ACCEL Lite: Featured ACCEL Interviews on Exciting CV Research

In patients with Type 2 diabetes and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), tirzepatide was non‑inferior to dulaglutide for major cardiovascular events while providing superior kidney protection, lower all‑cause mortality, and greater reductions in HbA1c and body weight. Compared with dulaglutide, a GLP‑1 receptor agonist, tirzepatide demonstrated broader metabolic and clinical benefits. By using dulaglutide as the active comparator rather than a placebo, the trial demonstrated tirzepatide's strong cardiovascular and metabolic profile, supporting its potential for broader use beyond diabetes management.  In this interview, Dipti Itchhaporia MD, MACC and Stephen Nicholls, MBBS, PhD, FACC discuss the SURPASS-CVOT Trial (Effect of Tirzepatide Versus Dulaglutide on Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events).   

Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring provides important prognostic value, particularly for individuals at intermediate risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) or those with a family history of the condition. Incorporating computed tomography calcium scoring into a structured disease‑management program may help prevent the progression of coronary plaque, although this strategy has not yet been evaluated in a randomized trial.  In this interview, Allen J. Taylor, MD, FACC and Dr Nitesh Nerlekar, MBBS, PHD discuss the CAUGHT-CAD Randomized Trial: Effects of Combining Coronary Calcium Score with Treatment on Plaque Progression in Familial CAD". 

AI technology transforms routine chest computed tomography (CT) scans by precisely quantifying—rather than simply detecting—key cardiovascular imaging risk factors such as heart calcification, aorta calcification, and fat around the heart. By shifting from binary "yes or no" findings to actual measurement, clinicians can more accurately identify high‑risk patients and intervene earlier to help prevent heart attacks and strokes. Patients with these imaging risk factors who were already using preventive therapies like statins and aspirin showed lower cardiovascular risk, suggesting the need for larger longitudinal studies to clarify how quantified imaging markers interact with these medications over time.  In this interview, Deepak L. Bhatt MD, FACC and Tzung-Dau Wang, MD, PhD discuss "AI-Enabled Nationwide Opportunistic Screening of Non-Contrast Chest CT for Death and CV Outcomes". 

Ascending aortopathy (AA) is typically asymptomatic and often diagnosed incidentally, with surgical aortic replacement recommended once aneurysmal thresholds are reached. Emerging evidence suggests that indexing aortic size to patient height may more accurately identify individuals who could benefit from earlier intervention. For AA patients who do not currently meet guideline-based criteria for surgery, the aim is to assess how height-indexed aortic measurements influence longer‑term clinical outcomes in this population.    In this interview, Glenn A. Hirsch MD, MHS, FACC and Milind Y. Desai, MD, MBA, FACC discuss "Should There Be a Reappraisal of Surgical Threshold in Patients with Ascending Aortic Dilation?". 

In this interview, C. Noel Bairey Merz MD, MACC and Alison L. Bailey, MD FACC, discuss the Top Preventive Cardiology Takeaways from 2025 including trials clopidogrel versus aspirin, the benefit of vaccines, statin use in pregnancy, and more.  Suggested Materials:   Valgimigli M, Choi KH, Giacoppo D, et al. Clopidogrel versus aspirin for secondary prevention of coronary artery disease: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis. Lancet. 2025;406(10508):1091-1102. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(25)01562-4  O'Leary K. Influenza vaccination benefits patients with heart failure. Nature Medicine. 2025. doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41591-025-00058-0  Christensen JJ, Holven KB, Bogsrud MP, et al. Statin use in pregnancy and risk of congenital malformations: a Norwegian nationwide study. Eur Heart J. Published online August 21, 2025. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf592  Mozaffarian D, Agarwal M, Aggarwal M, et al. Nutritional priorities to support GLP-1 therapy for obesity: A joint Advisory from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, the American Society for Nutrition, the Obesity Medicine Association, and The Obesity Society. Obesity (Silver Spring). 2025;33(8):1475-1503. doi:10.1002/oby.24336  Brett AS. New Variations on GLP-1–Receptor Agonists are Coming (NEJM/Clinician website). 2025. Available at: https://clinician.nejm.org/new-variations-glp-1receptor-agonists-coming-nejm-jw.NA58926. Accessed 12/17/25.   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

