Association between the plasma ceramide and coronary microvascular resistance

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Metabolomics
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Coronary microvascular dysfunction is linked to plasma ceramides.
• The precise relationship between plasma ceramides and coronary microvascular resistance is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between plasma ceramide levels and ratios with coronary microvascular resistance.
• To explore the predictive value of plasma ceramides for coronary microvascular resistance.

Main Methods:

• Single-center observational study of 225 patients undergoing coronary angiography.
• Assessment of coronary microvascular resistance using angiography-derived index of microcirculatory resistance (Angio-IMR).
• Statistical analyses including multiple regression, restricted cubic splines, and ROC curves.

Main Results:

• Plasma 16:0 ceramide and the 16:0/24:0 ceramide ratio were independently associated with cumulative coronary microvascular resistance.
• A significant nonlinear relationship was observed between plasma 16:0 ceramide, the 16:0/24:0 ceramide ratio, and coronary microvascular resistance.
• Optimal cut-off values for predicting high coronary microvascular resistance were identified for plasma 16:0 ceramide and the 16:0/24:0 ceramide ratio.

Conclusions:

• A significant nonlinear relationship exists between plasma ceramides and coronary microvascular resistance.
• These findings have clinical implications for risk stratification in coronary microvascular disease.
• Further research in diverse populations is warranted to confirm these insights.