Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Abstract

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is a key contributor to myocardial ischemia and cardiovascular diseases. It is characterized by abnormalities of the coronary microvasculature, leading to impaired myocardial perfusion. Although CMD has a high prevalence in patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease and is associated with adverse cardiovascular events, its pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated. Current diagnostic approaches combine noninvasive and invasive methods, but there remains a lack of effective targeted therapies. This review discusses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic strategies, and treatment options for CMD, with a particular focus on the protective role of the neuregulin-1 (NRG-1)/v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog B (ErbB) signaling pathway. We initially outline how the NRG-1/ErbB pathway affects endothelial function, ventricular remodeling, oxidative stress, and myocardial angiogenesis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target. In addition, we explore emerging evidence that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) interventions may regulate the NRG-1/ErbB axis to improve microvascular function and cardiac outcomes. Overall, this review deepens our understanding of the mechanisms underlying CMD and provides new avenues for integrated precision therapies, including TCM, with the aim of improving clinical management and prognosis in patients with CMD.

Keywords

coronary microvascular dysfunction / diagnosis / NRG-1/ErbB signaling pathway / traditional Chinese medicine / treatment

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