Donate Help Contact The AHA Sign In Home
American Heart Association
Circulation
Search: search_blue_button Advanced Search
Circulation. 2001;104:2266-2268
doi: 10.1161/hc4401.099447
This Article
Right arrow Abstract Freely available
Right arrow Full Text (PDF)
Right arrow Alert me when this article is cited
Right arrow Alert me if a correction is posted
Right arrow Citation Map
Services
Right arrow Email this article to a friend
Right arrow Similar articles in this journal
Right arrow Similar articles in PubMed
Right arrow Alert me to new issues of the journal
Right arrow Download to citation manager
Right arrowRequest Permissions
Citing Articles
Right arrow Citing Articles via HighWire
Right arrow Citing Articles via Google Scholar
Google Scholar
Right arrow Articles by Schönbeck, U.
Right arrow Articles by Ridker, P. M.
Right arrow Search for Related Content
PubMed
Right arrow PubMed Citation
Right arrow Articles by Schönbeck, U.
Right arrow Articles by Ridker, P. M.
Right arrowPubmed/NCBI databases
*Compound via MeSH
*Substance via MeSH
Related Collections
Right arrow Risk Factors
Right arrow Growth factors/cytokines
Right arrow Epidemiology

(Circulation. 2001;104:2266.)
© 2001 American Heart Association, Inc.


Brief Rapid Communications

Soluble CD40L and Cardiovascular Risk in Women

Uwe Schönbeck, PhD*; Nerea Varo, PhD*; Peter Libby, MD; Julie Buring, ScD; Paul M. Ridker, MD

From the Leducq Center for Cardiovascular Research, Cardiovascular Medicine and the Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass.

Correspondence to Uwe Schönbeck, Leducq Center for Cardiovascular Research, Cardiovascular Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Ave, LMRC 309, Boston, MA 02115. E-mail uschoenbeck{at}rics.bwh.harvard.edu


*    Abstract
up arrowTop
*Abstract
down arrowIntroduction
down arrowMethods
down arrowResults
down arrowDiscussion
down arrowReferences
 
Background— The immune-signaling dyad CD40/CD40L promotes atherogenesis, and patients with unstable angina have elevated plasma levels of soluble CD40L (sCD40L) and membrane-bound CD40L. It is unknown, however, whether elevations of circulating sCD40L precede the onset of acute cardiovascular symptoms.

Methods and Results— In a prospective, nested case-control evaluation of healthy middle-aged women, mean concentrations of sCD40L at baseline were significantly higher among 130 participants who subsequently developed myocardial infarction, stroke, or cardiovascular death (cases), compared with 130 age- and smoking-matched women who remained free of cardiovascular disease (controls) during a 4-year follow-up (2.86 ng/mL for cases versus 2.09 ng/mL for controls; P=0.02). Women with concentrations above the 95th percentile of the control distribution (>3.71 ng/mL) had a significantly increased relative risk (RR) of developing future cardiovascular events (RR, 3.3; 95% CI, 1.2 to 8.6; P=0.01) that remained after adjustment for usual cardiovascular risk factors (multivariate RR, 2.8; 95% CI, 0.9 to 8.0; P=0.05).

Conclusions— High plasma concentrations of sCD40L may be associated with increased vascular risk in apparently healthy women.


Key Words: atherosclerosis • immune system • risk factors


*    Introduction
up arrowTop
up arrowAbstract
*Introduction
down arrowMethods
down arrowResults
down arrowDiscussion
down arrowReferences
 
Previously, we and others have demonstrated that the multipotent immunomodulator CD40L and its receptor CD40, expressed on vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, mononuclear phagocytes, and platelets, promote a wide array of pro-atherogenic functions in vitro.15 Ligation of CD40 on endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, or mononuclear phagocytes triggers the expression of various proinflammatory mediators, such as the cytokines interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-12, tumor necrosis factor-{alpha}, and interferon-{gamma}; the chemokines IL-8, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and RANTES (regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed and secreted); intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1; the matrix metalloproteinases-1, -2, -3, -7, -8, -9, -10, -11, -12, and -13 as well as the procoagulant tissue factor.5 These observations implicate CD40L in the various stages of atherogenesis, including the initiation and progression of atherosclerotic lesions as well as acute complications. In accord with the predicted role the CD40/CD40L dyad in atherogenesis, disruption of CD40 signaling significantly diminished lesion formation and progression in hypercholesterolemic mice.6 Interruption of CD40/CD40L interactions also prevented the progression of established atheroma and promoted processes associated with plaque stabilization in humans.7,8 These in vitro and in vivo studies identified CD40L as a potential therapeutic target for treatment of atherosclerosis, although the underlying mechanisms by which interruption of CD40 signaling affects atherogenesis require further investigation.

In addition to the 39-kDa, cell-associated form, CD40L also occurs in a soluble, biologically fully active form (sCD40L).9 Interestingly, patients with unstable angina have higher concentrations of functional sCD40L than do patients with stable angina or healthy volunteers, possibly as a result of release from activated platelets or T lymphocytes (U. Schönbeck, PhD, et al, unpublished observations, 2001).10 It remains unknown, however, whether plasma concentrations of sCD40L also have diagnostic or prognostic value among apparently healthy individuals before the onset of acute cardiovascular events.


