Biomarkers Could Play Key Role In Heart Failure Treatment

New research has found that biomarkers could play a vital role in helping to guide

doctors involved in prescribing treatments and medication for heart failure patients. Researchers at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Heart Centre found that measuring levels of the protein NT-proBNP in certain patients and keeping it below 1,000 pg/ml "may significantly reduce the incidence of cardiovascular complications".

A number of other studies have demonstrated how blood levels of NT-proBNP alter once treatment for heart failure begins, but related trials had so far failed to produce consistent results. Researchers at MGH decided to restrict their trials to patients suffering from dysfunction of the left ventricle of the heart.

Their aim was to reduce levels of the protein from over 2,000 pg/ml in patients who were yet to receive treatment, down to under 1,000 pg/ml. While all of the patients who took part in the trial received standard heart failure treatment at the hospital, half of the group also received biomarker-guided care and their medication was adjusted in order to reach the target level of NT-proBNP protein.

A total of 151 people took part in the study, which was conducted over a four-year period. Researchers found that in the group which received biomarker-guided care, rates of worsening heart failure symptoms and hospitalisations were cut in half.

Dr James Januzzi Jr, of the MGH Cardiology Division, said the results of the study represent "a turning point in our understanding of biomarker-guided care for heart failure". He went on to say that one of the main lessons learned from the research is the fact that it is essential to set and achieve low levels of NT-proBNP in patients, and when coupled with excellent patient care, this approach can lead to substantial improvements in outcomes.

Despite the impressive results achieved by the American study, Dr Januzzi said further work needs to be carried out to assess the impact of biomarker-guided care on heart failure patients, with the study replicated in a larger trial across a number of medical facilities. Further studies are now being planned and Januzzi said if successful, the result could be improved cardiac function for patients and as a result a better quality of life.

The US research is just another example of the way that biomarkers are being used in countries around the world to push forward research efforts in a bid to improve the lives of patients suffering from a wide range of medical conditions.

by: Alan Trotter

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