Heart Disease and Inflammation

Arterial inflammation is linked to atherosclerosis. A proper management of inflammation represents a major therapeutic tool for cardiovascular disease patients.

In addition, testing for the base level of immunity in our body can be monitored through the measurement of the Inflammatory Biomarkers (the Cytokines). 

Current data points to the role of cytokines in atherosclerosis. Interleukin-1b (IL-1b), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and IL-17 are effective targets to reduce cardiovascular disease progression through different therapeutic strategies. On the other hand, IL-6 and MCP-1 are strongly associated with coronary heart diseases (CHD).

Cytokines are a group of proteins responsible for cell signalling and are involved in the immunology and pathophysiology of heart disease disorders. The two main pro-inflammatory cytokines involved are IL-1and TFNa, while IL-4 and IL-10 have shown potential immunomodualtors via the inhibition of Th1 cell activity by suppressing IFN-γ.

An initial diagnosis can be made based on the presence of these cytokines in the blood.

CMID offers an assessment of cytokines and leukotriene levels, in order to evaluate inflammatory pathways. Inflammation increases with age. The common tests in this area are for IL-1 (interleukin-1), IL- 6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), etc. The combination of cytokine test Panel for all the 12 measured proteins is essential to identify those who are high risk for developing heart diseases as a leading cause for heart failure.

The Canakinumab Anti-inflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study (CANTOS) trial was the first anti- inflammatory trial to treat atherosclerosis and the target chosen for evaluation was IL-1b. Specifically, the trial used a fully humanized monoclonal antibody, canakinumab, previously approved for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome. This drug to neutralize IL-1b was tested in high-risk cardiovascular disease patients who had a history of myocardial infarction and elevated acute-phase C-reactive protein (CRP). In addition, randomized therapeutic strategies of using canakinumab, patients were maintained on standard therapy, which included statin use. This IL-1b-targeted therapy effectively reduced circulating cytokine IL-6 and CRP independently of any changes in cholesterol as shown in scientific studies.

Ask your doctor about the Biomarker testing . The biomarker's testing as preventive medicine: a new approach to stay healthy. Biomarkers are useful for:

• Disease prevention and screening
• Monitoring disease progress and response to treatment
• Drug selection

Our laboratory services are for informational purposes only. It is not the intention of Canada Metabolic Inflammation Diagnostics Inc. to provide specific medical advice but rather to provide users with information to better understand their health. Specific medical advice including diagnosis and treatment will not be provided. Always seek the advice of a trained health professional for medical adivce, diagnosis or treatment.