Mechanisms of coronary dysfunction in obesity and insulin resistance

Jarrod D. Knudson, U. Deniz Dincer, Ian N. Bratz, Michael Sturek, Gregory M. Dick, Johnathan D. Tune

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

60 Scopus citations

Abstract

The incidence of obesity and the metabolic syndrome has reached epidemic proportions and alterations in coronary microvascular function could contribute to the increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality observed in these patients. This review highlights key mechanisms of impaired control of coronary blood flow in the metabolic syndrome. Specifically, coronary endothelial dysfunction, altered neurohumoral control, and the potential roles of smooth muscle ion channels are addressed. Recent studies indicate that alterations in endothelial-dependent vasodilation or endothelial-dependent vasoconstriction contribute little to obesity-induced impairments in coronary vascular control. In contrast, augmented vasoconstriction in response to neurohumoral mediators appears to play a significant role in coronary vascular dysfunction. The authors conclude that coronary dysfunction in the metabolic syndrome is characterized by an imbalance between coronary blood flow and myocardial metabolism that may be mediated by sensitization of vasoconstrictor pathways. Further, they suggest that alterations in smooth muscle ion channels, Ca2+ handling, and cell signaling may be important mechanisms leading to coronary microvascular dysfunction. Importantly, however, more research is needed to clearly delineate specific mechanisms and identify potential therapeutic targets.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)317-338
Number of pages22
JournalMicrocirculation
Volume14
Issue number4-5
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2007

Keywords

  • Coronary circulation
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Metabolic vasodilation
  • Vascular smooth muscle

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