New biomarker may detect arterial calcification

Researchers examined whether serum uric acid could serve as a biomarker for coronary and carotid artery calcification. While uric acid has previously been identified as a cardiovascular risk factor, little research has explored its potential to reveal independent vascular risk.

In a study published in Clinical Research in Cardiology, the researchers used cardiac computed tomography and polygenic risk scores to assess coronary artery calcification and ultrasonography to evaluate carotid artery plaque among more than 10,500 patients aged 40 to 77 years.

Following adjustment for cardiovascular risk scores, polygenic cardiovascular risk, metabolic syndrome, lipoprotein(a) and systemic inflammation, the researchers found that serum uric acid levels and hyperuricemia were positively associated with coronary artery calcification but not carotid artery plaque.

The findings indicated that the biomarker may help identify subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in clinical settings.

Read more: Clinical Research in Cardiology

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