Metformin Directly Suppresses Atherosclerosis In Normoglycemic Mice Via Haematopoietic Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (Ampk)

Abstract

Atherosclerotic vascular disease has an inflammatory pathogenesis. Heme from intraplaque haemorrhage may drive a protective and pro-resolving macrophage M2-like phenotype, Mhem, via AMPK and activating transcription factor 1 (ATF1). The antidiabetic drug metformin may also activate AMPK-dependent signalling. Hypothesis: Metformin systematically induces atheroprotective genes in macrophages via AMPK and ATF1, thereby suppresses atherogenesis.