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Search Results (1,670)

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15 pages, 666 KB  
Article
IgG N-Glycosylation During Atorvastatin Therapy After Acute Coronary Syndrome is Associated with LDL Cholesterol Reduction
by Domagoj Mišković, Nikol Mraz, Barbara Radovani Trbojević, Ivana Jurin, Ana Đanić Hadžibegović, Ivan Gudelj, Gordan Lauc and Irzal Hadžibegović
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(8), 3056; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15083056 - 16 Apr 2026
Abstract
Background/Objective: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycosylation is an important regulator of immune function and systemic inflammation and has been associated with cardiometabolic diseases. However, little is known about how IgG glycosylation changes during the course of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and whether these [...] Read more.
Background/Objective: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) N-glycosylation is an important regulator of immune function and systemic inflammation and has been associated with cardiometabolic diseases. However, little is known about how IgG glycosylation changes during the course of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and whether these alterations relate to lipid-lowering response after the initiation of statin therapy. The primary aim of this study was to investigate IgG N-glycosylation following ACS and evaluate its association with response to atorvastatin therapy defined as baseline LDL cholesterol reduction of ≥50%. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, 79 statin-naïve patients hospitalized for the first episode of ACS and treated with atorvastatin 80 mg daily after percutaneous coronary intervention were followed longitudinally. Plasma samples were collected at admission (acute phase), discharge (subacute phase), and follow-up (chronic phase). A control group of 21 individuals received atorvastatin for primary prevention. IgG was isolated from plasma, and N-glycans were released, fluorescently labeled with 2-aminobenzamide, and analyzed using hydrophilic interaction-based ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Derived glycan traits were calculated, including agalactosylated (G0), monogalactosylated (G1), digalactosylated (G2), core fucosylated (F), bisected (B), and sialylated (S) glycans. Results: No significant differences in derived IgG glycan traits were observed between ACS patients and controls at baseline or follow-up. Within the ACS group, a longitudinal analysis revealed significant increases in G0 and F and a decrease in G2 between the acute and chronic phases. A total of 65% of patients achieved ≥50% reduction in LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), whereas only 22% reached the guideline-recommended LDL-C target of <1.4 mmol/L. Patients achieving ≥50% LDL-C reduction exhibited consistently higher G0 and lower G2 and S across disease phases. In a subgroup of patients with baseline LDL-C >3.9 mmol/L, those who failed to achieve ≥50% LDL-C reduction had significantly lower G0 and higher S across all time points. Conclusions: Specific glycan traits are associated with the degree of LDL-C reduction achieved during statin therapy, particularly in patients with high baseline LDL-C. These findings suggest that IgG glycosylation patterns may reflect biological phenotypes associated with differential lipid-lowering responsiveness after ACS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Medicine)
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26 pages, 1092 KB  
Review
ABCG2 Genetic Variability in Drug Exposure and Toxicity: Implications for Clinical Practice
by Tamara Božina, Livija Šimičević, Lana Ganoci, Mila Lovrić, Iva Klarica Domjanović, Vladimir Trkulja and Nada Božina
Toxics 2026, 14(4), 327; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics14040327 - 15 Apr 2026
Viewed by 277
Abstract
The ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2), also known as breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), is an efflux transporter expressed in key pharmacokinetic tissues and biological barriers. It regulates exposure to many endogenous compounds, drugs, and environmental toxins. Genetic variability in ABCG2 [...] Read more.
