Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) syndrome represents a complex interplay between cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and metabolic disorders such as diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. These conditions are interconnected through shared pathophysiological pathways, including chronic low-grade inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Dysregulation of adipokines, insulin resistance, and mitochondrial dysfunction further amplify the risk of organ damage and metabolic imbalance, perpetuating a cycle of progression.
At the cellular level, inflammatory cytokines such as IL-6 and TNF-α, along with oxidative stress-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS), drive vascular endothelial injury and podocyte apoptosis, linking CVD and CKD pathogenesis. Simultaneously, hyperglycemia and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) contribute to fibrosis and microvascular complications, exacerbating both renal and cardiovascular damage. Cross-talk between the kidney and heart through cardiorenal syndromes highlights the bidirectional nature of these conditions, with fluid overload and neurohormonal activation creating a synergistic effect on disease progression.
Despite increasing recognition of CKM syndrome as a unified clinical entity, significant gaps remain in understanding its precise molecular underpinnings and effective strategies for risk mitigation. This Research Topic will explore cutting-edge findings and innovative solutions to address the growing global burden of CKM syndrome.
In this Research Topic, we aim to create a comprehensive forum to explore innovative strategies for managing the interconnected risks of cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome. By addressing the cellular and molecular mechanisms linking cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic disorders, we seek to enhance understanding of their shared pathophysiology and bidirectional interactions. This Research Topic seeks contributions that address novel approaches to risk management in CKM syndrome, with the goal of reducing disease burden and improving patient outcomes. Potential topics include, but are not limited to: - Insights into molecular and cellular pathways linking CKM syndrome components, such as inflammation, insulin resistance, and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system activation. - Advances in early diagnostic markers or predictive tools for CKM syndrome progression. - Evaluating multifaceted intervention strategies including lifestyle, pharmacological, and surgical approaches. - The vital role of multidisciplinary care in managing CKM syndrome, focusing on integrating cardiology, nephrology, and endocrinology specialties. - Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to tailor and enhance treatment outcomes. - Health disparities in CKM syndrome outcomes and strategies for equitable care models. - Emerging therapeutic approaches, including novel drug classes, gene therapy, and microbiome modulation.
We welcome submissions from basic science, translational research, and clinical practice that provide novel insights or comprehensive reviews in these areas. By fostering an interdisciplinary dialogue, this Research Topic aims to advance the field of CKM syndrome risk management and set a foundation for innovative and integrative care approaches.
Article types and fees
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Brief Research Report
Case Report
Clinical Trial
Editorial
FAIR² Data
General Commentary
Hypothesis and Theory
Methods
Mini Review
Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.
Article types
This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:
Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
