1 SVKM's Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies, School of Pharmacy and Technology Management, Shirpur,425405
2,3,4 Department of Pharmacology, P Wadhwani College of Pharmacy, Girija Nagar, Yavatmal, 445001
Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is a significant concern in oncology, affecting cancer patients' long-term cardiovascular health. Various chemotherapeutic agents, including anthracyclines, HER2 inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), and immune checkpoint inhibitors, exhibit distinct cardiotoxic mechanisms, leading to complications such as left ventricular dysfunction, arrhythmias, heart failure, and vascular toxicity. Early detection and cardioprotective strategies are crucial in mitigating these adverse effects. This systematic review aims to evaluate the mechanisms, clinical impact, and cardioprotective strategies associated with chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. The review explores pharmacological interventions, non-pharmacological strategies, and emerging cardio-oncology approaches to enhance cardiovascular outcomes in cancer patients. A systematic literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on peer-reviewed studies published in the last two decades. Studies assessing the pathophysiology of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, and emerging cardio-oncology strategies were included. Data were synthesized through qualitative analysis, and findings were structured into key thematic areas. Anthracyclines exert irreversible cardiac damage via oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, while HER2 inhibitors induce reversible myocardial dysfunction. Pharmacological cardio-protection, including beta-blockers (carvedilol, nebivolol), ACE inhibitors (enalapril, ramipril), and dexrazoxane, effectively mitigates chemotherapy-induced cardiac dysfunction. Non-pharmacological strategies such as structured exercise programs, dietary modifications, and routine biomarker-based monitoring (troponins, NT-proBNP, echocardiographic strain imaging) aid in early detection and prevention. Emerging cardio-oncology approaches, including genetic risk stratification, precision medicine, and stem cell therapy, show promise in personalized cardio-protection. Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity remains a major challenge in oncology, requiring a multidisciplinary approach to prevention, early detection, and management. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions play a crucial role in mitigating cardiovascular risks, while precision medicine and regenerative therapies represent future directions in cardio-oncology. Standardized guidelines integrating biomarker-based monitoring and patient-specific cardioprotective strategies are essential to optimize cardiovascular outcomes in cancer patients. Further research is needed to refine existing interventions and explore novel therapeutic approaches to enhance long-term cardiac health in oncology care.
Chemotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, significantly improving survival rates across various malignancies. However, the adverse effects of chemotherapeutic agents on cardiovascular health pose a substantial challenge, leading to chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (CIC) [1]. CIC manifests as a spectrum of cardiac dysfunctions, including heart failure, myocardial ischemia, arrhythmias, and hypertension, severely impacting patient quality of life and overall prognosis [2]. The increasing prevalence of cancer survivorship has amplified the importance of understanding the mechanisms underlying cardiotoxicity and identifying effective strategies for prevention and management [3]. Cardiotoxicity is a major concern in cancer therapeutics, with reported incidence rates varying based on drug class, cumulative dose, patient susceptibility, and preexisting cardiovascular risk factors [4]. Anthracyclines, such as doxorubicin, are among the most notorious cardiotoxic agents, with an estimated 5–48% risk of heart failure, particularly at high cumulative doses [5]. Similarly, targeted therapies, including HER2 inhibitors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, have been implicated in cardiac dysfunction, necessitating early detection andintervention [6]. With the rising burden of cancer-related cardiac complications, there is an urgent need to develop systematic approaches for mitigating these adverse effects while maintaining the efficacy of oncologic treatments [7]. While extensive research has explored chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity, significant gaps remain in understanding the interplay between different drug mechanisms and cardioprotective interventions [8]. Current guidelines emphasize risk stratification and early detection; however, there is a lack of consensus on standardized preventive measures across different drug classes and patient populations [9]. A systematic review of existing literature can consolidate evidence on CIC mechanisms, drug-specific cardiotoxic profiles, and emerging protective strategies, aiding in the development of comprehensive cardiology-oncology collaborative care models [10].
This systematic review aims to address the following research objectives:
2. METHODOLOGY
2.1 Study Design and Systematic Review Protocol
This systematic review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, ensuring a rigorous and transparent approach to data collection, selection, and synthesis [11]. The review is designed to evaluate existing literature on chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (CIC), its mechanisms, and cardioprotective strategies by analyzing peer-reviewed studies from various medical and scientific databases. A structured search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies, followed by data extraction, risk-of-bias assessment, and synthesis of findings.
