Cardiac hypertrophy in chronic kidney disease—role of Aldosterone and FGF23

Abstract

Abstract Cardiac hypertrophy is a life-threatening disorder and is frequently observed in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Much attention has been focused on the derangement in hormonal factors, including aldosterone and FGF23, as novel causes of cardiac hypertrophy in CKD. Plasma aldosterone concentrations are elevated as renal function declines. Although aldosterone antagonists are available for the treatment of hypertension with cardiac hypertrophy, concern remains regarding the possible occurrence of serious hyperkalemia. Alternatively, certain types of calcium channel blockers suppress aldosterone synthesis or exert blocking action for mineralocorticoid receptors and could halt the progression of cardiac dysfunction. Recently, FGF23 is shown to be elevated as CKD progresses and may be responsible for the development of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. Furthermore, FGF23 not only inhibits the renal expression of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 but also enhances renin gene transcription, both of which could accelerate renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Although the increase in serum phosphate concentrations is a pivotal stimulus for FGF23 production, recent studies suggest that reduced iron status and elevated aldosterone levels, frequently seen in patients with CKD or on dialysis, might also contribute to the elevation in serum FGF23 levels. Conversely, phosphate binders and appropriate iron status could reduce serum FGF23, potentially leading to the alleviation of cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. In conclusion, novel therapeutic strategies associated with aldosterone and FGF23 may confer a benefit in the management of cardiac disorders in CKD.

Keywords

• Aldosterone
• FGF23
• Cardiac hypertrophy
• Phosphate
• Iron
• Ca channel blockers