*    Methods
up arrowTop
up arrowAbstract
up arrowIntroduction
*Methods
down arrowResults
down arrowDiscussion
down arrowReferences
 
We performed a prospective, nested case-control analysis among participants in the Women’s Health Study (WHS), an ongoing primary prevention trial evaluating the efficiency of vitamin E and low-dose aspirin in 28 263 middle-aged American women with no history of cardiovascular disease or cancer.11 Blood samples were collected in EDTA and stored in liquid nitrogen until analysis. For this study, 130 women who subsequently developed either nonfatal myocardial infarction or stroke or died from acute cardiovascular events during the initial 4-year follow-up period were selected as case subjects. A committee of physicians using standardized procedures classified end points. For each confirmed case, a control participant of the same age (±2 years) and similar smoking status (former, current, or never) who remained free of reported cardiovascular disease was selected.

Baseline plasma sCD40L concentrations were measured by ELISA (Bender MedSystems). Briefly, diluted (1:5) plasma samples were applied in triplicate to 96-well plates precoated with mouse anti-human CD40L antibody and mixed (1:2) with a horseradish-peroxidase–labeled secondary mouse anti-human CD40L antibody (2 hours). Subsequently, plates were washed and antibody binding determined by colorimetry using 3,3'-5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine substrate. Absorbance was read at 650 nm and plasma concentrations of sCD40L were determined by comparison with serial dilutions of recombinant human CD40L. Analysis was performed in a blinded fashion. Intra-assay variation among the triplicates for all samples was less than 15%. Lipid levels were measured in a laboratory that participates in the Centers for Disease Control standardization.

Means and proportions for baseline clinical characteristics of the study participants were computed and compared using either Student’s t test or the {chi}2 statistic. Relative risk (RR) of developing future cardiovascular events associated with increasing levels of sCD40L at baseline were then computed in a series of logistic regression analyses that divided the study sample according to the 50th, 75th, 90th, 95th, and 99th percentile cutpoints of the control distribution for sCD40L. All P values are 2-tailed and all confidence intervals are computed at the 95% level.


*    Results
up arrowTop
up arrowAbstract
up arrowIntroduction
up arrowMethods
*Results
down arrowDiscussion
down arrowReferences
 
Table 1 shows the baseline clinical characteristics of the study participants. As expected, women who developed cardiovascular disease during follow-up were more likely at study entry to be obese, hypertensive, or diabetic, or to have a family history of premature atherosclerosis, compared with women who remained free of disease. LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels were higher at baseline among cases, whereas HDL cholesterol levels were lower (all P<=0.01). Use of hormone replacement therapy did not differ significantly between the 2 groups.


View this table:
[in this window]
[in a new window]
 
Table 1. Baseline Characteristics of Study Participants

Overall, plasma levels of sCD40L at baseline among cases exceeded that in controls (2.86±0.35 versus 2.09±0.19 ng/mL; P<=0.02) (Table 1). This difference was almost entirely the result of an excess of particularly high values among the case subjects. The great majority of cases and control subjects had similar levels of sCD40L at study entry (Figure). However, 11 cases had baseline levels of sCD40L in excess of the 99th percentile cutpoint for the control distribution, compared with only 1 control subject (P<=0.01).



View larger version (16K):
[in this window]
[in a new window]
 
Baseline serum concentrations of sCD40L among middle-aged healthy women who either stayed free of cardiovascular events (controls, n=130) or developed cardiovascular events (cases, n=130). Samples were analyzed in triplicates, and mean values are shown. Dotted line depicts the 99th percentile cutpoint for the control distribution.

RRs for developing future cardiovascular events, according to the prespecified cutpoints defined by the distribution of the study controls, rose with increasing concentrations of sCD40L and became statistically significant with levels of sCD40L in excess of the 95th and 99th percentile cutpoints (RR: 3.29 [P<=0.02] and 11.83 [P<=0.01], respectively) (Table 2).


View this table:
[in this window]
[in a new window]
 
Table 2. High Plasma Concentrations of sCD40L Are Associated With Increased Cardiovascular Risk

An additional post-hoc analysis was performed, comparing clinical characteristics among the 12 participants with levels of sCD40L in excess of the 99th percentile cutpoint with the 248 participants with lower levels. Age, smoking, body mass index, LDL and HDL cholesterol levels, and hormone replacement therapy were similar between these 2 study groups (Table 3). Study participants with particularly elevated levels of sCD40L had somewhat higher rates of hypertension and a family history of premature coronary artery disease, but neither of these differences achieved statistical significance. None of the 12 women with markedly elevated baseline levels of sCD40L had diabetes. Moreover, there were no significant differences in the time from randomization to the cardiovascular event between the 11 cases with extreme sCD40L levels and the remaining cases with lower sCD40L (15.9 versus 19.5 months; P=0.3). Assignment to aspirin versus placebo presumably did not affect our observation because within the group of 12 subjects showing the highest sCD40L concentrations, 6 were randomly assigned to aspirin and 6 to placebo. In addition, the blood samples assayed for sCD40L were drawn before randomization.


View this table:
[in this window]
[in a new window]
 
Table 3. Clinical Characteristics of Study Participants With sCD40L Concentrations Above 99th Percentile of Control Distribution (>5.54 ng/mL sCD40L)

Previous reports on this cohort have documented an association of plasma levels of C-reactive protein, IL-6, serum amyloid A, and ICAM-1 with increased cardiovascular risk.12 However, we observed no significant correlation between these parameters and sCD40L.


