Preface

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are globally the number one cause of death. Over 18 million lives are lost globally due to heart attack alone. CVDs range from benign arrhythmias to massive heart failures and from chronic hypertension to ischemic strokes. They occupy a central place in non-communicable diseases, and they are often the result of complex chronic metabolic disorders. Extensive researches are been conducted on the causes and treatments of CVDs. Changing lifestyle with high calories diets, sedentary life style, and smoking are among the key causes. Volume 5 of the book series “Frontiers in Cardiovascular Drug Discovery” covers 7 comprehensive reviews contributed by leading researchers. These reviews broadly cover various drug targets and new classes of therapies for the prevention or treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

The review by Ramachandran et al focusses on a fiercely debated topic in CVD, i.e. lipid hypothesis. Cholesterol and LDLs have since long been considered as risk factors of cardiovascular diseases. However, there is mounting evidence that challenge this dogma. The authors have carefully reviewed the scientific literature and conclude that the theory stands valid. Huynh et al present exciting new advancements of SGLT2i (Sodium-glucose cotransporters 2) inhibitors as an important new class of drugs. These inhibitors increase renal glucose excretion, and lead to natriuresis and glycosuria with subsequent reduction in blood glucose and associated CVDs in diabetic patients Platelet aggregation and thrombosis are the major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Piato and Graebin have the reviewed recent literature on the development of antithrombotic agents of natural and semi-synthetic origins, with a higher level of safety. Santos et al have contributed a chapter on the significance of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels as potential drug targets against cardiometabolic diseases. Mutations in some of the TRP channels are implicated in various metabolic and cardiovascular disorders, and thus activations of TRP channels through natural products may lead to the development of a new class of drugs.

Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP), vasospasm due to cold exposure and emotional stress, is a common disorder. Lambova discuss various molecular approaches towards the treatment of RP. Traditional medicines have played an important role in the treatment of human diseases, including cardiovascular disorders. Ravindran et al have reviewed pharmacological, toxicological, and informatics studies, carried on various polyherbal formulations, in order to scientifically validate their efficacy against CVDs. The chapter by Roy and Mishra is focused on the applications of system biology approach in developing a better understanding of the molecular basis of the CVDs and its comorbidities. Special emphasis is paid to the identification of biomarkers for early diagnosis of CVD for a better management of the disease states.

We would like to express our gratitude to all the authors of above cited review articles for their excellent contributions in this dynamic and exciting field of biomedical and pharmaceutical research. The efforts of the team of Bentham Science Publishers, particularly Ms. Mariam Mehdi (Assistant Manager Publications), and Mr. Mahmood Alam (Director Publications) are deeply appreciated.