Association between serum corin levels and functional capacity in patients with advanced heart failure

Corin is a cardiac protease that plays a role in transforming pro-natriuretic peptides into their active biological forms. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum corin levels and functional capacity in patients with advanced heart failure.

This cross-sectional study included 88 consecutive patients with LVEF (Left ventricular ejection fraction) <25% who were referred to the tertiary cardiovascular center. Serum corin levels were measured using ELISA (Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) prior to CPET (Cardiopulmonary exercise testing). Multivariable linear regression was used to assess the independent association between serum corin levels and peak VO₂ (Peak oxygen consumption).

The mean age was 51.3 ± 12.2 years, and 86.4% were male. The mean peak VO₂ was 13.6 ± 3.99 mL/min/kg and the mean serum corin level was 1.7 ± 0.82 ng/mL. In multivariable analysis, serum corin level was an independent predictor of peak VO₂ (Coefficient: 1.206, 95% CI: 0.527-1.880, p = 0.0007).

Lower serum corin levels are independently associated with reduced functional capacity in advanced heart failure. Corin may serve as a valuable biomarker to complement CPET in clinical evaluation, risk stratification, and treatment planning.