*    Discussion
up arrowTop
up arrowAbstract
up arrowIntroduction
up arrowMethods
up arrowResults
*Discussion
down arrowReferences
 
In this prospective, nested case-control study of apparently healthy middle-aged women, markedly elevated plasma concentrations of sCD40L at baseline (>5.54 ng/mL) foretold a significantly increased risk of future cardiovascular events. Previous studies demonstrated that patients with unstable angina had significantly higher serum levels of sCD40L when compared with patients with stable angina and controls.10 In this circumstance, activated platelets or T lymphocytes may release sCD40L secondarily. The present study, however, demonstrates elevation of sCD40L concentrations in some women before events that may result from acute thrombosis.

Little is known regarding the mechanisms yielding release of soluble forms of CD40L. Potential sources for sCD40L in plasma include platelets and T lymphocytes, as well as mononuclear phagocytes and endothelial cells.15 The tendency of family history of cardiovascular disease to correlate with enhanced sCD40L plasma levels suggests that genetic factors might contribute to our observation. Although we found no association between sCD40L and C-reactive protein, IL-6, or ICAM-1 levels, the absolute number of subjects with markedly elevated sCD40L was small, and CD40/CD40L-independent mechanisms may well pertain to women who develop cardiovascular complications despite low sCD40L levels. However, our finding suggests that high plasma concentrations of sCD40L reflect aspects of risk distinct from those gauged by other inflammatory markers. Administration of aspirin after the measurement of sCD40L does not appear to attenuate subsequent risk of a cardiovascular event, unlike C-reactive protein.13

In conclusion, these limited prospective data provide evidence that elevated plasma concentrations of sCD40L at baseline may identify certain apparently healthy women at high risk for cardiovascular events, an observation that we believe should stimulate further evaluation of sCD40L as a biomarker for cardiovascular disease.


*    Acknowledgments
 
This study was supported in part by grants from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (HL-34636, HL-56985, HL-58755, and HL-63293). Dr Ridker was further supported by an Established Investigator Award from the American Heart Association and by a Distinguished Clinical Scientist Award from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation. The authors also acknowledge Karen Williams for editorial assistance.


*    Footnotes
 
*The first 2 authors contributed equally to this work. Back

Received July 18, 2001; revision received September 13, 2001; accepted September 14, 2001.


*    References
up arrowTop
up arrowAbstract
up arrowIntroduction
up arrowMethods
up arrowResults
up arrowDiscussion
*References
 
1. Alderson MR, Armitage RJ, Tough TW, et al. CD40 expression by human monocytes: regulation by cytokines and activation of monocytes by the ligand for CD40. J Exp Med. 1993; 178: 669–674.[Abstract/Free Full Text]

2. Reul RM, Fang JC, Denton MD, et al. CD40 and CD40 ligand (CD154) are coexpressed on microvessels in vivo in human cardiac allograft rejection. Transplantation. 1997; 64: 1765–1774.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]

3. Mach F, Schönbeck U, Sukhova GK, et al. Functional CD40 ligand is expressed on human vascular endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages: implications for CD40-CD40 ligand signaling in atherosclerosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1997; 94: 1931–1936.[Abstract/Free Full Text]

4. Henn V, Slupsky JR, Grafe M, et al. CD40 ligand on activated platelets triggers an inflammatory reaction of endothelial cells. Nature. 1998; 391: 591–594.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]

5. Schönbeck U, Libby P. The CD40/CD154 receptor/ligand dyad. Cell Mol Life Sci. 2001; 58: 4–43.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]

6. Mach F, Schönbeck U, Sukhova GK, et al. Reduction of atherosclerosis in mice by inhibition of CD40 signalling. Nature. 1998; 394: 200–203.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]

7. Schönbeck U, Sukhova GK, Shimizu K, et al. Inhibition of CD40 signaling limits evolution of established atherosclerosis in mice. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2000; 97: 7458–7463.[Abstract/Free Full Text]

8. Lutgens E, Cleutjens KB, Heeneman S, et al. Both early and delayed anti-CD40L antibody treatment induces a stable plaque phenotype. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2000; 97: 7464–7469.[Abstract/Free Full Text]

9. Graf D, Muller S, Korthauer U, et al. A soluble form of TRAP (CD40 ligand) is rapidly released after T cell activation. Eur J Immunol. 1995; 25: 1749–1754.[Medline] [Order article via Infotrieve]

10. Aukrust P, Muller F, Ueland T, et al. Enhanced levels of soluble and membrane-bound CD40 ligand in patients with unstable angina: possible reflection of T lymphocyte and platelet involvement in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndromes. Circulation. 1999; 100: 614–620.[Abstract/Free Full Text]

11. Buring JE, Hennekens CH. The women’s health study: summary of the study design. J Myocard Ischemia. 1992; 4: 19–27.

12. Ridker PM, Hennekens CH, Buring JE, et al. C-reactive protein and other markers of inflammation in the prediction of cardiovascular disease in women. N Engl J Med. 2000; 342: 836–843.[Abstract/Free Full Text]

13. Ridker PM, Cushman M, Stampfer MJ, et al. Inflammation, aspirin, and the risk of cardiovascular disease in apparently healthy men. N Engl J Med. 1997; 336: 973–979.[Abstract/Free Full Text]