In this interview, DJ Lakkireddy, MBBS, FACC and Alison L. Bailey, MD FACC, discuss the Top Electrophysiology Takeaways from 2025 including trials CLOSURE-AF, ALONE-AF, NEMESIS-PFA, and more.   Suggested Materials:  1. Verma A, Birnie DH, Jiang C, et al. Antithrombotic Therapy after Successful Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation. N Engl J Med. Published online November 8, 2025. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2509688    2. Landmesser U, Skurk C, Kirchhof P, et al. Catheter-based left atrial appendage CLOSURE in patients with atrial fibrillation at high risk of stroke and bleeding as compared to best medical therapy: Rationale and design of the prospective randomized CLOSURE-AF trial. Am Heart J. Published online September 12, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.ahj.2025.09.005   3. Kim D, Shim J, Choi EK, et al. Long-Term Anticoagulation Discontinuation After Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: The ALONE-AF Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2025;334(14):1246-1254. doi:10.1001/jama.2025.14679    4. Lakkireddy D, Katapadi A, Garg J, et al. NEMESIS-PFA: Investigating Collateral Tissue Injury Associated With Pulsed Field Ablation. JACC Clin Electrophysiol. 2025;11(8):1747-1756. doi:10.1016/j.jacep.2025.04.017    5. Wazni OM, Saliba WI, Nair DG, et al. Left Atrial Appendage Closure after Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation. N Engl J Med. 2025;392(13):1277-1287. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2408308   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

Multimodality imaging plays a pivotal role in evaluating inflammatory cardiomyopathy, particularly when cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) is suspected. Symptoms of CS include unexplained high-grade AV block, ventricular arrhythmias, reduced left ventricular function, or regional wall thinning without coronary disease. The best evaluation combines cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for structural and scar assessment with fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography (PET) for detecting active inflammation and extracardiac involvement.    In this interview, Michelle Kittleson MD, FACC and Ron Blankstein, MD, FACC discuss "Multimodality Imaging in Inflammatory Cardiomyopathy."  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

In this interview, Allen J. Taylor, MD, FACC and Alison L. Bailey, MD FACC, discuss the Top Clinical Cardiology Takeaways from 2025 including trials SCOT-HEART 2, ALONE-AF, Launch-HTN, and more.     Suggested Materials:  1. Kim D, Shim J, Choi EK, et al. Long-Term Anticoagulation Discontinuation After Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation: The ALONE-AF Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2025;334(14):1246-1254. doi:10.1001/jama.2025.14679   2. Lemesle G, Didier R, Steg PG, et al. Aspirin in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome Receiving Oral Anticoagulation. N Engl J Med. 2025;393(16):1578-1588. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2507532   3. Packer M, Zile MR, Kramer CM, et al. Tirzepatide for Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction and Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2025;392(5):427-437. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2410027   4. Flack JM, Azizi M, Brown JM, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Baxdrostat in Uncontrolled and Resistant Hypertension. N Engl J Med. 2025;393(14):1363-1374. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2507109   5. Saxena M, Laffin L, Borghi C, et al. Lorundrostat in Participants With Uncontrolled Hypertension and Treatment-Resistant Hypertension: The Launch-HTN Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA. 2025;334(5):409-418. doi:10.1001/jama.2025.9413   6. McDermott M, Khaing PH, Meah MN, et al. CT Angiography, Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors, and Preventive Therapy: A Nested Substudy of the SCOT-HEART 2 Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Cardiol. 2025;10(8):841-850. doi:10.1001/jamacardio.2025.1763  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

