# hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein)

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a liver-produced acute-phase protein, induced primarily by IL-6, and measured with an assay sensitive enough to detect low-grade systemic inflammation. Outside acute infection, persistently elevated hs-CRP signals chronic inflammation linked to atherosclerosis, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. hs-CRP is a downstream marker of IL-6–driven inflammation; Mendelian randomization does not support CRP itself as causal for coronary heart disease, while trials targeting upstream inflammation (e.g., CANTOS with canakinumab) reduce cardiovascular events. It remains a useful marker of inflammatory burden associated with cardiovascular and mortality risk.

## Sources

- Ridker PM, Danielson E, Fonseca FA, Genest J, Gotto AM, Kastelein JJ, et al.. (2008). Rosuvastatin to prevent vascular events in men and women with elevated C-reactive protein (JUPITER trial). New England Journal of Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMoa0807646
- Ridker PM, Hennekens CH, Buring JE, Rifai N. (2000). C-reactive protein and other markers of inflammation in the prediction of cardiovascular disease in women. New England Journal of Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJM200003233421202

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_Canonical: https://longevity-germany.com/en/glossary/hs-crp · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-01-15_