A new study by the Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) Munich shows that reduced activity of the immune signal interleukin-6 (IL-6) can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke and peripheral artery disease without increasing susceptibility to infections. The results, published in the journal Nature Cardiovascular Research, could advance the development of new therapies for cardiovascular diseases.

The research team, led by Dr. Marios Georgakis from LMU’s Institute of Stroke and Dementia Research (ISD), used extensive human genetic analyses to simulate the effects of drugs that inhibit IL-6. While earlier studies focused on the IL-6 receptor and suspected an increased risk of infection, the new study focused directly on the IL6 gene for the first time, which codes for the immune signal itself. Genetic data from over half a million people of European and East Asian origin were evaluated.

The analysis found that genetic variants associated with lower IL-6 signaling not only reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, but also reduce the likelihood of serious infections such as pneumonia and sepsis. This finding refutes concerns that IL-6 inhibition could weaken the immune system. In addition, the results point to potential metabolic benefits, including a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and an improved lipid profile.

The study highlights the potential of IL-6 inhibitors, which are currently being tested in clinical trials for cardiovascular disease. By using human genetic data, the researchers were able to predict the efficacy and safety of such therapies. The results pave the way for the development of precise and safe treatment approaches that could reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and possibly other metabolic diseases.

Original Paper:

IL6 genetic perturbation mimicking IL-6 inhibition is associated with lower cardiometabolic risk | Nature Cardiovascular Research

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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