2.2 Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria:
2.3 Search Strategy and Databases Used
A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library, to retrieve relevant literature [12]. The search was performed using a combination of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords related to cardiotoxicity, chemotherapy, anthracyclines, HER2 inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, cardiac dysfunction, oxidative stress, cardio-protection, and cardiomyopathy. Boolean operators (AND, OR) were used to refine the search strategy. E.g.: "Cardiotoxicity OR chemotherapy-induced cardiac dysfunction" AND ("Anthracyclines" OR "HER2 inhibitors" OR "Tyrosine kinase inhibitors") AND ("Oxidative stress" OR "Inflammation" OR "Apoptosis") AND ("Cardio-protection" OR "Beta-blockers" OR "Dexrazoxane")
2.4 Data Extraction and Quality Assessment (PRISMA Framework)
Data from selected studies were extracted using a standardized data collection form, capturing key details such as study design, population characteristics, chemotherapeutic agents studied, cardiotoxic effects observed, and cardioprotective interventions assessed [13].
2.5 Risk of Bias Assessment
To ensure methodological quality, two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias in each included study using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool for randomized controlled trials and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for observational studies [14]. Any discrepancies were resolved by a third reviewer. Bias was assessed in the following domains:
The overall risk of bias was categorized as low, moderate, or high, ensuring the credibility of the synthesized evidence [15].
3. Mechanisms of Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity (CIC)
Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity (CIC) occurs through various molecular and cellular pathways that disrupt normal cardiac function. The extent of damage depends on drug class, dosage, patient susceptibility, and preexisting cardiovascular conditions [16]. The primary mechanisms of CIC include direct myocardial toxicity, vascular endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative stress, and genetic/epigenetic modifications.
3.1 Direct Myocardial Toxicity
Several chemotherapeutic agents exert direct toxic effects on cardiomyocytes, leading to cardiac cell apoptosis, necrosis, and fibrosis. These effects impair left ventricular function and may result in heart failure.
Table 1: Mechanisms of Direct Myocardial Toxicity by Chemotherapeutic Agents
Chemotherapeutic Agent |
Mechanism of Myocardial Toxicity |
Cardiac Effects |
Anthracyclines (Doxorubicin, Daunorubicin) |
Topoisomerase II inhibition → DNA damage, apoptosis via p53 activation |
Dilated cardiomyopathy, heart failure [17] |
HER2 Inhibitors (Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab) |
HER2 signaling blockade → Impaired cardiomyocyte survival |
Reversible cardiomyopathy, LV dysfunction [18] |
Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (Sunitinib, Imatinib) |
Mitochondrial dysfunction, ATP depletion |
Left ventricular dysfunction, arrhythmias [19] |
Alkylating Agents (Cyclophosphamide, Ifosfamide) |
Direct endothelial and myocyte injury via reactive oxygen species (ROS) |
Acute cardiomyopathy, heart failure [20] |
Anthracyclines, such as doxorubicin, generate free radicals and induce DNA intercalation, leading to cardiomyocyte apoptosis [17]. Unlike anthracyclines, trastuzumab-related cardiotoxicity is reversible because it does not cause myocardial cell death but rather disrupts cellular repair mechanisms [18].
3.2 Vascular Toxicity and Endothelial Dysfunction
Vascular endothelial dysfunction plays a crucial role in CIC by promoting vasoconstriction, thrombosis, and impaired nitric oxide (NO) signaling. These alterations contribute to hypertension, ischemia, and myocardial infarction [21].
3.2.1 Mechanisms of vascular toxicity:
For example, bevacizumab, a VEGF inhibitor, disrupts normal endothelial function, increasing the risk of hypertension and arterial thrombosis [23].
3.3 Inflammation and Immune System Involvement
Inflammation is a key contributor to CIC, with several chemotherapeutic agents inducing a pro-inflammatory state that accelerates cardiac damage.
3.3.1 Inflammatory Pathways Involved in CIC:
For example, immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) such as nivolumab and pembrolizumab have been associated with immune-mediated myocarditis, a rare but often fatal condition [25].
