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Ghrelin: An Emerging Therapy for Heart Failure
Nikolaos Theodorakis1,2,3,4, Georgios Feretzakis3, Magdalini Kreouzi5
1Department of Cardiology & 65+ Clinic, Sismanogleio-Amalia Fleming General Hospital, Melissia, Greece.
Clinical Endocrinology
|January 6, 2025
Summary
Ghrelin shows promise for heart failure (HF) treatment, improving cardiac output and body mass. Further research is needed to confirm long-term benefits and safety for HF patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ghrelin possesses inotropic, anabolic, and cardioprotective properties relevant to heart failure (HF).
- Preclinical data suggest ghrelin's therapeutic potential in cardiovascular disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review clinical evidence of ghrelin therapy in heart failure (HF).
- To integrate preclinical findings supporting ghrelin's therapeutic role in HF.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of PubMed and Cochrane Library up to September 2024.
- Inclusion of four randomized controlled trials, one open-label trial, one observational study, and key preclinical studies.
- Independent screening and quality assessment by two authors.
Main Results:
- Clinical trials show acute ghrelin administration improves cardiac output by 15-30% in HF patients.
- A 3-week ghrelin course increased maximal oxygen consumption, lean body mass, and grip strength.
- Preclinical studies indicate ghrelin modulates the autonomic nervous system, promotes vasodilation, and prevents adverse cardiac remodeling.
Conclusions:
- Ghrelin is a promising therapeutic agent for HF, offering inotropic, anabolic, and metabolic benefits.
- Further clinical trials are necessary to establish long-term efficacy, safety, and impact on hard clinical endpoints.
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