This article has been cited by other articles:


Home page
Eur Heart JHome page
U. Hanusch-Enserer, G. Zorn, J. Wojta, C. W. Kopp, R. Prager, W. Koenig, M. Schillinger, M. Roden, and K. Huber
Non-conventional markers of atherosclerosis before and after gastric banding surgery
Eur. Heart J., June 2, 2009; 30(12): 1516 - 1524.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Clin. Chem.Home page
M. Plaikner, A. Peer, G. Falkensammer, C. Schmidauer, C. Pechlaner, A. Griesmacher, O. Pachinger, and J. Mair
Lack of Association of Soluble CD40 Ligand with the Presence of Acute Myocardial Infarction or Ischemic Stroke in the Emergency Department
Clin. Chem., January 1, 2009; 55(1): 175 - 178.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
ChestHome page
A. Choudhury, I. Chung, N. Panja, J. Patel, and G. Y. H. Lip
Soluble CD40 Ligand, Platelet Surface CD40 Ligand, and Total Platelet CD40 Ligand in Atrial Fibrillation: Relationship to Soluble P-Selectin, Stroke Risk Factors, and Risk Factor Intervention
Chest, September 1, 2008; 134(3): 574 - 581.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab.Home page
C. Natal, P. Restituto, C. Inigo, I. Colina, J. Diez, and N. Varo
The Proinflammatory Mediator CD40 Ligand Is Increased in the Metabolic Syndrome and Modulated by Adiponectin
J. Clin. Endocrinol. Metab., June 1, 2008; 93(6): 2319 - 2327.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Pharmacol. Rev.Home page
V. M. Miller and S. P. Duckles
Vascular Actions of Estrogens: Functional Implications
Pharmacol. Rev., June 1, 2008; 60(2): 210 - 241.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
S. Brili, D. Tousoulis, C. Antoniades, C. Vasiliadou, M. Karali, N. Papageorgiou, N. Ioakeimidis, K. Marinou, E. Stefanadi, and C. Stefanadis
Effects of Ramipril on Endothelial Function and the Expression of Proinflammatory Cytokines and Adhesion Molecules in Young Normotensive Subjects With Successfully Repaired Coarctation of Aorta A Randomized Cross-Over Study.
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., February 19, 2008; 51(7): 742 - 749.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Clin. Chem.Home page
R. R. S. Packard and P. Libby
Inflammation in Atherosclerosis: From Vascular Biology to Biomarker Discovery and Risk Prediction
Clin. Chem., January 1, 2008; 54(1): 24 - 38.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
NEJMHome page
G. Davi and C. Patrono
Platelet Activation and Atherothrombosis
N. Engl. J. Med., December 13, 2007; 357(24): 2482 - 2494.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
ChestHome page
A. Choudhury, B. Freestone, J. Patel, and G. Y. H. Lip
Relationship of Soluble CD40 Ligand to Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Angiopoietins, and Tissue Factor in Atrial Fibrillation: A Link Among Platelet Activation, Angiogenesis, and Thrombosis?
Chest, December 1, 2007; 132(6): 1913 - 1919.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Vasc MedHome page
S. R. Steinhubl, J. J. Badimon, D. L. Bhatt, J.-M. Herbert, and T. F. Luscher
Clinical evidence for anti-inflammatory effects of antiplatelet therapy in patients with atherothrombotic disease
Vascular Medicine, May 1, 2007; 12(2): 113 - 122.
[Abstract] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
A. Zirlik, U. Bavendiek, P. Libby, L. MacFarlane, N. Gerdes, J. Jagielska, S. Ernst, M. Aikawa, H. Nakano, E. Tsitsikov, et al.
TRAF-1, -2, -3, -5, and -6 Are Induced in Atherosclerotic Plaques and Differentially Mediate Proinflammatory Functions of CD40L in Endothelial Cells
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., May 1, 2007; 27(5): 1101 - 1107.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
A. Zirlik, C. Maier, N. Gerdes, L. MacFarlane, J. Soosairajah, U. Bavendiek, I. Ahrens, S. Ernst, N. Bassler, A. Missiou, et al.
CD40 Ligand Mediates Inflammation Independently of CD40 by Interaction With Mac-1
Circulation, March 27, 2007; 115(12): 1571 - 1580.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
H. Kosuge, J.-i. Suzuki, G. Haraguchi, N. Koga, Y. Maejima, M. Inobe, M. Isobe, and T. Uede
Critical Role of Inducible Costimulator Signaling in the Development of Arteriosclerosis
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., December 1, 2006; 26(12): 2660 - 2665.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
C. Alessandri, P. Pignatelli, L. Loffredo, L. Lenti, M. Del Ben, R. Carnevale, A. Perrone, D. Ferro, F. Angelico, and F. Violi
Alpha-linolenic acid-rich wheat germ oil decreases oxidative stress and CD40 ligand in patients with mild hypercholesterolemia.
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., November 1, 2006; 26(11): 2577 - 2578.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
LupusHome page
M McMahon, J Grossman, W Chen, and B H Hahn
Inflammation and the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis in systemic lupus erythematosus
Lupus, November 1, 2006; 15(11_suppl): 59 - 69.
[Abstract] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
P. Libby and P. M. Ridker
Inflammation and Atherothrombosis: From Population Biology and Bench Research to Clinical Practice
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., October 27, 2006; 48(9_Suppl_A): A33 - A46.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Cardiovasc ResHome page
P. Geraldes, S. Gagnon, S. Hadjadj, Y. Merhi, M. G. Sirois, I. Cloutier, and J.-F. Tanguay
Estradiol blocks the induction of CD40 and CD40L expression on endothelial cells and prevents neutrophil adhesion: An ER{alpha}-mediated pathway
Cardiovasc Res, August 1, 2006; 71(3): 566 - 573.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
L. B. Goldstein, R. Adams, M. J. Alberts, L. J. Appel, L. M. Brass, C. D. Bushnell, A. Culebras, T. J. DeGraba, P. B. Gorelick, J. R. Guyton, et al.