The ATP-binding cassette subfamily G member 2 (ABCG2), also known as breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), is an efflux transporter expressed in key pharmacokinetic tissues and biological barriers. It regulates exposure to many endogenous compounds, drugs, and environmental toxins. Genetic variability in ABCG2 has been recognised as an important contributor to interindividual variability in drug response, especially in terms of efficacy and toxicity. This narrative review summarises current knowledge on the clinical relevance of ABCG2 genetic variants, with a focus on their effects on pharmacokinetics, adverse drug reactions and drug–drug–gene interactions, as well as their potential implementation in personalised therapy. A literature search was performed in PubMed, Scopus and the Clinical Pharmacogenomics Database (ClinPGx), with an emphasis on clinically relevant studies and available pharmacogenomic guidelines. The most investigated ABCG2 variant, c.421C>A (rs2231142; p.Gln141Lys), is consistently associated with reduced transporter activity and increased systemic exposure to several substrate drugs, including statins, allopurinol and anticancer agents, which may influence both treatment response and the risk of toxicity. Although growing evidence supports the clinical relevance of ABCG2 genotyping, its routine implementation remains limited. Integration of ABCG2 variability into polygenic models and clinical decision-support tools may further improve individualised treatment, particularly in patients with multimorbidity and polypharmacy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drug Metabolism and Toxicological Mechanisms—2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 777 KB  
Review
Statins and Fibrates in Age-Related Macular Degeneration: A Contemporary Clinical Narrative Review (2020–2025)
by Weronika Dmoch, Julia Sawicka, Natalia Żelichowska, Zuzanna Kępczyńska, Piotr Maciejewicz and Dariusz Kęcik
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(8), 2960; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15082960 - 14 Apr 2026
Viewed by 230
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains the leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in the elderly. Increasing attention has been directed toward lipid metabolism as a potential contributor to disease onset and progression. The overlap between AMD and atherosclerosis—particularly regarding lipid accumulation, endothelial [...] Read more.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) remains the leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in the elderly. Increasing attention has been directed toward lipid metabolism as a potential contributor to disease onset and progression. The overlap between AMD and atherosclerosis—particularly regarding lipid accumulation, endothelial dysfunction, and chronic inflammation—has prompted interest in lipid-lowering therapies. This narrative review synthesizes the clinical evidence published between 2020 and 2025 on the potential role of statins and fenofibrate in AMD risk modification and disease progression. A structured literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science using combined MeSH and free-text terms related to lipid-lowering agents and AMD. Human studies evaluating clinical incidence or progression outcomes were considered alongside contextual evidence from prior evidence syntheses. Overall, findings remain heterogeneous. Most studies did not demonstrate a consistent association between statin therapy and AMD incidence or progression in unselected populations. However, selected reports suggested a potential delay in dry AMD onset or slower disease progression among patients receiving prolonged or higher-intensity statin treatment. Evidence regarding fenofibrate was more limited and heterogeneous, with only a tentative protective signal observed in adherent users, particularly for non-exudative AMD. The current literature does not support lipid-lowering therapy as a universal preventive strategy for AMD. Nonetheless, subgroup-specific benefits cannot be excluded, especially in early disease stages or metabolically high-risk populations. Further well-designed prospective and randomized studies are needed to clarify therapeutic relevance and identify the patients who are most likely to benefit. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ophthalmology)
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13 pages, 418 KB  
Systematic Review
Injectable Lipid-Lowering Therapies in Chronic Kidney Disease: Efficacy, Outcomes, Safety and Implementation—A Systematic Review
by Joshua Louis Davies, Yimeng Zhang, Inuri Patabendi, Sudarshan Ramachandran and Jyoti Baharani
BioMed 2026, 6(2), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomed6020011 - 12 Apr 2026
Viewed by 286
