Is TGF-β Associated with Cytokines and Other Biochemical or Clinical Risk Parameters in Early-Onset CAD Patients?

TGF-β is an immunosuppressive cytokine. Its signaling pathway plays a role in anti-inflammatory responses. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a clinical consequence of atherosclerosis, which manifests as chronic inflammation and involves platelet mediators, including TGF-β. The aim of this study is to validate the diagnostic utility of TGF-β levels in relation to classical and molecular risk factors for CAD. The study group included 25 women and 75 men, all aged up to 55 and 50 years, respectively, who had been diagnosed with early-onset CAD. Fasting blood samples were taken to measure plasma levels of TGF-β, sCD36, PCSK9, TNF, VEGF, IL-6, and E-selectin using the ELISA method. Furthermore, a full lipid profile, apolipoproteins (Lp(a), ApoA1, and ApoB), C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and blood morphology were analyzed at the Central Hospital Laboratory. A physical examination was also performed. Positive associations were observed between TGF-β concentration and TNF, platelet count, PTC, and triglyceride levels. TNF and platelet concentration were significant independent predictors of increased plasma TGF-β levels. None of the clinical parameters showed statistically significant associations with plasma TGF-β concentration. Our research has demonstrated that TGF-β levels, including circulating TNF, triglycerides, and platelets, are linked to specific biochemical risk factors in early-onset CAD cases.