Primary Prevention of Ischemic Stroke: A Guideline From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Stroke Council: Cosponsored by the Atherosclerotic Peripheral Vascular Disease Interdisciplinary Working Group; Cardiovascular Nursing Council; Clinical Cardiology Council; Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Metabolism Council; and the Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Interdisciplinary Working Group: The American Academy of Neurology affirms the value of this guideline.
Circulation, June 20, 2006; 113(24): e873 - e923.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
StrokeHome page
L. B. Goldstein, R. Adams, M. J. Alberts, L. J. Appel, L. M. Brass, C. D. Bushnell, A. Culebras, T. J. DeGraba, P. B. Gorelick, J. R. Guyton, et al.
Primary Prevention of Ischemic Stroke: A Guideline From the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Stroke Council: Cosponsored by the Atherosclerotic Peripheral Vascular Disease Interdisciplinary Working Group; Cardiovascular Nursing Council; Clinical Cardiology Council; Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Metabolism Council; and the Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Interdisciplinary Working Group: The American Academy of Neurology affirms the value of this guideline.
Stroke, June 1, 2006; 37(6): 1583 - 1633.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
R. S. Vasan
Biomarkers of Cardiovascular Disease: Molecular Basis and Practical Considerations
Circulation, May 16, 2006; 113(19): 2335 - 2362.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Physiol. Rev.Home page
A. Tedgui and Z. Mallat
Cytokines in Atherosclerosis: Pathogenic and Regulatory Pathways
Physiol Rev, April 1, 2006; 86(2): 515 - 581.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
ChestHome page
K. Kobayashi, Y. Nishimura, T. Shimada, S. Yoshimura, Y. Funada, M. Satouchi, and M. Yokoyama
Effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Soluble CD40 Ligand in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Chest, March 1, 2006; 129(3): 632 - 637.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J. Immunol.Home page
S. Danese, M. Sans, F. Scaldaferri, A. Sgambato, S. Rutella, A. Cittadini, J. M. Pique, J. Panes, J. A. Katz, A. Gasbarrini, et al.
TNF-{alpha} Blockade Down-Regulates the CD40/CD40L Pathway in the Mucosal Microcirculation: A Novel Anti-Inflammatory Mechanism of Infliximab in Crohn's Disease
J. Immunol., February 15, 2006; 176(4): 2617 - 2624.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
F. Santilli, G. Davi, A. Consoli, F. Cipollone, A. Mezzetti, A. Falco, T. Taraborelli, E. Devangelio, G. Ciabattoni, S. Basili, et al.
Thromboxane-Dependent CD40 Ligand Release in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., January 17, 2006; 47(2): 391 - 397.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Am. J. Clin. Nutr.Home page
M. W Clarke, N. C Ward, J. H. Wu, J. M Hodgson, I. B Puddey, and K. D Croft
Supplementation with mixed tocopherols increases serum and blood cell {gamma}-tocopherol but does not alter biomarkers of platelet activation in subjects with type 2 diabetes
Am. J. Clinical Nutrition, January 1, 2006; 83(1): 95 - 102.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
J. E. Freedman
Molecular Regulation of Platelet-Dependent Thrombosis
Circulation, October 25, 2005; 112(17): 2725 - 2734.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
B. Davis and M.-H. Zou
CD40 Ligand-Dependent Tyrosine Nitration of Prostacyclin Synthase In Vivo
Circulation, October 4, 2005; 112(14): 2184 - 2192.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
J. A. de Lemos, A. Zirlik, U. Schonbeck, N. Varo, S. A. Murphy, A. Khera, D. K. McGuire, G. Stanek, H. S. Lo, R. Nuzzo, et al.
Associations Between Soluble CD40 Ligand, Atherosclerosis Risk Factors, and Subclinical Atherosclerosis: Results from the Dallas Heart Study
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., October 1, 2005; 25(10): 2192 - 2196.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
V. Fuster, P. R. Moreno, Z. A. Fayad, R. Corti, and J. J. Badimon
Atherothrombosis and High-Risk Plaque: Part I: Evolving Concepts
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., September 20, 2005; 46(6): 937 - 954.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Eur Heart JHome page
A. Schomig, C. Schmitt, A. Dibra, J. Mehilli, C. Volmer, H. Schuhlen, J. Dirschinger, F. Dotzer, J. M. ten Berg, F.-J. Neumann, et al.
One year outcomes with abciximab vs. placebo during percutaneous coronary intervention after pre-treatment with clopidogrel
Eur. Heart J., July 2, 2005; 26(14): 1379 - 1384.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
ChestHome page
M.-C. Chen, H.-W. Chang, C.-J. Wu, C.-H. Yang, W. C. Hung, K.-H. Yeh, and M. Fu
Percutaneous Transluminal Mitral Valvuloplasty Reduces Circulating Soluble CD40 Ligand in Rheumatic Mitral Stenosis
Chest, July 1, 2005; 128(1): 36 - 41.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
O. A. Ajijola, P. J. Goldschmidt-Clermont, and L. L. Satterwhite
CD40 Ligand: Not Bad to the Bone (Marrow), After All
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., June 1, 2005; 25(6): 1088 - 1090.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Clin. Chem.Home page
A. M. Halldorsdottir, J. Stoker, R. Porche-Sorbet, and C. S. Eby
Soluble CD40 Ligand Measurement Inaccuracies Attributable to Specimen Type, Processing Time, and ELISA Method
Clin. Chem., June 1, 2005; 51(6): 1054 - 1057.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
U. Bavendiek, A. Zirlik, S. LaClair, L. MacFarlane, P. Libby, and U. Schonbeck
Atherogenesis in Mice Does Not Require CD40 Ligand From Bone Marrow-Derived Cells
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., June 1, 2005; 25(6): 1244 - 1249.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Diabetes and Vascular Disease ResearchHome page
N. Varo, P. Libby, R. Nuzzo, J. Italiano, A. Doria, and U. Schonbeck
Elevated release of sCD40L from platelets of diabetic patients by thrombin, glucose and advanced glycation end products
Diabetes and Vascular Disease Research, May 1, 2005; 2(2): 81 - 87.
[Abstract] [PDF]