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovasc{Citation}ular disease accounts for 50% of chronic kidney disease (CKD) mortality, yet fewer than 40% of patients achieve guideline LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) targets on statins. Injectable lipid-lowering therapies (ILLTs)—PCSK9 inhibitors and inclisiran—offer 50–70% LDL-C reductions but lack comprehensive CKD-specific evidence synthesis. This [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cardiovasc{Citation}ular disease accounts for 50% of chronic kidney disease (CKD) mortality, yet fewer than 40% of patients achieve guideline LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) targets on statins. Injectable lipid-lowering therapies (ILLTs)—PCSK9 inhibitors and inclisiran—offer 50–70% LDL-C reductions but lack comprehensive CKD-specific evidence synthesis. This systematic review evaluated ILLT efficacy, safety, and implementation across kidney function stages including dialysis. Methods: Following PROSPERO registration (CRD42024612594), we searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and Google Scholar (1995–August 2025). Two reviewers independently screened studies using PICOS criteria: adults with CKD stages G3-G5, dialysis, or transplant recipients receiving injectable lipid therapies. Primary outcomes were LDL-C percentage change and major adverse cardiovascular events. Quality was assessed using NIH tools. Given heterogeneity, we performed narrative synthesis following SWiM guidance. Results: Eight studies (n = 28,013) met the criteria. The FOURIER trial demonstrated that evolocumab achieved 58–59% LDL-C reductions across kidney function strata (interaction p = 0.77) with preserved cardiovascular benefit (HR 0.82–0.89). Absolute risk reduction was greater in advanced CKD (2.5% vs. 1.7%), reflecting higher baseline rates. Pharmacokinetic studies showed no eGFR-exposure correlation requiring dose adjustment; evolocumab was not removed by haemodialysis. Inclisiran achieved a 67–80% PCSK9 reduction and a 35–58% LDL-C reduction across renal groups, with twice-yearly maintenance dosing. Both classes reduced non-HDL-C (45–50%), apoB (40–45%), and lipoprotein(a) (20–25%). Safety was favourable, with mild injection-site reactions (< 5%); no renal decline signals emerged. Conclusions: Evidence for injectable lipid-lowering therapies in CKD are driven largely by a single large post hoc subgroup analysis (FOURIER) and small phase 1–2 PK/PD studies, with minimal dialysis representation and no transplant data. These agents appear to provide substantial LDL-C reductions across CKD stages G3–G5 without dose adjustment, but cardiovascular and renal outcome data in advanced CKD and dialysis remain limited and should be interpreted cautiously. Full article
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17 pages, 2447 KB  
Article
Statins Support the Antitumor Activity of Somatostatin Analogues in Advanced Bronchopulmonary Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Clinical and In Vitro Study
by Giulia Pecora, Camilla Mancini, Francesca Fabretti, Aloima Yera, Sara Cecchini, Eleonora Pica, Flaminia Russo, Virginia Zamponi, Rossella Mazzilli, Francesca Belleudi, Maria Rosaria Ricciardi, Francesco Panzuto and Antongiulio Faggiano
Lipidology 2026, 3(2), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/lipidology3020012 - 11 Apr 2026
Viewed by 217
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Metabolic alterations, including dyslipidemia, may influence tumor biology and treatment outcomes in neuroendocrine tumors. However, the clinical relevance of dyslipidemia and lipid-lowering therapy in bronchopulmonary neuroendocrine tumors (BP-NETs) treated with somatostatin analogues (SSAs) remains poorly defined. This translational proof-of-concept study evaluated progression-free [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Metabolic alterations, including dyslipidemia, may influence tumor biology and treatment outcomes in neuroendocrine tumors. However, the clinical relevance of dyslipidemia and lipid-lowering therapy in bronchopulmonary neuroendocrine tumors (BP-NETs) treated with somatostatin analogues (SSAs) remains poorly defined. This translational proof-of-concept study evaluated progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with advanced BP-NETs receiving SSAs according to dyslipidemia and statin therapy and explored the effects of statin-SSA combination treatment in vitro. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 24 patients with advanced well-differentiated BP-NETs treated with SSAs as first-line therapy. Fourteen patients (58.3%) had dyslipidemia, and 11 of them were receiving statins. In parallel, NCI-H727 cells were treated with atorvastatin (10 µM), lanreotide (5 or 10 µM), or their combination for 48–72 h. Cell viability, proliferation, cell death, apoptosis, DNA damage, and ATP production were assessed. Results: Median PFS was 22.5 months overall. A trend toward longer PFS was observed in non-dyslipidemic vs. dyslipidemic patients (70 vs. 36 months, p = 0.08). Among dyslipidemic patients, statin therapy was associated with a non-significant trend toward longer PFS compared with no statin therapy (36 vs. 18 months, p = 0.30). In vitro, combined atorvastatin–lanreotide treatment reduced cell viability and proliferation, increased cell death, enhanced cleaved caspase-3 and p-γH2AX expression, and reduced ATP production. Conclusions: These findings support the potential relevance of lipid metabolism modulation as an adjunct strategy in advanced BP-NETs while highlighting the need for larger prospective studies and dedicated biochemical investigation of the underlying lipid-related pathways. Full article
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12 pages, 761 KB  
Article
Cardiovascular Diseases Among Kidney Transplant Recipients at National Guard Hospital—Jeddah
by Nadia O. Elamin, Hala E. Danish, Razan O. Bawazir, Renad F. Alharthy, Renad I. Katib, Joud M. Alharthy, Maryam N. Alotibi and Turki A. Banamah
Healthcare 2026, 14(8), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare14080987 - 9 Apr 2026
Viewed by 189
