Metabolomic characterization of hypertension and dyslipidemia

Background

Hypertension and dyslipidemia are two main risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Moreover, their coexistence predisposes individuals to a considerably increased risk of CVD. However, the regulatory mechanisms involved in hypertension and dyslipidemia as well as their interactions are incompletely understood.

Objectives

The aims of our study were to identify metabolic biomarkers and pathways for hypertension and dyslipidemia, and compare the metabolic patterns between hypertension and dyslipidemia.

Methods

In this study, we performed metabolomic investigations into hypertension and dyslipidemia based on a “healthy” UK population. Metabolomic data from the Husermet project were acquired by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and ultra-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Both univariate and multivariate statistical methods were used to facilitate biomarker selection and pathway analysis.

Results

Serum metabolic signatures between individuals with and without hypertension or dyslipidemia exhibited considerable differences. Using rigorous selection criteria, 26 and 46 metabolites were identified as potential biomarkers of hypertension and dyslipidemia respectively. These metabolites, mainly involved in fatty acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, are implicated in insulin resistance, vascular remodeling, macrophage activation and oxidised LDL formation. Remarkably, hypertension and dyslipidemia exhibit both common and distinct metabolic patterns, revealing their independent and synergetic biological implications.

Conclusion

This study identified valuable biomarkers and pathways for hypertension and dyslipidemia, and revealed common and different metabolic patterns between hypertension and dyslipidemia. The information provided in this study could shed new light on the pathologic mechanisms and offer potential intervention targets for hypertension and dyslipidemia as well as their related diseases.