Home page
Clin. Chem.Home page
F. S. Apple, A. H.B. Wu, J. Mair, J. Ravkilde, M. Panteghini, J. Tate, F. Pagani, R. H. Christenson, M. Mockel, O. Danne, et al.
Future Biomarkers for Detection of Ischemia and Risk Stratification in Acute Coronary Syndrome
Clin. Chem., May 1, 2005; 51(5): 810 - 824.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Proc Am Thorac SocHome page
P. K. MacCallum
Markers of Hemostasis and Systemic Inflammation in Heart Disease and Atherosclerosis in Smokers
Proceedings of the ATS, April 1, 2005; 2(1): 34 - 43.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
StrokeHome page
S. Novo, S. Basili, R. Tantillo, A. Falco, V. Davi, G. Novo, E. Corrado, and G. Davi
Soluble CD40L and Cardiovascular Risk in Asymptomatic Low-Grade Carotid Stenosis
Stroke, March 1, 2005; 36(3): 673 - 675.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J. Physiol.Home page
L. Anderson
Candidate-based proteomics in the search for biomarkers of cardiovascular disease
J. Physiol., February 15, 2005; 563(1): 23 - 60.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Vasc MedHome page
A. Tedgui
The role of inflammation in atherothrombosis: implications for clinical practice
Vascular Medicine, February 1, 2005; 10(1): 45 - 53.
[Abstract] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
V. Sanguigni, P. Pignatelli, L. Lenti, D. Ferro, A. Bellia, R. Carnevale, M. Tesauro, R. Sorge, R. Lauro, and F. Violi
Short-Term Treatment With Atorvastatin Reduces Platelet CD40 Ligand and Thrombin Generation in Hypercholesterolemic Patients
Circulation, February 1, 2005; 111(4): 412 - 419.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
V. Sanguigni, D. Ferro, P. Pignatelli, M. Del Ben, T. Nadia, M. Saliola, R. Sorge, and F. Violi
CD40 ligand enhances monocyte tissue factor expression and thrombin generation via oxidative stress in patients with hypercholesterolemia
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., January 4, 2005; 45(1): 35 - 42.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
A. D. Michelson
Platelet Function Testing in Cardiovascular Diseases
Circulation, November 9, 2004; 110(19): e489 - e493.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
JAOA: Journal of the American Osteopathic AssociationHome page
R. J. Chilton
Pathophysiology of Coronary Heart Disease: A Brief Review
J Am Osteopath Assoc, September 1, 2004; 104(9_suppl): 5S - 8S.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
BloodHome page
F. Akbiyik, D. M. Ray, K. F. Gettings, N. Blumberg, C. W. Francis, and R. P. Phipps
Human bone marrow megakaryocytes and platelets express PPAR{gamma}, and PPAR{gamma} agonists blunt platelet release of CD40 ligand and thromboxanes
Blood, September 1, 2004; 104(5): 1361 - 1368.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
S. Kinlay, G. G. Schwartz, A. G. Olsson, N. Rifai, W. J. Sasiela, M. Szarek, P. Ganz, P. Libby, and for the Myocardial Ischemia Reduction with Aggress
Effect of Atorvastatin on Risk of Recurrent Cardiovascular Events After an Acute Coronary Syndrome Associated With High Soluble CD40 Ligand in the Myocardial Ischemia Reduction with Aggressive Cholesterol Lowering (MIRACL) Study
Circulation, July 27, 2004; 110(4): 386 - 391.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
P. M Ridker, N. J. Brown, D. E. Vaughan, D. G. Harrison, and J. L. Mehta
Established and Emerging Plasma Biomarkers in the Prediction of First Atherothrombotic Events
Circulation, June 29, 2004; 109(25_suppl_1): IV-6 - IV-19.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
M. I. Furman, L. A. Krueger, M. D. Linden, M. R. Barnard, A. L. Frelinger III, and A. D. Michelson
Release of soluble CD40L from platelets is regulated by glycoprotein IIb/IIIa and actin polymerization
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., June 16, 2004; 43(12): 2319 - 2325.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
P. Aukrust, J. K. Damas, and N. O. Solum
Soluble CD40 ligand and platelets: self-perpetuating pathogenic loop in thrombosis and inflammation?
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., June 16, 2004; 43(12): 2326 - 2328.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
H. S. Lim, A. D. Blann, and G. Y.H. Lip
Soluble CD40 Ligand, Soluble P-Selectin, Interleukin-6, and Tissue Factor in Diabetes Mellitus: Relationships to Cardiovascular Disease and Risk Factor Intervention
Circulation, June 1, 2004; 109(21): 2524 - 2528.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
J. T. Willerson and P. M. Ridker
Inflammation as a Cardiovascular Risk Factor