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the second leading cause of death among kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). CVD risks post-transplantation increase with aging, obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, inactivity, sleep disturbances, immunosuppressant medications use, and graft dysfunction. This study assessed CVD prevalence and risk factors [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the second leading cause of death among kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). CVD risks post-transplantation increase with aging, obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, inactivity, sleep disturbances, immunosuppressant medications use, and graft dysfunction. This study assessed CVD prevalence and risk factors among KTRs. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at National Guard Hospital, Jeddah between 2012–2022. Information was collected from the patients’ medical records. Physical activity, sleep, and adherence to immunosuppressant therapy were evaluated via interviews with adult KTRs using the International Physical Activity Scale, Jenkins Sleep Scale, and Immunosuppressant Therapy Barrier Adherence Scale, respectively. Results: Sixty-four KTRs were included: 67% were males, and the median age was 44.7 years. Eighteen patients (28.1%) had CVD, and 61.1% of them developed ischemic heart disease. KTRs with CVD were older, had lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and higher Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), but these differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Patients with CVD had significantly lower LDL (p = 0.02) and more aspirin and statin use (p < 0.05). Forty-five patients (70.3%) completed the interview; most of them had few sleep disturbances and good adherence to immunosuppressant therapy. Low physical activity was reported by KTRs with CVD. Conclusions: CVD was present in over one-quarter of KTRs. Patients with CVD were older, less active, had lower GFR, higher HbA1c, and significantly lower LDL. More use of aspirin and statin improved the glycemic control, physical activity, and medication adherence, and may help in reducing CVD burden among KTRs. Full article
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16 pages, 881 KB  
Article
Association of Statin Use with Reduced Primary Liver Cancer Risk, Independent of Age and Cirrhosis Protection in MASLD
by Georgia Sofia Karachaliou, Amy M. Perkins, Chad Dorn, Ruth M. Reeves, Timothy Arnold, Mustafa R. Bashir, Jimmy T. Efird, Manal F. Abdelmalek, Anna Mae Diehl and Ayako Suzuki
Cancers 2026, 18(7), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers18071132 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 516
Abstract
Background: Statins have been associated with a reduced risk of primary liver cancer (PLC), primarily hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the optimal use for effective protection and whether benefits vary by patient characteristics remain unclear. We evaluated the association between statin use and PLC [...] Read more.
Background: Statins have been associated with a reduced risk of primary liver cancer (PLC), primarily hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the optimal use for effective protection and whether benefits vary by patient characteristics remain unclear. We evaluated the association between statin use and PLC risk in metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), considering cumulative exposure and potential effect modifiers. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Veteran Affairs electronic health records. Patients with chronically elevated liver enzymes and metabolic dysfunction, without other chronic liver diseases, were identified between 2007 and 2009 and followed through 2019 for incident PLC. Statin exposure was assessed at baseline and during the follow-up, with dose standardization by LDL-lowering potency (simvastatin-equivalent units). Time to PLC was analyzed using Cox models adjusted for covariates, considering potential interactions. Results: Among 329,577 patients (92% male; median age 62 years), 0.82% developed PLC (median follow-up of 9.7 years). Baseline statin use showed a significantly lower PLC risk (adjusted hazard ratio 0.64; 95% CI, 0.57–0.71; p < 0.0001). No significant interaction was observed with age, sex, metabolic syndrome, or cirrhosis. Higher cumulative statin exposure demonstrated a dose-dependent risk reduction, remaining significant at simvastatin-equivalent doses > 15,561 mg annually after accounting for incident cirrhosis. Atorvastatin/rosuvastatin use provided comparable protection, despite different lipophilicity, and demonstrated stronger effects than others. Conclusions: In MASLD, statin therapy was associated with a dose-dependent PLC risk reduction. High-intensity therapy (simvastatin-equivalent > 40 mg daily) conferred substantial protection regardless of age, sex, insulin resistance, or cirrhosis, supporting a potential statin-based PLC chemoprevention in MASLD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cancer Therapy)
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8 pages, 330 KB  
Case Report
Non-Responder to Inclisiran and Evolocumab—A Female Patient with Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia and Statin Intolerance
by Paweł Muszyński, Małgorzata Chlabicz, Joanna Kruszyńska, Katarzyna Wilk-Śledziewska, Piotr Kazberuk, Dominika Musiałowska, Monika Groth and Kinga Dudzińska
Diseases 2026, 14(4), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases14040125 - 1 Apr 2026
Viewed by 306
Abstract
Despite the availability of numerous lipid-lowering agents, the treatment of lipid disorders remains a public health challenge. A substantial portion of patients, especially those with severe dyslipidemia or familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), fail to achieve the LDL-C goal. The leading causes of suboptimal LDL-C [...] Read more.