3.4 Role of Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage play a central role in chemotherapy-induced cardiomyopathy. Excessive ROS production leads to:
Table 2: Oxidative Stress in Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity
Oxidative Stress Mechanism |
Impact on Cardiac Cells |
Drugs Implicated |
Mitochondrial ROS production |
DNA damage, apoptosis |
Anthracyclines [27] |
Lipid peroxidation |
Disrupts cell membranes |
Cyclophosphamide [28] |
NADPH oxidase activation |
Enhances oxidative stress |
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors [29] |
For instance, anthracyclines induce ROS-mediated mitochondrial damage, leading to apoptosis and cardiac dysfunction [27].
3.5 Genetic and Epigenetic Modifications
Recent studies suggest that chemotherapy can induce genetic and epigenetic changes in cardiomyocytes, contributing to long-term cardiac dysfunction.
3.5.1 Epigenetic alterations in CIC include:
For example, anthracyclines can alter epigenetic landscapes, affecting genes involved in oxidative stress responses [31].
4. Cardiotoxicity Profiles of Major Chemotherapeutic Agents
Different classes of chemotherapeutic agents exert varying degrees of cardiotoxicity through distinct mechanisms. Understanding their cardiotoxic profiles is essential for developing risk mitigation strategies.
4.1 Anthracyclines: The Prototype of Cardiotoxicity
Anthracyclines (e.g., Doxorubicin, Daunorubicin, Epirubicin) are among the most well-documented cardiotoxic agents. Their toxicity is dose-dependent and primarily manifests as dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure.
Table 3: Cardiotoxic Effects of Anthracyclines
Drug |
Mechanism of Cardiotoxicity |
Clinical Manifestations |
Risk Factors |
Doxorubicin |
Topoisomerase II inhibition → DNA damage, ROS generation |
Dilated cardiomyopathy, heart failure |
Cumulative dose>450 mg/m², age>65 years, pre-existing CVD [32] |
Daunorubicin |
Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress |
LV dysfunction, arrhythmias |
High cumulative dose, concurrent chest radiation [33] |
Epirubicin |
Free radical formation, apoptosis |
Heart failure (lower risk than doxorubicin) |
Obesity, hypertension [34] |
Clinical Implications:
4.2 HER2 Inhibitors: Reversible Cardiotoxicity
HER2 inhibitors (e.g., Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab, Lapatinib) interfere with HER2-mediated cardiomyocyte survival pathways, leading to LV dysfunction and heart failure. Unlike anthracyclines, HER2-induced cardiotoxicity is usually reversible.
Table 4: Cardiotoxic Effects of HER2 Inhibitors
Drug |
Mechanism |
Cardiac Effects |
Reversibility |
Trastuzumab |
HER2 signaling blockade |
Asymptomatic LV dysfunction, heart failure |
Yes (upon discontinuation) [36] |
Pertuzumab |
HER2 inhibition |
Mild LV dysfunction |
Yes [37] |
Lapatinib |
HER2/EGFR dual blockade |
LV dysfunction |
Yes (dose-dependent) [38] |
Clinical Implications:
4.3 Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs): Multi-Targeted Toxicity
TKIs (e.g., Sunitinib, Imatinib, Dasatinib) target signaling pathways that regulate both cancer progression and cardiac function, leading to hypertension, arrhythmias, and LV dysfunction.
Table 5: Cardiotoxic Effects of TKIs
Drug |
Primary Mechanism |
Cardiac Effects |
Sunitinib |
VEGF inhibition → Hypertension, mitochondrial dysfunction |
LV dysfunction, heart failure, QT prolongation [39] |
Imatinib |
ABL kinase inhibition |
Cardiomyocyte apoptosis, LV dysfunction [40] |
Dasatinib |
Src inhibition |
Pulmonary hypertension[41] |
Clinical Implications:
4.4 Alkylating Agents: Acute and Chronic Cardiotoxicity
Alkylating agents (e.g., Cyclophosphamide, Ifosfamide, Cisplatin) are associated with acute and delayed cardiovascular complications, including heart failure and thromboembolic events.
