Research & Innovation
Publications
Genetic relationship between rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular diseases
PMU Authors
Mathias Ausserwinkler, Sophie Gensluckner, Maria Flamm, Elmar Aigner, Bernhard Wernly
All Authors
Mathias Ausserwinkler, Sophie Gensluckner, Andreas Voelkerer, Jens Thiel, Hans-Joerg Neumann, Maria Flamm, Christian Datz, Elmar Aigner, Bernhard Wernly
Journal association
WIENER KLINISCHE WOCHENSCHRIFT
Abstract
ObjectiveRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is recognized as a chronic autoimmune disorder with systemic inflammation and joint damage. Its potential role as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is increasingly noted. This review delves into the causal relationship between RA and CVD, with Mendelian randomization (MR) offering a genetic perspective.MethodsAn extensive search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane and Web of Science to identify MR studies addressing the RA-CVD link. Out of 530 studies, 9 met the inclusion criteria, which were rigorously assessed using a critical appraisal checklist. These were further stratified by a sensitivity analysis into categories reflecting the strength of their evidence, from not evaluable to robust.ResultsFrom the nine included studies, eight supported a causal association between RA and an increased risk of CVD, specifically coronary artery disease (CAD) and one did not support a link between RA and heart failure. The results suggest that genetic factors associated with RA may contribute to an elevated risk for CVD. Chronic inflammation, prevalent in RA, emerges as a key mediator in this connection.ConclusionThe systematic review corroborates a genetic causal link between RA and CVD, as evidenced by eight of the nine MR studies reviewed. This suggests a need for integrated cardiovascular risk management in the treatment of RA patients. The findings advocate considering anti-inflammatory treatment that can reduce cardiovascular risk. The overarching evidence signifies a potential direction for new therapeutic strategies aimed at enhancing cardiovascular health in RA patients.
Keywords
Cardiovascular diseases, Chronic inflammation, Genetic causality, Inflammatory joint disease, Mendelian randomization, Rheumatoid arthritis