In this interview, Deepak Bhatt, MD, MPH, FACC and Alison L. Bailey, MD FACC, discuss the Top Interventional Cardiology Takeaways from 2025 including DanGer Shock trial, revascularization in STEMI, aspirin withdrawal after PCI, and more.     Suggested Materials:  1. Møller JE, Beske RP, Engstrøm T, et al. Long-Term Outcomes of the DanGer Shock Trial. N Engl J Med. 2025;393(10):1037-1038. doi:10.1056/NEJMc2508284      2. Ueyama HA, Akita K, Kiyohara Y, et al. Optimal Strategy for Complete Revascularization in ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction and Multivessel Disease: A Network Meta-Analysis. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2025;85(1):19-38. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2024.09.1231     3. Généreux P, Schwartz A, Oldemeyer JB, et al. Transcatheter Aortic-Valve Replacement for Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis. N Engl J Med. 2025;392(3):217-227. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2405880      4. Guimarães PO, Franken M, Tavares CAM, et al. Early Withdrawal of Aspirin after PCI in Acute Coronary Syndromes. N Engl J Med. Published online August 31, 2025. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2507980    5. Valgimigli M, Choi KH, Giacoppo D, et al. Clopidogrel versus aspirin for secondary prevention of coronary artery disease: a systematic review and individual patient data meta-analysis. Lancet. 2025;406(10508):1091-1102. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(25)01562-4  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

he PANTHER study indicates that clopidogrel provides superior protection against major cardiovascular events compared to aspirin in patients with coronary artery disease, without increasing bleeding risk. This supports its use in individuals at higher risk of gastrointestinal complications, reinforcing current clinical preferences. Overall, these results could inform long-term treatment strategies and improve outcomes for millions of patients worldwide.    In this interview, Alison L. Bailey, MD, FACC and Prof. Marco Valgimigli discuss "PANTHER-P2Y12 Inhibitor or Aspirin moNoTHERapy as Secondary Prevention in Patients with CAD".    Suggested Materials:  1. Giacoppo D, Gragnano F, Watanabe H, et al. P2Y12 inhibitor or aspirin after percutaneous coronary intervention: individual patient data meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials. BMJ. 2025;389:e082561. Published 2025 Jun 4. doi:10.1136/bmj-2024-082561  2. Valgimigli M, Hong SJ, Gragnano F, et al. De-escalation to ticagrelor monotherapy versus 12 months of dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with and without acute coronary syndromes: a systematic review and individual patient-level meta-analysis of randomised trials. Lancet. 2024;404(10456):937-948. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(24)01616-7  3. P2Y(12) Inhibitor or Aspirin Monotherapy for Secondary Prevention of Coronary Events. Gragnano F, Cao D, Pirondini L, Franzone A, Kim HS, von Scheidt M, Pettersen AR, Zhao Q, Woodward M, Chiarito M, McFadden EP, Park KW, Kastrati A, Seljeflot I, Zhu Y, Windecker S, Kang J, Schunkert H, Arnesen H, Bhatt DL, Steg PG, Calabrò P, Pocock S, Mehran R, Valgimigli M; PANTHER Collaboration. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2023;82(2):89-105. doi: 10.1016/j.jacc.2023.04.051  Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

In this interview, Clyde Yancy MD, MSc, MACC and Alison L. Bailey, MD FACC, discuss the Top Heart Failure Takeaways from 2025 including trials SUMMIT and BaxHTN, the ACC/AHA Blood Pressure Guidelines, and more.  Suggested Materials:  1. Jones DW, Ferdinand KC, Taler SJ, et al. 2025 AHA/ACC/AANP/AAPA/ABC/ACCP/ACPM/AGS/AMA/ASPC/NMA/PCNA/SGIM Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Joint Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2025;86(18):1567-1678. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2025.05.007    2. Khan SS, Coresh J, Pencina MJ, et al. Novel Prediction Equations for Absolute Risk Assessment of Total Cardiovascular Disease Incorporating Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2023;148(24):1982-2004. doi:10.1161/CIR.0000000000001191    3. Yancy CW. Heart Failure: A Century View, From Failure to Function. Circulation. 2025;151(9):585-588. doi:10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.124.072249    4. Packer M, Zile MR, Kramer CM, et al. Tirzepatide for Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction and Obesity. N Engl J Med. 2025;392(5):427-437. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2410027    5. Flack JM, Azizi M, Brown JM, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Baxdrostat in Uncontrolled and Resistant Hypertension. N Engl J Med. 2025;393(14):1363-1374. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2507109    Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

