Commentary - Journal of Clinical Endocrinology Research (2025) Volume 8, Issue 1

Exploring the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases: Understanding mechanisms and therapeutic avenues.

Frederick A Villamena ^*

Department of Pharmacology, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, USA

Corresponding Author:

Frederick A Villamena
Department of Pharmacology
Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, USA.
E-mail: villamena.01@osu.edu

Received: 05-Apr-2024, Manuscript No. AAJCER-24-131471; Editor assigned: 07-Apr-2024, AAJCER-24-131471 (PQ); Reviewed: 20-Apr-2024, QC No. AAJCER-24-131471; Revised: 07-Apr-2025, Manuscript No. AAJCER-24-131471 (R); Published: 14-Apr-2025, DOI: 10.35841/AAJCER.8.1.178

Keywords

Cardiovascular endocrinology, Hormones, Cardiovascular function, Endocrine disorders, Therapeutic strategies.

Introduction

Cardiovascular diseases encompass a broad spectrum of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Despite advances in medical therapy and interventions, CVDs continue to pose a substantial public health challenge, underscoring the importance of elucidating their pathophysiology.

Pathophysiology of coronary artery disease

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is characterized by the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, leading to myocardial ischemia and infarction. The pathogenesis of CAD involves endothelial dysfunction, lipid accumulation, inflammation, and plaque rupture. Dyslipidemia, hypertension, smoking, and diabetes mellitus are major risk factors contributing to the development of CAD. Therapeutic interventions targeting cholesterol lowering, blood pressure control, and antiplatelet therapy have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with CAD.

Pathophysiology of heart failure

Heart Failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome resulting from impaired cardiac function, characterized by inadequate tissue perfusion and fluid retention. The pathophysiology of HF involves abnormalities in myocardial structure and function, neurohormonal activation, and systemic inflammation. Neurohormonal pathways, including the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) and sympathetic nervous system, play a central role in the progression of HF. Targeted therapies such as Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, beta-blockers, and mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists have demonstrated efficacy in improving outcomes in patients with HF.

Pathophysiology of stroke

Stroke is a major cause of disability and mortality worldwide, characterized by the sudden onset of focal neurological deficits due to cerebral ischemia or hemorrhage. Ischemic stroke accounts for the majority of cases and is typically caused by thrombotic or embolic occlusion of cerebral arteries. Hemorrhagic stroke results from the rupture of intracranial blood vessels, leading to extravasation of blood into the brain parenchyma. Risk factors for stroke include hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and atrial fibrillation. Antithrombotic therapy, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modifications are key components of stroke prevention and management.

Conclusion

Understanding the pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases is essential for guiding clinical management and developing novel therapeutic strategies. Advances in molecular biology, imaging modalities, and precision medicine hold promise for personalized approaches to CVD prevention and treatment. By targeting specific pathophysiological mechanisms, clinicians and researchers can improve outcomes and reduce the global burden of cardiovascular diseases.