Oxidative Stress, Atherogenic Dyslipidemia, and Cardiovascular Risk

Abstract

Oxidative stress is the consequence of an overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that exceeds the antioxidant defense mechanisms. Increased levels of ROS contribute to the development of cardiovascular disorders through oxidative damage to macromolecules, particularly by oxidation of plasma lipoproteins. One of the most prominent features of atherogenic dyslipidemia is plasma accumulation of small dense LDL (sdLDL) particles, characterized by an increased susceptibility to oxidation. Indeed, a considerable and diverse body of evidence from animal models and epidemiological studies was generated supporting oxidative modification of sdLDL particles as the earliest event in atherogenesis. Lipid peroxidation of LDL particles results in the formation of various bioactive species that contribute to the atherosclerotic process through different pathophysiological mechanisms, including foam cell formation, direct detrimental effects, and receptor-mediated activation of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. In this paper, we will discuss recent data on the pathophysiological role of oxidative stress and atherogenic dyslipidemia and their interplay in the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, a special focus will be placed on the clinical applicability of novel, promising biomarkers of these processes.

Interactive association of the dietary oxidative balance score and cardiovascular disease with mortality in older adults: evidence from NHANES

“…The crucial role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of CVD has been confirmed. 23 Most of the risk factors associated with CVD, including hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, are accompanied by increased production of ROS in the vessel wall. 24 This further exacerbates vascular oxidative stress and subsequently leads to endothelial dysfunction.…”

Modulation of atherosclerosis‐related signaling pathways by Chinese herbal extracts: Recent evidence and perspectives

“…Moreover, Nrf2 regulates macrophage scavenger receptor transcription (Xiang et al, 2022). Nrf2 deficiency results in elevated expression of scavenger receptor A and lectin‐type oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX‐1), accelerating ox‐LDL uptake and subsequent foam cell development (Vekic et al, 2023). Thus, Nrf2 plays a pivotal role in lipid management, not only by mitigating lipid oxidation through increased antioxidant enzyme expression but also by regulating key enzymes and transport proteins in lipid metabolism, promoting lipid clearance and reducing intracellular lipid accumulation to prevent atherosclerosis progression.…”

Therapeutic potentials of allicin in cardiovascular disease: advances and future directions

“…Its mechanism encompasses complex signalling molecules and regulatory pathways, thereby emphasizing the pivotal role of antioxidant stress in the treatment of CVD. Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and antioxidants within the body or cells when exposed to diverse detrimental stimuli, ultimately resulting in tissue damage [ 26 ]. ROS are the main compounds involved in oxidative stress reactions, including oxygen free radicals such as superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, singlet oxygen, and peroxyl radicals, as well as non-radicals that can generate free radicals, such as hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) and hypochlorous acid [ 27 ].…”