In this interview, Amit R. Patel, MD, FACC and Alison L. Bailey, MD FACC, discuss the Top Cardiovascular Imaging Takeaways from 2025 including myocardial fibroblast activation, photon-counting detector CT, the newly published ACC/AHA CT Advanced Training Statement, and more.  Suggested Materials:  1. Nijveldt R, Maeng M, Beijnink CWH, et al. Immediate or Deferred Nonculprit-Lesion PCI in Myocardial Infarction. N Engl J Med. Published online October 28, 2025. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2512918      2. Barton AK, Craig NJ, Loganath K, et al. Myocardial Fibroblast Activation After Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Positron Emission Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Study. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2025;85(6):578-591. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2024.10.103     3. Sakai K, Shin D, Singh M, et al. Diagnostic Performance and Clinical Impact of Photon-Counting Detector Computed Tomography in Coronary Artery Disease. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2025;85(4):339-348. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2024.10.069   4. Baldassarre LA, Mendes LA, Blankstein R, et al. 2025 ACC/AHA/ASE/ASNC/SCCT/SCMR Advanced Training Statement on Advanced Cardiovascular Imaging: A Report of the ACC Competency Management Committee. J Am Coll Cardiol. Published online November 18, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2025.07.036   5. Sahashi Y, Ieki H, Yuan V, et al. Artificial Intelligence Automation of Echocardiographic Measurements. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2025;86(13):964-978. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2025.07.053   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

Inflammation is a key contributor to cardiovascular disease (CVD), influencing both its onset and progression. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) serves as a reliable biomarker for detecting systemic inflammation and assessing cardiovascular risk. Recognizing the role of inflammation helps refine risk stratification and guide preventive strategies in the general population.    In this interview, Nanette Kass Wenger MD, MACC and Prof. Dr. Florian Kahles, MD discuss "C-Reactive Protein and CV Risk in the General Population".   SUGGESTED MATERIALS:  Amezcua-Castillo E, González-Pacheco H, Sáenz-San Martín A, et al. C-Reactive Protein: The Quintessential Marker of Systemic Inflammation in Coronary Artery Disease-Advancing toward Precision Medicine. Biomedicines. 2023;11(9):2444. Published 2023 Sep 2. doi:10.3390/biomedicines11092444    Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

The ALONE-AF study examined outcomes in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients who remained free of recurrence following catheter ablation. Researchers found that discontinuing oral anticoagulation (OAC) was associated with a lower risk of stroke, systemic embolism, or major bleeding compared to continued OAC. These findings, presented at the ESC Congress 2025, suggest that stopping OAC may offer a safer long-term strategy for select post-ablation AF patients. This could mark a meaningful shift in how clinicians approach anticoagulation management in this population.  In this interview, Dhanunjaya "DJ" Lakkireddy MBBS, FACC and Boyoung Joung, MD, PhD discuss "ALONE-AF: Discontinuing Long-Term Oral Anticoagulation After Successful AFib Ablation".    SUGGESTED MATERIALS:  New data on oral anticoagulation after successful ablation of atrial fibrillation (escardio.org website). 2025. Available at: https://www.escardio.org/The-ESC/Press-Office/Press-releases/New-data-on-oral-anticoagulation-after-successful-ablation-of-atrial-fibrillation#. Accessed 11/9/25.   Subscribe on Apple Podcasts | Subscribe to ACCEL 