Despite the availability of numerous lipid-lowering agents, the treatment of lipid disorders remains a public health challenge. A substantial portion of patients, especially those with severe dyslipidemia or familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), fail to achieve the LDL-C goal. The leading causes of suboptimal LDL-C control include underprescription and poor adherence; however, in rare cases, it may result from an unusual biological response to treatment. In the presented case, a 78-year-old female with a history of transient ischemic attack and myocardial infarction was diagnosed with a heterozygous variant of FH and true statin intolerance following trials of simvastatin, rosuvastatin and pitavastatin. Initially, inclisiran was added to ezetimibe, leading to an unexpected increase in LDL-C. Due to the patient’s refusal of another statin re-challenge and the unavailability of bempedoic acid, nutraceuticals were introduced. After 6 months, inclisiran was discontinued because only a 22% reduction in LDL-C was achieved, likely attributable to the nutraceutical’s effect. Another PCSK9 inhibitor, evolocumab, was subsequently initiated. Shortly after the treatment onset, the patient complained of paraesthesia in the upper extremities and discontinued therapy. LDL-C levels increased by 7% after one month of treatment with evolocumab. The patient refused treatment with lipid apheresis. Possible causes of poor response to PCSK9 inhibitors include elevated lipoprotein(a) and FH. Full article
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44 pages, 1329 KB  
Review
New Personalized Medicine Model for Medication Management
by Kannayiram Alagiakrishnan, Tyler Halverson, Desiree Virginia Fermin Olivares and Cheryl A. Sadowski
J. Pers. Med. 2026, 16(4), 182; https://doi.org/10.3390/jpm16040182 - 27 Mar 2026
Viewed by 769
Abstract
When using traditional approaches, such as pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, the entire cellular or molecular response to drugs in the body cannot be fully ascertained or established. The oral medication process involves pharmacokinetics, followed by oral microbiomics and then gut microbiomics and pharmacodynamics. Recently, [...] Read more.
When using traditional approaches, such as pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, the entire cellular or molecular response to drugs in the body cannot be fully ascertained or established. The oral medication process involves pharmacokinetics, followed by oral microbiomics and then gut microbiomics and pharmacodynamics. Recently, there has been increasing interest in the role of genetics (pharmacogenetics and pharmacogenomics) in both humans and microbiomes, as well as omics alterations (e.g., epigenetic, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic alterations as a consequence of drug exposure), which can help to ascertain the cellular responses to medications. Both the efficacy and toxicity of a drug are influenced by these factors. To assess these at an individual level, an integrative Personalized Medicine Model may be needed to help with medication management. Two example application cases for SSRIs and statins demonstrate the clinical usefulness of such a model, which can guide clinicians during drug selection and dosing to reduce reliance on trial-and-error, thus potentially improving patient outcomes and safety. Integrating this framework into practical clinical workflows requires the capture, analysis, and translation of multi-omics data in order to realize decision support protocols and actionable drug recommendations. This review also discusses IT requirements and different stakeholder roles. Although the proposed model can guide the treatment of diseases at the individual patient level, further research is still needed before it can be implemented as part of drug development research, clinical care, and healthcare delivery systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacogenetics)
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14 pages, 1414 KB  
Article
Impact of Long-Term Statin Therapy on Influenza Incidence and Overall Mortality: A Real-World Data Analysis
by Diana Toledo, Àurea Cartanyà-Hueso, Constança Pagès-Fernández, Rosa Morros, Maria Giner-Soriano, Àngela Domínguez, Carles Vilaplana-Carnerero, Alba Tor-Roca and María Grau
Pharmacoepidemiology 2026, 5(2), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharma5020010 - 26 Mar 2026
Viewed by 303
