Approved Research

Association of Metabolomic profiles with MRI traits of cardiac structure and function and with the risk of incident heart failure in UK Biobank Cohort

Lay summary

Aims: Our study aims to use data from the UK Biobank cohort to evaluate the role of metabolism disruption in heart failure (HF). To this end, we will look at the relationship between metabolite levels and 1) abnormalities of heart function and structure, 2) risk of developing HF. Additionally, we will explore potential differences in the metabolism between individuals with HF who simultaneously have other underlying diseases, such as coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, and arrhythmia. These disorders increase the likelihood of developing HF.

Scientific rationale: HF is a syndrome in which the heart is not able to provide enough output to meet the body's demand for oxygen. It is a chronic complication of various cardiovascular diseases. Improved cardiovascular care contributed to reduced mortality of cardiac patients and increased the number of individuals at risk of HF onset. Deteriorating heart function reduces exercise capability and tolerability, leading to a substantial decrease in quality of life. Only about half of the patients diagnosed with HF survive five years after the diagnosis has been made, indicating generally poor survival for patients with HF. Previous research indicated that measurement of particular biochemical markers could predict heart dysfunction many years before onset.

However, currently clinically used biomarkers of HF (such as BNP) rather reflect physiological adaption of the heart during the disease process rather than early changes leading to the development of disease. Therefore, there is a substantial need to identify early biochemical indicators of the different disease processes leading to HF onset. The metabolome represents the totality of compounds involved in human metabolism. By comparing the baseline metabolome of patients who developed HF in longitudinal observation compared to those who remained healthy during the observation period, we can suggest potential metabolic indicators of disease. Findings from previous research on metabolome in HF are not conclusive and limited by a small samples size or by study design.

Duration: This project will last 36 months upon receipt of the data.

Public health impact: Despite novel treatment opportunities, HF still remains a crucial public health issue with approximately 64 million affected individuals worldwide. Our study will provide insight into metabolic pathways reflecting processes involved in the onset of HF. Our planned analyze might contribute to identifying potential markers of individuals at high risk of HF onset, enabling effective prevention. This can be a step toward personalized care of HF, addressing individual characteristics and needs of patients.