Circulation, June 1, 2004; 109(21_suppl_1): II-2 - II-10.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
U. Schonbeck and P. Libby
Inflammation, Immunity, and HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors: Statins as Antiinflammatory Agents?
Circulation, June 1, 2004; 109(21_suppl_1): II-18 - II-26.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Diabetes CareHome page
G. Targher and G. Zoppini
Soluble CD40L in Young Type 1 Diabetic Individuals Without Clinical Microvascular and Macrovascular Complications
Diabetes Care, May 1, 2004; 27(5): 1236 - 1237.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
HypertensionHome page
D. N. Granger, T. Vowinkel, and T. Petnehazy
Modulation of the Inflammatory Response in Cardiovascular Disease
Hypertension, May 1, 2004; 43(5): 924 - 931.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
S.A. Harding, J. Sarma, D.H. Josephs, N.L. Cruden, J.N. Din, P.J. Twomey, K.A.A. Fox, and D.E. Newby
Upregulation of the CD40/CD40 Ligand Dyad and Platelet-Monocyte Aggregation in Cigarette Smokers
Circulation, April 27, 2004; 109(16): 1926 - 1929.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
NEJMHome page
M. J. Roman, B.-A. Shanker, A. Davis, M. D. Lockshin, L. Sammaritano, R. Simantov, M. K. Crow, J. E. Schwartz, S. A. Paget, R. B. Devereux, et al.
Prevalence and Correlates of Accelerated Atherosclerosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
N. Engl. J. Med., December 18, 2003; 349(25): 2399 - 2406.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
F. Cipollone, C. Ferri, G. Desideri, L. Paloscia, G. Materazzo, M. Mascellanti, M. Fazia, A. Iezzi, C. Cuccurullo, B. Pini, et al.
Preprocedural Level of Soluble CD40L Is Predictive of Enhanced Inflammatory Response and Restenosis After Coronary Angioplasty
Circulation, December 2, 2003; 108(22): 2776 - 2782.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
P. E. Szmitko, C.-H. Wang, R. D. Weisel, J. R. de Almeida, T. J. Anderson, and S. Verma
New Markers of Inflammation and Endothelial Cell Activation: Part I
Circulation, October 21, 2003; 108(16): 1917 - 1923.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USAHome page
K. S. S. Prasad, P. Andre, M. He, M. Bao, J. Manganello, and D. R. Phillips
Soluble CD40 ligand induces {beta}3 integrin tyrosine phosphorylation and triggers platelet activation by outside-in signaling
PNAS, October 14, 2003; 100(21): 12367 - 12371.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
M. Naghavi, P. Libby, E. Falk, S. W. Casscells, S. Litovsky, J. Rumberger, J. J. Badimon, C. Stefanadis, P. Moreno, G. Pasterkamp, et al.
From Vulnerable Plaque to Vulnerable Patient: A Call for New Definitions and Risk Assessment Strategies: Part II
Circulation, October 14, 2003; 108(15): 1772 - 1778.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
GutHome page
S Danese, J A Katz, S Saibeni, A Papa, A Gasbarrini, M Vecchi, and C Fiocchi
Activated platelets are the source of elevated levels of soluble CD40 ligand in the circulation of inflammatory bowel disease patients
Gut, October 1, 2003; 52(10): 1435 - 1441.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
N. Varo, J. A. de Lemos, P. Libby, D. A. Morrow, S. A. Murphy, R. Nuzzo, C. M. Gibson, C. P. Cannon, E. Braunwald, and U. Schonbeck
Soluble CD40L: Risk Prediction After Acute Coronary Syndromes
Circulation, September 2, 2003; 108(9): 1049 - 1052.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
D. Bereczki, E. Nagy, A. Pal, M. T. Magyar, J. Balla, G. J. Blake, R. J. Ostfeld, E. K. Yucel, N. Varo, U. Schonbeck, et al.
Should Soluble CD40 Ligand Be Measured From Serum or Plasma Samples? *
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., June 12, 2003; 23(6): 1129 - 1130.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
N. Varo, D. Vicent, P. Libby, R. Nuzzo, A. L. Calle-Pascual, M. R. Bernal, A. Fernandez-Cruz, A. Veves, P. Jarolim, J. J. Varo, et al.
Elevated Plasma Levels of the Atherogenic Mediator Soluble CD40 Ligand in Diabetic Patients: A Novel Target of Thiazolidinediones
Circulation, June 3, 2003; 107(21): 2664 - 2669.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Circ. Res.Home page
J. E. Freedman
CD40-CD40L and Platelet Function: Beyond Hemostasis
Circ. Res., May 16, 2003; 92(9): 944 - 946.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
N. Marx, A. Imhof, J. Froehlich, L. Siam, J. Ittner, G. Wierse, A. Schmidt, W. Maerz, V. Hombach, and W. Koenig
Effect of Rosiglitazone Treatment on Soluble CD40L in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Coronary Artery Disease