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The study’s goal is to assess the association between long-term statin therapy and influenza incidence, influenza severity, and all-cause mortality. Methods: Two population-based dynamic cohorts (exposed and unexposed to statins) were followed from 2010 to 2019. Participants were 60 years [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The study’s goal is to assess the association between long-term statin therapy and influenza incidence, influenza severity, and all-cause mortality. Methods: Two population-based dynamic cohorts (exposed and unexposed to statins) were followed from 2010 to 2019. Participants were 60 years or older; frail patients were excluded. The primary outcomes were influenza incidence, influenza-related intensive care unit (ICU) admission as a proxy for severity, and all-cause mortality. The exposed cohort comprised new statin users with a minimum of two pharmacy invoices within 90 days of enrollment. Adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) for influenza incidence, ICU admission, and mortality rate were calculated using Poisson regression. Results: The initial study population of 639,564 individuals was evenly split into exposed (319,782) and unexposed (319,782) cohorts; mean age was 71 years (standard deviation: 8 years), and 57% were women. Compared to non-users, new statin users showed a higher influenza incidence [9.39 (95% confidence interval: 9.36–9.42) vs. 7.64 (7.61–7.66) per 1000 person-years], ICU admission [1.65 (1.65–1.66) vs. 1.36 (1.35–1.36) per 1000 person-years], and overall mortality rate [97.09 (96.75–97.43) vs. 94.15 (93.82–94.47) per 1000 person-years]. Adjusted analysis revealed no significant association between statin use and influenza incidence [aRR: 1.04 (0.98–1.10)] or influenza-related ICU admission [aRR: 1.03 (0.89–1.19)] and shifted the effect on mortality from harmful to beneficial [aRR: 0.88 (0.87–0.89)]. Conclusions: Despite new users’ greater vulnerability at the start of treatment, our findings indicate that statins do not influence influenza incidence or severity but reduce all-cause mortality, warranting further exploration of their anti-inflammatory properties. Full article
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25 pages, 5407 KB  
Article
Anti-Tumor Effects of Statins in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Cells
by Veronika Kucháriková, Zuzana Hatoková, Eva Baranovičová, Bibiána Baďurová, Tereza Pavlišová, Lucia Kotúľová, Michal Kalman, Juraj Marcinek, Oľga Chodelková, Slavomíra Nováková, Ján Strnádel, Henrieta Škovierová and Erika Halašová
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(7), 2972; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27072972 - 25 Mar 2026
Viewed by 363
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has limited effective therapeutic strategies. Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase and may affect tumor cell fitness via the mevalonate pathway, mitochondrial function, and redox homeostasis. We systematically compared seven statins in patient-derived PDAC cell lines and related viability [...] Read more.
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has limited effective therapeutic strategies. Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase and may affect tumor cell fitness via the mevalonate pathway, mitochondrial function, and redox homeostasis. We systematically compared seven statins in patient-derived PDAC cell lines and related viability effects to mitochondrial, redox, cell-cycle, apoptotic, and metabolic responses. Statins were tested in three PDAC cell lines (PDAC-1/2/3) using MTT assays (5–20 µM; 24–120 h). Based on MTT responses, mechanistic profiling was performed after 72 h at 20 µM concentration using lipophilic statins, including apoptosis (Annexin V/7-AAD), cell-cycle distribution, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), intracellular ROS, and 1H-NMR quantification of intracellular and extracellular metabolites. Statins reduced viability in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, with lipophilic statins more active than hydrophilic. PDAC-1 was highly sensitive, PDAC-3 intermediate, and PDAC-2 comparatively resistant. PDAC-1 and PDAC-3 showed G0/G1 accumulation, Δψm depolarization, reactive oxygen species (ROS) elevation, and Annexin V–positive apoptosis, whereas PDAC-2 (high basal ROS) showed ROS reduction and limited apoptosis despite Δψm loss. Metabolomics indicated reduced glucose and amino-acid utilization and lactate secretion while preserving line-specific metabolic fingerprints. PDAC cell lines display marked inter-tumoral heterogeneity in statin responses, supporting evaluation of statins as chemosensitizing adjuvants in functionally guided PDAC treatment strategies. Full article
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12 pages, 873 KB  
Article
Anatomy-Specific Association of Circulating Sortilin with Proximal Left Anterior Descending Artery Obstruction
by Alim Namitokov, Irina Gilevich, Olga Malyarevskaya, Natalia Iraklionova, Karina Karabakhtsieva and Dana Namitokova
Cardiovasc. Med. 2026, 29(2), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/cardiovascmed29020013 - 25 Mar 2026
Viewed by 256
Abstract
Background: Sortilin (SORT1), linked to the 1p13.3 coronary risk locus, is implicated in lipid trafficking and atherogenesis; however, clinical studies of circulating SORT1 have produced inconsistent results. We evaluated whether circulating SORT1 is associated with angiographic burden and lesion localization in patients with [...] Read more.
