Sex differences in atherosclerosis and exercise effects

Sex differences in atherosclerosis and exercise effects PDF Author: Liam Ward
Publisher: Linköping University Electronic Press
ISBN: 9176850978
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 81

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Book Description
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, with atherosclerosis being the main cause of cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the blood vessel wall, which over time will cause thickening and hardening of the vessel wall. Atherosclerosis can result in catastrophic vascular events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke. There are distinct sex differences in CVD mortality at different ages, before menopause women have a lower mortality of CVD in comparison to men, which equalises after menopause. In addition to sex differences in the incidence of CVD, there are also distinct sex differences in the phenotype of atherosclerotic plaques, with men generally developing more severe and vulnerable plaques that are at risk of rupture. This thesis aimed to investigate the sex differences in atherosclerosis, in particular how the proteome and pathophysiology differs. In addition, we sought to investigate the potential benefit of an exercise programme, in reducing CVD risks, using a randomised controlled trial including postmenopausal women. Sex differences in atherosclerosis were first investigated via proteomic analysis of human carotid endarterectomy samples. Initially, five intraplaque biopsies were taken from distinct atheroma regions, including; internal control, fatty streak, plaque shoulder, plaque centre, and fibrous cap. Protein extracts from these biopsies were subjected to analysis by mass spectrometry. The novel sampling method was successful in reducing the effect of plaque heterogeneity, a limitation in previous proteomic studies of atherosclerosis, and a number of previously unreported proteins were identified in human carotid atheroma. In addition to this, with the inclusion of multivariate statistical modelling, it was found that 43 proteins significantly discriminated the carotid atheroma between men and women. These proteins were grouped by function, and it was found that atheroma from men was associated with the increased abundance of inflammatory response proteins, including phospholipase-A2 membrane associated and lysozyme C, and atheroma from women was associated with increased abundance of blood coagulation, complement activation, and transport proteins, notably including; antithrombin-III, coagulation factor XII, and afamin. In addition, differences were also ii observed in the abundance of iron metabolism related proteins. These sex differences were further expanded upon from a pathophysiological perspective. Immunohistochemistry stainings of ferritin and transferrin receptor 1 were found significantly increased in the atheroma from men. Moreover, the levels of plasma haemoglobin were also significantly increased in men and were associated with the development of more vulnerable and severe plaque types. The more vulnerable and severe plaque types were also associated with significantly greater macrophage infiltration. In summary, these results are indicative of men developing atheroma with greater inflammation that are more vulnerable, due to increased iron and inflammatory proteins and macrophage infiltration, whereas atheroma from women develop with less inflammation and a more stable phenotype. The randomised controlled clinical trial aimed at investigating the effects of resistance training (RT), over a 15-week period, in postmenopausal women. Plasma samples were obtained at week-0 and week-15 of the study period, and analyses were performed primarily using a series of immunoassays. Results showed that women participating in RT, with good compliance, were associated with significant decreases in plasma levels of ferritin, lipids, and inflammatory adipokines. These results suggest that the use of regular RT may be a beneficial intervention in reducing the levels of body iron, lipids, and inflammation, all of which are risk factors for the development of CVD. However, validation studies are required in a larger cohort of postmenopausal women, in addition to the inclusion or complementary studies in middle-aged men. In summary, the works included in this thesis further expand on the current knowledge of sex differences in atherosclerosis, and also provides information on the potential of an exercise intervention to beneficially reduces the effects of known risk factors of CVD.

Sex differences in atherosclerosis and exercise effects

Sex differences in atherosclerosis and exercise effects PDF Author: Liam Ward
Publisher: Linköping University Electronic Press
ISBN: 9176850978
Category :
Languages : en
Pages : 81