Circulation, April 22, 2003; 107(15): 1954 - 1957.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
NEJMHome page
C. Heeschen, S. Dimmeler, C. W. Hamm, M. J. van den Brand, E. Boersma, A. M. Zeiher, M. L. Simoons, and the CAPTURE Study Investigators
Soluble CD40 Ligand in Acute Coronary Syndromes
N. Engl. J. Med., March 20, 2003; 348(12): 1104 - 1111.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
NEJMHome page
J. E. Freedman
CD40 Ligand -- Assessing Risk Instead of Damage?
N. Engl. J. Med., March 20, 2003; 348(12): 1163 - 1165.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
L. Nannizzi-Alaimo, V. L. Alves, and D. R. Phillips
Inhibitory Effects of Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa Antagonists and Aspirin on the Release of Soluble CD40 Ligand During Platelet Stimulation
Circulation, March 4, 2003; 107(8): 1123 - 1128.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
J Am Coll CardiolHome page
A. G. Semb, S. van Wissen, T. Ueland, T. Smilde, T. Waehre, M. D. Tripp, S. S. Froland, J. J. P. Kastelein, L. Gullestad, T. R. Pedersen, et al.
Raised serum levels of soluble CD40 ligand in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia: downregulatory effect of statin therapy
J. Am. Coll. Cardiol., January 15, 2003; 41(2): 275 - 279.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Bio.Home page
G. J. Blake, R. J. Ostfeld, E. K. Yucel, N. Varo, U. Schonbeck, M. A. Blake, M. Gerhard, P. M. Ridker, P. Libby, and R. T. Lee
Soluble CD40 Ligand Levels Indicate Lipid Accumulation in Carotid Atheroma: An In Vivo Study With High-Resolution MRI
Arterioscler. Thromb. Vasc. Biol., January 1, 2003; 23(1): e11 - 14.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
U. Schonbeck, N. Gerdes, N. Varo, R. S. Reynolds, D. B. Horton, U. Bavendiek, L. Robbie, P. Ganz, S. Kinlay, and P. Libby
Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Augments and 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase Inhibitors Limit CD40 and CD40L Expression in Human Vascular Cells
Circulation, December 3, 2002; 106(23): 2888 - 2893.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
P. Andre, L. Nannizzi-Alaimo, S. K. Prasad, and D. R. Phillips
Platelet-Derived CD40L: The Switch-Hitting Player of Cardiovascular Disease
Circulation, August 20, 2002; 106(8): 896 - 899.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
C. Urbich, E. Dernbach, A. Aicher, A. M. Zeiher, and S. Dimmeler
CD40 Ligand Inhibits Endothelial Cell Migration by Increasing Production of Endothelial Reactive Oxygen Species
Circulation, August 20, 2002; 106(8): 981 - 986.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
F. Cipollone, A. Mezzetti, E. Porreca, C. Di Febbo, M. Nutini, M. Fazia, A. Falco, F. Cuccurullo, and G. Davi
Association Between Enhanced Soluble CD40L and Prothrombotic State in Hypercholesterolemia: Effects of Statin Therapy
Circulation, July 23, 2002; 106(4): 399 - 402.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
D. L. Bhatt and E. J. Topol
Need to Test the Arterial Inflammation Hypothesis
Circulation, July 2, 2002; 106(1): 136 - 140.
[Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
CirculationHome page
L. Nannizzi-Alaimo, M. H. Rubenstein, V. L. Alves, G. Y. Leong, D. R. Phillips, and H. K. Gold
Cardiopulmonary Bypass Induces Release of Soluble CD40 Ligand
Circulation, June 18, 2002; 105(24): 2849 - 2854.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


Home page
Circ. Res.Home page
U. Schonbeck and P. Libby
CD40 Signaling and Plaque Instability
Circ. Res., December 7, 2001; 89(12): 1092 - 1103.
[Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]


This Article
Right arrow Abstract Freely available
Right arrow Full Text (PDF)
Right arrow Alert me when this article is cited
Right arrow Alert me if a correction is posted
Right arrow Citation Map
Services
Right arrow Email this article to a friend
Right arrow Similar articles in this journal
Right arrow Similar articles in PubMed
Right arrow Alert me to new issues of the journal
Right arrow Download to citation manager
Right arrowRequest Permissions
Citing Articles
Right arrow Citing Articles via HighWire
Right arrow Citing Articles via Google Scholar
Google Scholar
Right arrow Articles by Schönbeck, U.
Right arrow Articles by Ridker, P. M.
Right arrow Search for Related Content
PubMed
Right arrow PubMed Citation
Right arrow Articles by Schönbeck, U.
Right arrow Articles by Ridker, P. M.
Right arrowPubmed/NCBI databases
*Compound via MeSH
*Substance via MeSH
Related Collections
Right arrow Risk Factors
Right arrow Growth factors/cytokines
Right arrow Epidemiology