Background: Sortilin (SORT1), linked to the 1p13.3 coronary risk locus, is implicated in lipid trafficking and atherogenesis; however, clinical studies of circulating SORT1 have produced inconsistent results. We evaluated whether circulating SORT1 is associated with angiographic burden and lesion localization in patients with premature or early clinical debut coronary atherosclerosis. Methods: This single-center, cross-sectional study analyzed a dataset collected from January to May 2023. Participants were classified as coronary atherosclerosis cases if the dataset contained an age of clinical debut of clinically significant atherosclerosis (n = 101). Controls had no recorded debut age and 0% stenosis in all assessed coronary segments (n = 27). Blood was collected in clot activator tubes; serum was stored at −40 °C until analysis. SORT1 (ng/mL) was measured using an Aviscera Bioscience ELISA. Coronary stenoses were recorded as percent diameter stenosis for left main (LM), proximal/mid/distal LAD, proximal/mid/distal LCx, and proximal/mid/distal RCA. Burden metrics included the number of segments with any stenosis (>0%), the number of obstructive segments (≥50%), the number of diseased vessels, and maximum stenosis. The prespecified primary endpoint was obstructive proximal LAD stenosis (≥50%). Nonparametric tests and Spearman correlations were used. Logistic regression evaluated the association between log2-transformed SORT1 and proximal LAD obstruction, adjusted for age, sex, LDL-C, statin use, and smoking/diabetes/hypertension durations. Results: SORT1 was higher in cases than controls (8.60 [2.60–17.10] vs. 2.30 [1.25–10.65] ng/mL; p = 0.0058). Within cases, SORT1 did not correlate with global angiographic burden (any-stenosis segments: ρ = −0.066, p = 0.513; obstructive segments: ρ = −0.060, p = 0.552; diseased vessels: ρ = −0.045, p = 0.652; maximum stenosis: ρ = −0.084, p = 0.403). Obstructive proximal LAD stenosis occurred in 44/101 (43.6%) and was associated with higher SORT1 (12.25 [4.18–17.45] vs. 4.10 [2.20–11.60] ng/mL; p = 0.0093). Each doubling of SORT1 was independently associated with proximal LAD obstruction (adjusted OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.12–1.95; p = 0.005). Conclusions: In this cross-sectional cohort, circulating SORT1 was associated with obstructive proximal LAD stenosis but not with global angiographic burden metrics. These findings are hypothesis-generating and warrant validation in independent cohorts with standardized preanalytics and prospective designs to assess temporal relationships and clinical utility. Full article
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18 pages, 1920 KB  
Article
Pharmacogenetic Associations with Statin Regimen Modification, Intolerance, and Adverse Outcomes in Coronary Artery Disease Patients
by Rania Abdel-latif, Shaban Mohammed, Mohamad Saad, Khalid Kunji, Wadha Al-Muftah, Ayman El-Menyar and Jassim Al Suwaidi
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(3), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19030514 - 21 Mar 2026
Viewed by 404
Abstract
Background: Statins are central to primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease but are often underutilized due to myopathy and intolerance. While individual pharmacogenetic (PGx) variants, particularly in SLCO1B1, are linked to statin-associated muscle symptoms, the real-world impact of both [...] Read more.
Background: Statins are central to primary and secondary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease but are often underutilized due to myopathy and intolerance. While individual pharmacogenetic (PGx) variants, particularly in SLCO1B1, are linked to statin-associated muscle symptoms, the real-world impact of both clinical and cumulative PGx burden on regimen modification and adverse outcomes remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the existing uncertainty regarding whether combined PGx scores can effectively guide statin dose titration and regimen modification, thereby filling a key clinical gap. Methods: A retrospective cohort study of 911 statin-treated patients with coronary artery disease was conducted from the Qatar Cardiovascular Biorepository with available whole-genome sequencing data. Variants in SLCO1B1, ABCG2, and CYP2C9 were combined into a functional PGx burden score, and their associations with statin regimen modification, intolerance, myopathy, liver injury, adherence, and composite adverse events were evaluated. The composite adverse events were defined as the occurrence of any statin-related adverse event, including statin-associated myopathy, liver injury, or poor medication adherence, during the follow-up period. Patients were classified as having experienced the composite outcome if at least one of these events occurred. Results: Over 12 months following statin initiation, 10.2% of patients underwent dose escalation, 11.4% de-escalation, and 78.4% remained on the same regimen. PGx burden is not statistically significantly associated with statin intolerance (OR 1.14; 95% CI: 0.73–1.76), composite adverse outcome (OR 1.08; 95% CI 0.82–1.42), or time to regimen change (HR 1.02; 95% CI 0.77–1.35). However, higher PGx burden showed a directional tendency toward dose de-escalation (RRR 1.18, 95% CI 0.76–1.84) and lower likelihood of escalation (RRR 0.93, 95% CI 0.56–1.54). Conclusions: Clinical factors, particularly statin intensity and myopathy, were the primary determinants of regimen modification. The PGx burden contributes to vulnerability to statin-related adverse effects in a context-dependent manner but does not independently drive statin regimen modification in routine clinical practice. Prospective studies are warranted to assess the clinical utility of PGx-guided workflows in statin therapy. Full article
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11 pages, 246 KB  
Article
The Role of Immune Dysregulation Markers in Cardiovascular Risk of People Living with HIV: Association Among Intima Media Changes, CD4/CD8 Ratio, and CD4+ Cell Count Nadir
by Manuela Ceccarelli, Elena Delfina Ricci, Camilla Muccini, Laura Galli, Sergio Ferrara, Alessandra Tartaglia, Benedetto Maurizio Celesia, Elio Manzillo, Alessandra Guida, Giovanni Di Filippo, Rosa Basile, Antonella Castagna and Paolo Maggi
Viruses 2026, 18(3), 383; https://doi.org/10.3390/v18030383 - 18 Mar 2026
Viewed by 471
Abstract
HIV infection can promote persistent immune activation and endothelial dysfunction, contributing to atherosclerosis. Carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT) is an established marker of subclinical atherosclerosis. We evaluated the association between cIMT severity and two routinely available markers of immune dysregulation (CD4/CD8 ratio and nadir [...] Read more.