Table 6: Cardiotoxic Effects of Alkylating Agents
Drug |
Mechanism |
Cardiac Effects |
Cyclophosphamide |
Endothelial damage, oxidative stress |
Acute myocarditis, heart failure [42] |
Ifosfamide |
Mitochondrial dysfunction, acrolein toxicity |
Arrhythmias, LV dysfunction [43] |
Cisplatin |
Endothelial dysfunction, thrombogenesis |
Hypertension, myocardial ischemia [44] |
Clinical Implications:
4.5 Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors (ICIs): Autoimmune Cardiotoxicity
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab, Ipilimumab) enhance T-cell activation, which can lead to immune-mediated myocarditis—a severe but rare complication.
Table 7: Cardiotoxic Effects of ICIs
Drug |
Mechanism |
Cardiac Effects |
Incidence |
Nivolumab |
PD-1 inhibition → T-cell hyperactivation |
Myocarditis, heart failure |
0.1-1% [45] |
Pembrolizumab |
PD-1 blockade |
Arrhythmias, LV dysfunction |
Rare [46] |
Ipilimumab |
CTLA-4 inhibition |
Myocarditis, pericarditis |
0.2-1% [47] |
Clinical Implications:
5. Cardioprotective Strategies in Chemotherapy-Induced Cardiotoxicity
Effective cardioprotective strategies aim to mitigate the cardiovascular risks associated with chemotherapeutic agents without compromising their anti-cancer efficacy. These strategies include pharmacological interventions, lifestyle modifications, early detection measures, and emerging cardio-oncology approaches.
5.1 Pharmacological Cardio-protection
Several classes of cardiovascular drugs have been explored for preventing or reducing chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity.
5.1.1 Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers, particularly carvedilol, nebivolol, and metoprolol, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy by attenuating oxidative stress and sympathetic overactivation [48].
Table 8: Beta-Blockers for Cardiotoxicity Prevention
Drug |
Mechanism of Action |
Effect on Cardiotoxicity |
Clinical Evidence |
Carvedilol |
β1/β2 blockade, antioxidant |
Reduces LV dysfunction, oxidative stress |
CECCY trial: Lower troponin levels |
Nebivolol |
β1 blockade, NO-mediated vasodilation |
Preserves LVEF in anthracycline-treated patients |
CARING study: Improved cardiac outcomes |
Metoprolol |
Selective β1 blockade |
Reduces arrhythmic risk |
Decreased mortality in high-risk patients |
5.1.2 ACE Inhibitors and ARBs
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) counteract myocardial remodeling and fibrosis induced by chemotherapeutic agents, particularly anthracyclines and TKIs.
Table 9: ACE Inhibitors and ARBs in Cardiotoxicity Prevention
Drug |
Mechanism of Action |
Effect on Cardiotoxicity |
Clinical Evidence |
Enalapril |
Inhibits RAAS activation |
Reduces LV dysfunction in anthracycline-treated patients |
ICOS-ONE trial: Improved LVEF preservation |
Ramipril |
Prevents myocardial fibrosis |
Decreases HF incidence |
PROMISE trial: Lower hospitalization rates |
Valsartan |
Blocks AT1 receptor |
Reduces cardiac workload in HER2 therapy |
SAFER-HER trial: Improved LV function |
5.1.3 Dexrazoxane: The Only FDA-Approved Cardioprotective Agent
Dexrazoxane acts by chelating iron, reducing free radical formation and protecting cardiac myocytes from anthracycline toxicity. It is currently approved for high-dose anthracycline regimens.
5.2 Non-Pharmacological Strategies
Non-pharmacological approaches complement pharmacological interventions by reducing additional cardiovascular risk factors.
5.2.1 Exercise and Physical Conditioning
Aerobic and resistance exercise training has been shown to improve cardiovascular fitness, enhance endothelial function, and reduce inflammation in cancer patients receiving cardiotoxic agents.
5.2.2 Dietary Modifications and Nutritional Support
A cardio-protective diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and polyphenols may reduce oxidative damage induced by chemotherapy.
