Effects of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors on Coronary Plaque Characteristics in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Description

This research project, entitled “Effects of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 Inhibitors on Coronary Plaque Characteristics in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials,” aims to systematically evaluate the effects of DPP-4 inhibitors on coronary atherosclerotic plaque burden, composition, and progression in patients with coronary artery disease and dysglycemia. The study synthesizes evidence from randomized controlled trials utilizing advanced cardiovascular imaging techniques, including intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and three-dimensional quantitative coronary angiography (3D-QCA). Following PRISMA guidelines, the research incorporates comprehensive literature searching, independent study selection, standardized data extraction, risk-of-bias assessment, and quantitative meta-analysis. The analysis includes six randomized controlled trials involving 273 participants and examines multiple cardiovascular parameters, including plaque volume, lipid and fibrotic composition, coronary calcification, and vascular remodeling. The project seeks to clarify the potential anti-atherosclerotic effects of DPP-4 inhibitors, assess their clinical relevance, and identify evidence gaps that may guide future cardiovascular research.