls) were included.
• Meta-analysis revealed significantly higher serum C1q levels in CAD patients compared to healthy controls (P < .05).
• Subgroup analyses indicated that age, sex, sample size, diabetes status, and detection methods did not significantly affect heterogeneity; further data are needed for verification.

Conclusions:

• Elevated serum C1q levels are associated with coronary artery disease.
• The precise role and clinical implications of C1q in CAD require further investigation due to potential dual effects.
• This finding highlights C1q as a potential biomarker for CAD.