This discovery could serve as a basis for the early identification of individuals at risk, as well as the development of new treatment methods for heart failure in such patients.
"Kidney and heart problems often develop without obvious symptoms, which is why they are only detected when serious consequences have already occurred. Our results will help in the earlier detection of patients at risk of heart failure, allowing treatment to begin at earlier stages and improve outcomes," noted Uta Erdbrügger, a therapist and researcher from the nephrology department at the University of Virginia School of Medicine.
According to data from the National Institutes of Health, chronic kidney disease affects more than 35 million Americans, which is more than one in seven residents of the country. Kidney problems occur in about one-third of patients with diabetes and one in five people with hypertension.
There is an established link between cardiovascular diseases and chronic kidney disease, with the severity of cardiovascular diseases increasing as kidney function worsens. However, scientists have long struggled to determine the specific causes of this relationship, partly due to the presence of common risk factors such as obesity and hypertension.
A recent study identified a key element responsible for the toxic effects on the heart: particles known as "circulating extracellular vesicles," which are formed in diseased kidneys.
These extracellular vesicles, produced by almost all cells, play an important role in transporting proteins and other molecules between cells. However, in the case of chronic kidney disease, they carry microRNA that adversely affects the heart muscle.
In experiments on laboratory mice, blocking the circulation of these vesicles significantly improved heart function and reduced symptoms of heart failure. Additionally, scientists examined plasma samples from patients with chronic kidney disease and healthy individuals, confirming the presence of harmful vesicles in the former.
"Doctors have always been interested in how the kidneys and heart interact. We have demonstrated that extracellular vesicles originating from the kidneys can enter the heart and cause toxic effects," Erdbrügger reported. "This is just the beginning of our research into the interaction of these organs."
The results of this study open up possibilities for creating a blood test that will help identify patients with chronic kidney disease who are at risk for serious heart conditions. Furthermore, the impact on circulating extracellular vesicles can be considered for the treatment or prevention of their toxic effects on the heart.
"We aim to develop new biomarkers and treatment methods for patients with kidney diseases who are at risk for cardiovascular diseases," the researcher added. "This could significantly improve the personalized approach in medicine for patients with chronic kidney disease and heart failure, providing each individual with tailored treatment."
