Strategies for pharmacologic modulation of the heart failure phenotype

The end-stage heart failure phenotype is characterized by marked dyspnea on exertion, edema, and overwhelming fatigue, and by a high incidence of sudden death. Patients who display the end-stage phenotype have transitioned from a normal phenotype with myocardial damage at a cellular level. This transition appears to be mediated by events at both the cellular and molecular levels. Until recently, it was generally believed that this transition was irreversible. However, recent clinical trials have demonstrated that the phenotype can be changed with pharmacologic agents. These agents have been demonstrated to improve exercise capability, increase ventricular function, and improve symptoms. Important recent studies have shown that pharmacologic agents can substantially alter the high mortality rates associated with the end-stage heart failure phenotype. As we learn more about the molecular and cellular events that initiate and support the transition from cardiac compensation to decompensation, we will be able to improve our pharmacologic targeting and, we hope, be able to delay the development of the end-stage heart failure phenotype to an even greater degree.