Table 10: Dietary Components for Cardiotoxicity Prevention
Nutrient |
Mechanism |
Cardioprotective Effect |
Omega-3 fatty acids |
Anti-inflammatory reduces lipid peroxidation |
Lowers risk of LV dysfunction |
Polyphenols |
Antioxidant enhances NO bioavailability |
Improves endothelial function |
Coenzyme Q10 |
Mitochondrial bioenergetics |
Reduces anthracycline-induced oxidative stress |
5.3 Early Detection and Monitoring
Early identification of subclinical cardiotoxicity is crucial for timely intervention.
5.3.1 Biomarker-Based Monitoring
5.3.2 Imaging-Based Surveillance
5.3.3 Monitoring Guidelines (ESC 2022):
5.4 Emerging Strategies in Cardio-Oncology
5.4.1 Precision Medicine and Genetic Screening
5.4.2 Cardiac Regeneration Therapies
DISCUSSION
Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is a growing concern in oncology, as improved cancer survival rates have led to increased recognition of cardiovascular complications associated with treatment. This systematic review highlights the mechanisms of cardiotoxicity, the impact of various chemotherapeutic agents, and available cardioprotective strategies. The pathophysiology of chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is complex and varies across different classes of drugs. Anthracyclines exert their cardiotoxic effects primarily through oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and DNA damage, leading to irreversible cardiac injury. HER2 inhibitors, while reversible in nature, disrupt cardiomyocyte signaling pathways, predisposing patients to left ventricular dysfunction [82]. Other agents, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors and TKIs, induce inflammation, vascular toxicity, and hypertension, further increasing cardiovascular risk. Several patient-specific factors exacerbate chemotherapy-related cardiac complications. Pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, age, cumulative drug dose, and concurrent therapies significantly influence susceptibility to cardiac damage. Understanding these risk factors is essential for early intervention and risk stratification.
The findings suggest that pharmacological cardio-protection, particularly beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and dexrazoxane, has shown efficacy in mitigating chemotherapy-related cardiac dysfunction. Among beta-blockers, carvedilol and nebivolol have been extensively studied, demonstrating protective effects against oxidative stress and left ventricular remodeling. Similarly, ACE inhibitors such as enalapril and ramipril reduce myocardial fibrosis and improve left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in patients receiving anthracyclines. Dexrazoxane remains the only FDA-approved cardioprotective agent, effectively reducing anthracycline-induced toxicity; however, its use is restricted to specific cancer populations due to concerns about potential interference with chemotherapy efficacy. Non-pharmacological strategies, including structured exercise programs, dietary interventions, and routine biomarker monitoring, provide complementary protection against chemotherapy-induced cardiac damage. Aerobic and resistance exercise has been shown to improve cardiovascular fitness and reduce left ventricular dysfunction in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Additionally, biomarker-based monitoring (troponins, BNP, and echocardiographic strain imaging) enhances early detection of subclinical cardiac injury, allowing for timely intervention. The integration of precision medicine, genetic screening, and regenerative therapies into cardio-oncology represents a paradigm shift in managing chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity. Genetic markers such as RARG and SLC28A3 have been identified as predictors of anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy, allowing for patient-specific risk stratification. Advances in stem cell therapy and mitochondrial-targeted interventions hold promise for myocardial repair and recovery after chemotherapy-related injury. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in implementing standardized cardioprotective protocols. Variability in clinical guidelines, limited accessibility to early cardiac screening tools, and concerns about drug interactions necessitate further research and real-world clinical trials to establish universally accepted cardioprotective strategies.
CONCLUSION
Chemotherapy-induced cardiotoxicity is a critical challenge in oncology, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for effective prevention, early detection, and management. This systematic review highlights the complex mechanisms of cardiotoxicity across different chemotherapeutic agents and underscores the importance of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological cardioprotective strategies.
To ensure optimal patient outcomes, future research should focus on developing standardized cardio-oncology guidelines, incorporating advanced biomarker-based monitoring, and evaluating long-term cardiovascular outcomes in cancer survivors. A collaborative effort between oncologists, cardiologists, and researchers is essential to address this growing concern and improve the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
REFERENCES
Aman Rathi, Akash Dhoke, Rupali Chavhan, Isha Durgade, Cardiotoxicity of Chemotherapeutic Agents: A Systematic Review of Mechanisms and Cardio-Protective Strategies, Int. J. of Pharm. Sci., 2025, Vol 3, Issue 7, 2041-2054. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15914764