Mechanisms of Sex Disparities in Cardiovascular Function and Remodeling.

Mechanisms of Sex Disparities in Cardiovascular Function and Remodeling. Compr Physiol. 2018 Dec 13;9(1):375-411 Authors: Chaudhari S, Cushen SC, Osikoya O, Jaini PA, Posey R, Mathis KW, Goulopoulou S Abstract Epidemiological studies demonstrate disparities between men and women in cardiovascular disease prevalence, clinical symptoms, treatments, and outcomes. Enrollment of women in clinical trials is lower than men, and experimental studies investigating molecular mechanisms and efficacy of certain therapeutics in cardiovascular disease have been primarily conducted in male animals. These practices bias data interpretation and limit the implication of research findings in female clinical populations. This review will focus on the biological origins of sex differences in cardiovascular physiology, health, and disease, with an emphasis on the sex hormones, estrogen and testosterone. First, we will briefly discuss epidemiological evidence of sex disparities in cardiovascular disease prevalence and clinical manifestation. Second, we will describe studies suggesting sexual dimorphism in normal cardiovascular function from fetal life to older age. Third, we will summarize and critically discuss the current literature regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of estrogens and androgens on cardiac and vascular physiology and the contribution of these hormones to sex differences in cardiovascular disease. Fourth, we will pres...
Source: Comprehensive Physiology - Category: Physiology Tags: Compr Physiol Source Type: research