Work

Single-beat method echocardiographic comparison of ventricular-arterial coupling in adults with and without Down syndrome

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study reveals, for the first time, that adults with Down syndrome exhibit significantly lower ventricular-arterial coupling ratios, reflecting distinct cardiac timing and functional adaptations. These findings could indicate a compensatory mechanism to maintain cardiac output despite reduced diastolic pressure and smaller cardiac chambers, providing novel insight into the integrated cardiovascular physiology of adults with Down syndrome and its potential implications for exercise tolerance and long-term cardiovascular health.

Source: American Journal of Physiology-Heart and Circulatory Physiology

DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.01002.2025

Authors: Alice Matthews, Bo Fernhall, Thessa Hilgenkamp

Institutions: University of Nevada, Las Vegas, University of Massachusetts Boston

Language: English

Topic: Cardiovascular Function and Risk Factors

Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Funder: Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development