C1q tumor necrosis factor related proteins (CTRPs) in patients with cardiovascular diseases

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the major cause of death in both developed and developing countries. It is widely accepted that predicting CVDs in the early stages or before the onset of the diseases could be a central goal in the management, prevention, and treatment of these diseases. Adipokines, a large and diverse group of molecules secreted by adipose tissue that affect cardiovascular function, have played a crucial role in the cardiovascular system. C1q/tumor necrosis factor-related protein (CTRP) is a newly discovered family of adipokines that are paralogs of adiponectin. This family includes 15 members (CTRP1 to CTRP15). Recent studies have shown that CTRPs have diverse biological effects on the cardiovascular system. In this review, recent research on the expression of the CTRP gene superfamily in CVDs is examined to assess their potential as new CVD biomarkers. Given the growing data on the roles of CTRPs in the physiology and development of CVDs, this review discusses the role of various types of CTRPs, including CTRP1, CTRP2, CTRP3, CTRP6, CTRP9, CTRP12, and CTRP13 in the management, prevention, and treatment of CVDs.