Harvard University researchers have developed a revolutionary blood test that could accurately predict the chances of heart or kidney disease in individuals with Type 2 diabetes. The study involving over 2,500 patients revealed that those with elevated levels of four specific biomarkers in their blood were more likely to develop these conditions. The presence of these biomarkers at the beginning of the study was indicative of the severity of future heart and kidney problems for the participants.
Canagliflozin decreases level of biomarkers associated with cardiac health
A new diagnostic advancement and treatment involving the diabetes drug canagliflozin have led to decreased levels of four biomarkers associated with heart health: N-terminal pro–B-type natriuretic peptide, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T, insulin-like growth factor binding protein 7, and growth differentiation factor-15, . This reduction significantly lowered the risk of heart failure-related hospitalization. Patients on a 100mg canagliflozin dose experienced a minimal 3 to 10-percent biomarker increase over a year, compared to the 6 to 29-percent increase in those on a placebo.
The study’s lead author, Professor James Januzzi from Harvard Medical School, states that elevated biomarker levels indicate heart and kidney issues and can predict future disease progression. The use of canagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitor, effectively reduced these biomarker levels and lowered the risk of heart-related hospitalization in high-risk individuals.
Individuals with elevated biomarker levels at high risk
In the study, researchers analyzed biomarker data 2,627 people to assess the effectiveness of canagliflozin. They observed four key biomarkers at one-year and three-year intervals, assessing their predictive value for kidney problems and the likelihood of death from kidney or cardiovascular issues. Participants were categorized as low, medium, or high-risk. The study highlighted that those with elevated biomarker levels, indicating higher risk, experienced significant growth in kidney failure and cardiovascular problems over three years.
Januzzi concluded that research is necessary to comprehensively comprehend the development and advancement of Type 2 diabetes alongside kidney disease. This will aid in the implementation of crucial treatments at an earlier stage, prior to the manifestation of heart and kidney disease symptoms.
