A new study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of metabolomics research in arterial stiffness on a less explored aspect: early vascular aging, particularly in adolescents. The study offers hope for innovative approaches to vascular health.

This research was conducted by scientists from BGI Genomics’ Institute of Intelligent Medical Research (IIMR) and published in Frontiers in Medicine at the end of May.

While fatty acid metabolism remains a well-established research field, scientists are now pivoting to emerging frontiers in bile acid and gut microbiota-derived metabolite studies.

Vascular aging in adolescents

Arterial stiffness refers to the loss of flexibility in the blood vessels, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. Over time, factors like aging, high blood pressure, and metabolic conditions can cause the arteries to stiffen.

The research acknowledges the gap in studies on arterial stiffness in adolescents, particularly those with obesity, as they represent a vulnerable group for developing early signs of vascular aging.

According to global health data, the prevalence of obesity among adolescents has surged dramatically, rising from just 4% in 1975 to 20% in 2022, reflecting significant changes in diet, physical activity, and other environmental factors. This increase in obesity, which now affects 159 million adolescents worldwide, is a key driver behind the growing interest in early vascular aging.

Researchers believe that by identifying early biomarkers and understanding the metabolic factors contributing to arterial stiffness, we can develop targeted interventions to address early vascular aging, reducing future risks of cardiovascular issues in these young populations.

Biomarkers for early intervention

Through an extensive review of over 1,600 articles published in the last 25 years, the researchers found that while much of the research has concentrated on advanced vascular aging in older populations, a significant gap remains in studying early vascular aging, especially in younger populations such as adolescents.

The study shows that certain biomarkers, like uric acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and bile acids, play critical roles in regulating metabolic pathways that influence arterial stiffness and inflammation. These findings provide new avenues for early intervention, which could help prevent the progression of vascular stiffness in the future.

The researchers also observed that conditions like metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and high cholesterol—common cardiovascular risk factors—are often associated with arterial stiffness. While these are commonly seen in adults, their presence in adolescents, particularly those with obesity, may signal the onset of early vascular aging.

Interestingly, hyperuricemia (elevated uric acid levels) has been identified as an emerging risk factor for arterial stiffness. A study involving East Asians aged 30 to 70 revealed that high serum uric acid levels not only increase the risk of arterial stiffness, but also accelerate kidney function decline.

Metabolites influence vascular health

This research brings us closer to identifying specific metabolites that are crucial in arterial stiffness. By focusing on adolescents and early vascular aging, the study opens the door to novel preventative measures that could reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in the future.

The study offers hope for a future where vascular health can be managed proactively, starting from adolescence. With further research into the specific metabolites that regulate arterial stiffness, we can better understand how to prevent and treat vascular aging at a much earlier stage, especially as we face rising obesity rates and the increasing prevalence of metabolic diseases among younger populations.

Provided by
BGI Genomics