What this Trial Is About

Angina with non-obstructive coronary arteries (ANOCA) is highly prevalent, impairing quality of life and independently associated with cardiovascular events, yet effective treatments are lacking. The endothelin-1 (ET-1)-endothelin receptor (ETR) system is pivotal in ANOCA pathogenesis. Preclinical studies show that ETR blockade or pericyte-specific knockout of ETA receptor improves coronary microcirculatory function in models of myocardial ischemia-reperfusion and diabetes. Clinical evidence indicates ETR antagonists can enhance microvascular endothelial function and myocardial perfusion in ANOCA patients. However, prior studies diagnosed ANOCA based only on symptoms and angiography without precise microvascular functional assessment. Early ETR antagonists also showed frequent adverse effects (e.g., edema, headache), reducing treatment satisfaction. To address this, the investigators will conduct an open-label, single-center, single-arm trial using invasive coronary microcirculatory function testing to accurately phenotype ANOCA and assess microvascular changes. Patients on standard therapy will receive macitentan-a novel ETR antagonist with improved vasodilatory efficacy and safety-to evaluate its effects on coronary microcirculatory function, angina symptoms, and adverse events. Additionally, the investigators will perform multi-omics profiling (proteomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics) on patient blood samples to identify molecular signatures linked to ANOCA subtypes and treatment response, providing evidence for precision intervention strategies in ANOCA.

Efficacy and Mechanisms of Macitentan for Non-Coronary Obstructive Angina