Serum Hyaluronic Acid Levels are Positively Correlated to the Angiographic Extent and Severity of Coronary Artery Disease

Abstract

Aim: Hyaluronic acid (HA), an important component of the extracellular matrix which is mainly secreted from the vascular smooth muscle cells, has been demonstrated to accelerate atherosclerosis through enhanced adhesion of leukocytes to endothelial cells. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between serum HA levels and the angiographic severity and extent of coronary artery disease. Methods: One hundred and thirty-four individuals who underwent coronary angiography due to a positive stress test were included in the study. Individuals who had at least 50% percent stenosis in a major epicardial artery and a Gensini score 20 constituted the patient group (n1⁄468), and those who did not have any significant stenosis and with a Gensini score < 20 constituted the control group (n1⁄466). Serum HA levels were determined using the ELISA method. Results: Serum HA levels were significantly higher in the patient group when compared to the control group (1.9 2.2 ng/mL vs. 1.2 1.1 ng/mL, respectively; p1⁄40.016). There was a positive and significant correlation between serum HA levels and the Gensini score (r1⁄40.346, p<0.001). Conclusion: Serum levels of HA are higher in individuals with significant CAD when compared to those without, and HA levels are positively correlated to the severity and extent of CAD. The exact role of HA in CAD pathogenesis and its relationship with cardiovascular disease should be elucidated with further studies.