ACCEL Lite: Featured ACCEL Interviews on Exciting CV Research

ardiac and hepatic function are closely interconnected, with deterioration in one organ often accelerating disease progression in the other. Emerging evidence, including data suggesting semaglutide may slow or halt liver fibrosis progression, highlights the need to rethink how we manage patients with overlapping heart and liver disease. By examining the heart–liver axis, clinicians can gain insight into more integrated approaches to care and consider why this clinically important connection has only recently gained broader attention. 

 
In this interview, Richard A. Chazal MD, MACC and Vishal N. Rao, MD, MPH examine the interconnectedness of cardiovascular (CV) and hepatic risk.

Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) syndrome encompasses a spectrum of interconnected cardiovascular, kidney, and metabolic conditions that progress through defined stages. A five-stage CKM treatment framework emphasizes timely identification of risk factors, structured and personalized risk discussions, and early, interdisciplinary intervention. By targeting obesity, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease, this approach supports comprehensive risk reduction and improved long-term cardiometabolic outcomes. 

 
In this interview, Alison L. Bailey, MD, FACC and  Chiadi E. Ndumele, MD, PhD discuss Addressing Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome Health.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains a devastating, progressive disease with high morbidity and mortality despite advances in targeted therapies. Sotatercept, the most recent addition to the PAH treatment landscape, has demonstrated robust efficacy across multiple phase 3 randomized clinical trials. The HYPERION trial expands the evidence base by showing a favorable benefit–risk profile for sotatercept when used early in the disease course. Pooled analyses across trials further suggest that sotatercept may have a meaningful impact on mortality in patients with PAH. 

In this interview, Mary Norine Walsh MD, MACC and Vallerie V. McLaughlin, MD, FACC discuss the phase 3 HYPERION trial.

Caffeinated coffee may reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation through several proposed mechanisms, including improved autonomic balance, antioxidant effects, and enhanced vascular function. While observational data have hinted at these benefits, randomized trial evidence has been limited. Findings from the DECAF Trial further demonstrate that atrial fibrillation patients do not need to avoid caffeinated coffee—and that it may even help lower their risk of future episodes. 

 In this interview, Matthew W. Martinez MD, FACC and Gregory M. Marcus, MD, FACC discuss the 'Does Eliminating Coffee Avoid Fibrillation (DECAF)' Trial.

The 2025 High Blood Pressure Guideline introduces key updates to the 2017 recommendations, reflecting the evolving understanding of hypertension and its long‑term impact on patient health. This update emphasizes evidence‑based strategies for diagnosis and management, highlighting the importance of standardized guidelines in improving outcomes. Key takeaways include refined treatment thresholds, enhanced risk‑stratification approaches, and clearer direction for individualized patient care. Looking ahead, the guideline underscores a forward‑thinking approach that integrates emerging research to support more proactive hypertension management. 

 In this interview, Clyde W. Yancy MD, MACC and Daniel W. Jones, MD discuss the 2025 AHA/ACC High Blood Pressure Guideline.