Plasma MR-proANP levels are associated with carotid intima-media thickness in the general community: The KORA F4 study

- MR-proANP levels are inversely related to the metabolic syndrome.
- MR-proANP levels are inversely related to type 2 diabetes.
- Intima-media thickness is associated with components of the metabolic syndrome.
- MR-proANP levels are inversely related to intima-media thickness.

ObjectiveSubjects with metabolic syndrome (MetS) and individuals with type 2 diabetes are at high risk for vascular complications. Hormones acting on vascular endothelium may be involved in the atherogenic process associated with metabolic disorders. The objective of this study was to determine the correlation of pro-atrial natriuretic hormone (proANP) with the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis.MethodsIn 1272 subjects participating in the KORA F4 study, we determined plasma levels of mid-regional proANP (MR-proANP) and the intima-media thickness (IMT) of the carotid artery. We used logistic regression models to investigate the relation of MR-proANP with components of MetS and IMT.ResultsIn multiple adjusted regression models, MR-proANP levels were inversely associated with MetS (OR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.47-0.93), central obesity (OR = 0.67, 95% CI 0.46-0.96), raised triglyceride levels (OR = 0.53, 95% CI 0.37-0.77), prediabetes (OR = 0.62, 95%, CI 0.44-0.87) and type 2 diabetes (OR = 0.55, 95% CI 0.35-0.88) when comparing the top quartile vs. the lower three quartiles. Furthermore, there was an inverse relationship between MR-proANP and IMT. After adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk markers, individuals with high MR-proANP plasma levels in the top quartile (Q4) had significantly lower IMT values (Q4 vs. Q1-Q3: β −0.0178, 95% CI −0.0344; −0.0013).ConclusionsIn this population-based study, high plasma concentrations of MR-proANP were significantly associated with a lower incidence of MetS components and lower measures of early atherosclerosis. The data suggest a link between MR-proANP levels and the development of vascular complications.