Targeting Epicardial/Pericardial Adipose Tissue in Cardiovascular Diseases: A Novel Therapeutic Strategy

Area of Science:

• Cardiology and cardiovascular research.
• Adipose tissue biology and metabolism.
• Pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases.

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent a significant global health burden.
• Epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and pericardial adipose tissue (PAT) are strategically located near the heart and coronary arteries.
• Emerging evidence suggests EAT and PAT play critical roles in cardiac function and vascular health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of the physiological and biological characteristics of EAT and PAT.
• To explore methods for the clinical measurement of EAT and PAT.
• To discuss the involvement of EAT and PAT in major cardiovascular conditions and their potential as therapeutic targets.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of existing research on EAT and PAT.
• Synthesis of data on adipose tissue composition and function.
• Analysis of clinical studies investigating the association between EAT/PAT and cardiovascular diseases.

Main Results:

• EAT and PAT possess distinct physiological and biological properties influencing cardiovascular health.
• Various imaging and non-imaging techniques are available for EAT and PAT assessment.
• Increased EAT and PAT volumes are linked to higher risks of coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.

Conclusions:

• EAT and PAT are metabolically active tissues with significant implications for cardiovascular disease pathogenesis.
• Further research into EAT and PAT could lead to novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
• Targeting EAT and PAT may offer a promising avenue for managing complex cardiovascular conditions.