HIV infection can promote persistent immune activation and endothelial dysfunction, contributing to atherosclerosis. Carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT) is an established marker of subclinical atherosclerosis. We evaluated the association between cIMT severity and two routinely available markers of immune dysregulation (CD4/CD8 ratio and nadir CD4+ cell count) in people living with HIV (PLWH). We conducted an Italian multicenter cross-sectional study including 1148 PLWH who underwent carotid color Doppler ultrasound. We classified cIMT as ≤0.9, 1.0–1.4, or >1.4 mm and analyzed these categories using multinomial logistic regression, reporting adjusted odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We adjusted models for age, sex, BMI, HIV acquisition risk factor, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia/statin use, triglycerides, integrase inhibitor use, and ART duration. cIMT was ≤0.9 mm in 615 (53.6%) participants, 1.0–1.4 mm in 379 (33.0%), and >1.4 mm in 154 (13.4%). Using nadir CD4+ ≥ 200 cells/µL and CD4/CD8 ≥ 1.0 as reference, PLWH with nadir CD4+ < 200 and CD4/CD8 ≥ 1.0 had higher odds of cIMT 1.0–1.4 mm (aOR 1.66, 95% CI 1.02–2.69) and >1.4 mm (aOR 3.45, 95% CI 1.68–7.07). In conclusion, CD4+ nadir and this combined pattern were associated with greater cIMT severity, supporting a role for immune dysregulation in subclinical atherosclerosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Virology and Viral Diseases)
12 pages, 447 KB  
Article
“Strike Early and Strike Strong”: Low LDL-Cholesterol and Low Albumin Predict Statin Hyporesponsiveness in Acute Coronary Syndrome
by Şükriye Uslu and Gülsüm Meral Yılmaz Öztekin
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2312; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062312 - 18 Mar 2026
Viewed by 297
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Many patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) fail to achieve adequate low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction, despite receiving high-intensity statin therapy. Identifying patients requiring early combination therapy remains a challenging task. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of statin hyporesponsiveness in patients [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Many patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) fail to achieve adequate low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) reduction, despite receiving high-intensity statin therapy. Identifying patients requiring early combination therapy remains a challenging task. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of statin hyporesponsiveness in patients with ACS and investigate the predictive role of baseline LDL-C and albumin levels. Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 366 patients with ACS treated with high-intensity statins (atorvastatin 40–80 mg). Hyporesponsiveness was defined as LDL-C reduction of <50% at 21–28 d. The baseline parameters were analyzed using logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: Hyporesponsiveness was observed in 63.1% of patients. Hyporesponders had significantly lower baseline albumin (41.7 vs. 43.3 g/L, p = 0.0002) and LDL-C (126.6 vs. 147.3 mg/dL, p < 0.0001) levels. Categorical analysis revealed that the combination of baseline LDL-C < 100 mg/dL and albumin < 40 g/L predicted hyporesponsiveness in 95.7% of cases. ROC curve analysis identified optimal predictive cut-offs of 128.50 mg/dL for LDL-C (area under the curve (AUC): 0.652) and 41.15 g/L for albumin (AUC: 0.618). The combined LDL-C + albumin model demonstrated superior predictive performance with an AUC of 0.670 (95% CI: 0.615–0.725). Conclusions: Low baseline LDL-C and low albumin are strong predictors of statin hyporesponsiveness in patients with ACS. These routinely obtained biomarkers can identify very high-risk patients who may benefit from proactive combination lipid-lowering therapy from hospital discharge, supporting the “strike early and strike strong” strategy and challenging the traditional stepwise approach. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Cardiology)
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