Topic: Metabolism: Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Cardiovascular Disease in the Elderly

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) increases significantly with age. Dysregulation of cellular metabolism plays a pivotal role in cardiac aging and enhances susceptibility to CVD. Recent studies have uncovered intriguing insights into the metabolic alterations associated with CVD during aging. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these metabolic perturbations is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies to combat aging-related CVD.

This Special Issue aims to explore the molecular mechanisms by which age-related metabolic changes, combined with sex, genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors, drive the progression of CVD in the elderly. By fostering a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between aging, metabolic alterations, and CVD, this issue seeks to identify innovative therapeutic targets and strategies. We welcome submissions in various formats, including Original Research, Reviews, Mini Reviews, and Perspectives. All contributions will undergo rigorous peer review to uphold the highest standards of quality and scientific integrity.

This Special Issue focuses on the following key topics:
1. Physiology and Pathology of Cardiac Metabolism in the Elderly.
Exploring the distinction between physiological metabolic adaptations and pathological changes in the aging heart. Investigations will address how metabolic remodeling contributes to maintaining cardiac function versus driving age-related cardiac decline.
2. Cell Type-specific Metabolic Alterations in the Aging Heart.
The heart is composed of diverse cell types, including atrial and ventricular cardiomyocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, immune cells, and smooth muscle cells, each with distinct metabolic signatures. This topic investigates how metabolic changes in specific cell types interplay to influence cardiac aging and dysfunction.
3. Sex Differences in Cardiac Metabolism with Aging.
Examining how sex hormones regulate cardiac metabolism and how hormonal shifts during aging contribute to sex-specific differences in cardiovascular risk and outcomes.
4. Immunometabolism in the Elderly.
Investigating the interaction between inflammatory pathways and metabolic processes in aging populations, focusing on how these interactions affect cardiac health and contribute to age-related CVD.
5. Epigenetics, Epitranscriptomics, and Cardiac Metabolism in Aging.
Understanding the roles of epigenetic and epitranscriptomic modifications in shaping metabolic changes in the heart, and their implications for cardiac aging and disease progression.

Metabolism, aging, senescence, cardiovascular disease, sex difference, inflammation; epigenetics, epitranscriptomics, physiology

15 May 2025