Imaging is a powerful tool in managing obesity, helping clinicians visualize fat distribution and detect complications like fatty liver disease or heart issues. Advanced techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans guide personalized treatment plans and monitor progress over time. Despite challenges with equipment limitations, innovations like artificial intelligence and specialized scanners are making imaging more accessible and accurate for patients with obesity.  In this interview, W. Douglas Weaver MD, MACC and Mouaz H. Al-Mallah, MD, FACC discuss "How Does Imaging Guide Management in Patients with Obesity?"    Subscribe on Apple Podcasts  

In the TACSI trial, researchers evaluated ticagrelor plus aspirin versus aspirin alone in about 2,200 patients who underwent coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) for acute coronary syndrome (ACS). At 12 months, dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) did not reduce major adverse cardiac events compared to aspirin alone. However, it was associated with a higher risk of major bleeding. These findings do not support routine DAPT use post-CABG in ACS patients, though longer-term follow-up is still needed.   In this interview, Drs. Steven E. Nissen and Anders Jeppsson discuss "TACSI Trial: Dual or Single Antiplatelet Therapy After CABG in Patients With ACS".   SUGGESTED MATERIALS:  Jeppsson A, James S, Moller CH, et al. Ticagrelor and Aspirin or Aspirin Alone after Coronary Surgery for Acute Coronary Syndrome. N Engl J Med. Published online September 1, 2025. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2508026   TACSI: Dual or single antiplatelet therapy after CABG in patients with acute coronary syndrome: Reported from ESC Congress 2025 (PCRonline website). 2025. Available at: https://www.pcronline.com/News/Whats-new-on-PCRonline/2025/ESC/TACSI-Dual-or-single-antiplatelet-therapy-after-CABG-in-patients-with-acute-coronary-syndrome. Accessed 10/31/25.   Subscribe to ACCEL 

Current clinical challenges in lipid control include achieving and maintaining target LDL-cholesterol levels in patients at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, especially those who do not respond adequately to standard therapies. The VICTORION-Difference trial demonstrated that an inclisiran-based treatment strategy significantly outperformed usual care in helping patients reach early and sustained LDL-C goals. This approach also resulted in fewer muscle-related side effects, a common barrier to adherence. Inclisiran offers a convenient, effective, and well-tolerated option for improving lipid management in these patients.    In this interview, Drs. Kim A. Williams and Ulf Landmesser discuss "VICTORION-Difference: Inclisiran-Based Strategy vs. Standard of Care."   Subscribe to ACCEL 

What if your genes could predict a life-threatening condition before symptoms ever appear? Explore how medical science uncovered the genetic roots of thoracic aortic aneurysm—and why that discovery changed everything. From famous historical figures to modern patients, the implications are profound: understanding the exact genetic mutation can guide treatment and safeguard entire families.   In this interview, Drs. Jeroen J. Bax and John A. Elefteriades discuss "Aortopathies: What A Cardiologist Needs to Know".   Subscribe to ACCEL 

Can a newer, more targeted pacing method revolutionize heart failure treatment? The PhysioSync-HF trial investigates conduction system pacing as a potentially more effective and affordable alternative to traditional cardiac resynchronization therapy. Explore the surprising differences between this study and prior research and hear firsthand what it was like to lead a nationwide, publicly funded clinical trial across Brazil. This episode dives deep into innovation, equity, and the future of heart care.  In this interview, Drs. Joseph Marine and André Zimerman discuss "PhysioSync-HF: Conduction System vs. Biventricular Pacing in Cardiac Resynchronization in HFrEF".   Subscribe to ACCEL 

The DAPT SHOCK AMI trial is the first major study to evaluate antiplatelet therapy specifically in patients with cardiogenic shock (CS) following acute myocardial infarction (AMI). It compares initial treatment strategies using cangrelor versus crushed ticagrelor. Early and potent platelet inhibition is critical for restoring microvascular reperfusion in this high-risk population. Previous randomized trials have excluded these patients, leaving a gap in evidence for optimal antiplatelet management in AMI-CS.    In this interview, Drs. Dipti Itchhaporia and Zuzana Motovska discuss "DAPT-SHOCK-AMI Trial: Cangrelor in Cardiogenic Shock".  Subscribe to ACCEL