Get Book Here

Book Description
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, with atherosclerosis being the main cause of cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the blood vessel wall, which over time will cause thickening and hardening of the vessel wall. Atherosclerosis can result in catastrophic vascular events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke. There are distinct sex differences in CVD mortality at different ages, before menopause women have a lower mortality of CVD in comparison to men, which equalises after menopause. In addition to sex differences in the incidence of CVD, there are also distinct sex differences in the phenotype of atherosclerotic plaques, with men generally developing more severe and vulnerable plaques that are at risk of rupture. This thesis aimed to investigate the sex differences in atherosclerosis, in particular how the proteome and pathophysiology differs. In addition, we sought to investigate the potential benefit of an exercise programme, in reducing CVD risks, using a randomised controlled trial including postmenopausal women. Sex differences in atherosclerosis were first investigated via proteomic analysis of human carotid endarterectomy samples. Initially, five intraplaque biopsies were taken from distinct atheroma regions, including; internal control, fatty streak, plaque shoulder, plaque centre, and fibrous cap. Protein extracts from these biopsies were subjected to analysis by mass spectrometry. The novel sampling method was successful in reducing the effect of plaque heterogeneity, a limitation in previous proteomic studies of atherosclerosis, and a number of previously unreported proteins were identified in human carotid atheroma. In addition to this, with the inclusion of multivariate statistical modelling, it was found that 43 proteins significantly discriminated the carotid atheroma between men and women. These proteins were grouped by function, and it was found that atheroma from men was associated with the increased abundance of inflammatory response proteins, including phospholipase-A2 membrane associated and lysozyme C, and atheroma from women was associated with increased abundance of blood coagulation, complement activation, and transport proteins, notably including; antithrombin-III, coagulation factor XII, and afamin. In addition, differences were also ii observed in the abundance of iron metabolism related proteins. These sex differences were further expanded upon from a pathophysiological perspective. Immunohistochemistry stainings of ferritin and transferrin receptor 1 were found significantly increased in the atheroma from men. Moreover, the levels of plasma haemoglobin were also significantly increased in men and were associated with the development of more vulnerable and severe plaque types. The more vulnerable and severe plaque types were also associated with significantly greater macrophage infiltration. In summary, these results are indicative of men developing atheroma with greater inflammation that are more vulnerable, due to increased iron and inflammatory proteins and macrophage infiltration, whereas atheroma from women develop with less inflammation and a more stable phenotype. The randomised controlled clinical trial aimed at investigating the effects of resistance training (RT), over a 15-week period, in postmenopausal women. Plasma samples were obtained at week-0 and week-15 of the study period, and analyses were performed primarily using a series of immunoassays. Results showed that women participating in RT, with good compliance, were associated with significant decreases in plasma levels of ferritin, lipids, and inflammatory adipokines. These results suggest that the use of regular RT may be a beneficial intervention in reducing the levels of body iron, lipids, and inflammation, all of which are risk factors for the development of CVD. However, validation studies are required in a larger cohort of postmenopausal women, in addition to the inclusion or complementary studies in middle-aged men. In summary, the works included in this thesis further expand on the current knowledge of sex differences in atherosclerosis, and also provides information on the potential of an exercise intervention to beneficially reduces the effects of known risk factors of CVD.

Exploring the Biological Contributions to Human Health

Exploring the Biological Contributions to Human Health PDF Author: Institute of Medicine
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309132975
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 287

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Book Description
It's obvious why only men develop prostate cancer and why only women get ovarian cancer. But it is not obvious why women are more likely to recover language ability after a stroke than men or why women are more apt to develop autoimmune diseases such as lupus. Sex differences in health throughout the lifespan have been documented. Exploring the Biological Contributions to Human Health begins to snap the pieces of the puzzle into place so that this knowledge can be used to improve health for both sexes. From behavior and cognition to metabolism and response to chemicals and infectious organisms, this book explores the health impact of sex (being male or female, according to reproductive organs and chromosomes) and gender (one's sense of self as male or female in society). Exploring the Biological Contributions to Human Health discusses basic biochemical differences in the cells of males and females and health variability between the sexes from conception throughout life. The book identifies key research needs and opportunities and addresses barriers to research. Exploring the Biological Contributions to Human Health will be important to health policy makers, basic, applied, and clinical researchers, educators, providers, and journalists-while being very accessible to interested lay readers.

Physical Activity and the Aging Brain

Physical Activity and the Aging Brain PDF Author: Ronald Ross Watson
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0128052627
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 240

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Book Description
Physical Activity and the Aging Brain: Effects of Exercise on Neurological Function is a complete guide to the manifold effects of exercise and physical activity on the aging brain. Cognitive decline and motor impairment, onset of diseases and disorders, and even changes in family structure and social settings that occur as we age can all impact activity levels, yet continued physical activity is crucial for successful neurological functioning. This book examines the role that exercise and physical activity play in halting or modulating the deleterious effects of these numerous aging concerns by first examining the current state of research into how exercise manifests physical changes in the brain. It then discuss how physical activity combines with other lifestyle factors to benefit the aging brain, including nutrition, computerized brain training, and social engagement. Most significantly, it also covers how physical activity can serve as therapy to help alleviate the symptoms of various neurological diseases impacting aging populations, with particular emphasis on Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline. The book provides broad coverage of the effects of exercise and physical activity on the aging brain, its therapeutic effects, and the many factors that influence the aging process. - Presents research scientists with a complete understanding of the role of exercise in healthy brain aging - Considers the roles of nutrition, the mind-body connection, and other lifestyle factors - Presents a major resource for exercise and physical activity in the neurological health of older adults - Provides a synopsis of key ideas associated with the many aspects of physical activity, along with lifestyle factors that can modify neurological diseases and age-related neurological decline

Sex-Specific Analysis of Cardiovascular Function

Sex-Specific Analysis of Cardiovascular Function PDF Author: Peter L. M. Kerkhof
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 331977932X
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 734

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Book Description
This book gathers together contributions from internationally renowned authors in the field of cardiovascular systems and provides crucial insight into the importance of sex- and gender-concepts during the analysis of patient data. This innovative title is the first to offer the elements necessary to consider sex-related properties in both clinical and basic studies regarding the heart and circulation on multiscale levels (i.e. molecular, cellular, electrophysiologically, neuroendocrine, immunoregulatory, organ, allometric, and modeling). Observed differences at (ultra)cellular and organ level are quantified, with focus on clinical relevance and implications for diagnosis and patient management. Since the cardiovascular system is of vital importance for all tissues, Sex-Specific Analysis of Cardiovascular Function is an essential source of information for clinicians, biologists, and biomedical investigators. The wide spectrum of differences described in this book will also act as an eye-opener and serve as a handbook for students, teachers, scientists and practitioners.

Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology

Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology PDF Author: Babbette LaMarca
Publisher: Academic Press
ISBN: 0128131977
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 392

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Book Description
Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Physiology and Pathophysiology is a comprehensive look into the often overlooked and underappreciated fundamental sex differences between men and women and how those differences affect the cardiovascular system. It covers cardiovascular function, anatomy, cell signaling and the development of pathology. With contributions from world-renowned research investigators, this up-to-date reference compiles critical knowledge on cardiovascular sex differences, providing researchers and clinicians with a better understanding of the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases in both men and women.

Gender Differences in the Pathogenesis and Management of Heart Disease

Gender Differences in the Pathogenesis and Management of Heart Disease PDF Author: Jawahar L. Mehta
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 9783319711348
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
This book reviews all aspects of the diagnosis and management of heart disease in women, covering areas such as gender differences in metabolic syndrome, hypertension and atherogenesis. Gender differences in cardiovascular diseases are widespread, but while gender medicine takes into account the effects of sex and gender on the health of women and men, traditionally, women have been underrepresented in cardiovascular clinical trials, in management of different cardiac diseases and drug use. Gender Differences in the Pathogenesis and Management of Heart Disease deals with the gender-specific differences in cardiac physiology and diseases and brings into perspective the critical significance of gender in management of cardiovascular disease presentations and management. As such it is of enormous use to all clinical staff who manage women with cardiovascular disease.

Brain and Heart Dynamics

Brain and Heart Dynamics PDF Author: Stefano Govoni
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 9783030280079
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 0

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Book Description
This ambitious and comprehensive handbook represents an essential contribution to our current understanding of interactions between heart and brain, a research topic generating growing interest. Despite the increasing awareness that neural mechanisms are the primary cause of cardiac disease and its progression, therapy continues to focus on end-organ protection and does not approach the neural core of the problem. Growing public health problems such as heart failure are still treated with autonomic drugs that are 30-40 years old and simply act on cardiac receptors. However, it has now been shown that the progression of ischemic heart disease to heart failure is mainly due to abnormal central responses to incipient cardiac disease, with neural activation the primary cause rather than the consequence of cardiac remodeling. Written by leading international experts in their respective research areas, the book presents a variety of perspectives on the core topic: from social and philosophical to gender-related aspects. It is designed for a broad readership and includes dedicated sections for cardiologists, psychiatrists, neurologists and psychotherapists looking for a more insightful and targeted approach to neuro-cardiovascular disease.

Sex and Gender Factors Affecting Metabolic Homeostasis, Diabetes and Obesity

Sex and Gender Factors Affecting Metabolic Homeostasis, Diabetes and Obesity PDF Author: Franck Mauvais-Jarvis
Publisher: Springer
ISBN: 3319701789
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 630

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Book Description
The book provides a reference for years to come, written by world-renowned expert investigators studying sex differences, the role of sex hormones, the systems biology of sex, and the genetic contribution of sex chromosomes to metabolic homeostasis and diseases. In this volume, leaders of the pharmaceutical industry present their views on sex-specific drug discovery. Many of the authors presented at the Keystone Symposium on “Sex and gender factors affecting metabolic homeostasis, diabetes and obesity” to be held in March 2017 in Lake Tahoe, CA. This book will generate new knowledge and ideas on the importance of gender biology and medicine from a molecular standpoint to the population level and to provide the methods to study them. It is intended to be a catalyst leading to gender-specific treatments of metabolic diseases. There are fundamental aspects of metabolic homeostasis that are regulated differently in males and females, and influence both the development of diabetes and obesity and the response to pharmacological intervention. Still, most preclinical researchers avoid studying female rodents due to the added complexity of research plans. The consequence is a generation of data that risks being relevant to only half of the population. This is a timely moment to publish a book on sex differences in diseases as NIH leadership has asked scientists to consider sex as a biological variable in preclinical research, to ensure that women get the same benefit of medical research as men.

Coronary Primary Prevention Trial

Coronary Primary Prevention Trial PDF Author:
Publisher:
ISBN:
Category : Coronary heart disease
Languages : en
Pages : 2

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Book Description


Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction

Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction PDF Author: Filippo Crea
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 8847053676
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 263

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Book Description
In the past two decades a number of studies have shown that abnormalities in the function and structure of coronary microcirculation can be detected in several cardiovascular diseases. On the basis of the clinical setting in which it occurs, coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) can be classified into four types: CMD in the absence of any other cardiac disease; CMD in myocardial diseases; CMD in obstructive epicardial coronary artery disease; and iatrogenic CMD. In some instances CMD represents an epiphenomenon, whereas in others it represents an important marker of risk or may contribute to the pathogenesis of myocardial ischemia, thus becoming a possible therapeutic target. This book provides an update on coronary physiology and a systematic assessment of microvascular abnormalities in cardiovascular diseases, in the hope that it will assist clinicians in prevention, detection and management of CMD in their everyday activity.