Hypertriglyceridemia: Molecular and Genetic Landscapes

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Metabolic Disorders
• Lipidology

Background:

• Lipid disorders are critical cardiovascular risk factors, yet triglycerides (TGs) receive less attention than LDL cholesterol.
• Elevated TGs are linked to increased risks of coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, stroke, and mortality.
• The precise metabolic pathways and pathophysiological mechanisms connecting TGs to cardiovascular outcomes remain incompletely understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review triglyceride metabolism and identify potential therapeutic targets for hypertriglyceridemia.
• To elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying vascular and cardiac damage associated with elevated TGs.
• To highlight the necessity for advancing therapies aimed at reducing plasma TG levels.

Main Methods:

• This narrative review synthesizes existing literature on triglyceride metabolism and cardiovascular implications.
• It evaluates current understanding of the relationship between TGs and cardiovascular health.
• The review discusses potential therapeutic strategies and future research directions.

Main Results:

• Hypertriglyceridemia presents a substantial risk for coronary heart disease, with risks ranging from 57% to 76%.
• Higher plasma TG concentrations correlate directly with increased incidence and prevalence of mortality, myocardial infarction, and stroke.
• Current knowledge gaps exist regarding the detailed metabolism and specific pathophysiological links between TGs and cardiovascular damage.

Conclusions:

• Elevated triglycerides are a significant, often underappreciated, cardiovascular risk factor.
• A deeper understanding of TG metabolism is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
• Further research and therapeutic advancements are essential to effectively manage hypertriglyceridemia and mitigate cardiovascular risk.