Pathophysiology of Atherosclerotic Plaque Development-Contemporary Experience and New Directions in Research

Abstract

Atherosclerotic plaque is the pathophysiological basis of important and life-threatening diseases such as myocardial infarction. Although key aspects of the process of atherosclerotic plaque development and progression such as local inflammation, LDL oxidation, macrophage activation, and necrotic core formation have already been discovered, many molecular mechanisms affecting this process are still to be revealed. This minireview aims to describe the current directions in research on atherogenesis and to summarize selected studies published in recent years—in particular, studies on novel cellular pathways, epigenetic regulations, the influence of hemodynamic parameters, as well as tissue and microorganism (microbiome) influence on atherosclerotic plaque development. Finally, some new and interesting ideas are proposed (immune cellular heterogeneity, non-coding RNAs, and immunometabolism) which will hopefully bring new discoveries in this area of investigation.

Surface-modified nanotherapeutics targeting atherosclerosis

“…Interactions with other plaque-infiltrating immune cells-neutrophils, T and B lymphocytes, and dendritic cells-lead to plaque instability and rupture, clinically manifesting as acute coronary syndrome. 9,10 Numerous innate immune cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells (DCs), and monocytes, etc., are associated with atherosclerosis progression. 11 At vascular sites of atherosclerosis, lipoproteins and chemokines (CCR2) accumulate subendothelially and trigger the influx of monocytes into the vessel wall.…”

“…Interactions with other plaque-infiltrating immune cells—neutrophils, T and B lymphocytes, and dendritic cells—lead to plaque instability and rupture, clinically manifesting as acute coronary syndrome. 9,10…”

Evaluation of interleukin-17 receptor (IL-17RA) gene expression in PBMCs of patients with premature coronary artery disease

“…Numerous infl ammatory cytokines contribute in every part of atherosclerosis (17)(18)(19)(20)(21)(22)(23)(24)(25). In this regard, the roles of chemoattractants including chemokine 2 (CCL2) and CCL5, which promote the recruitment of monocytes (18), as well as secretion of pro-infl ammatory cytokines: IL-1 β, IL-6, and TNF-α in NF-κB signaling in infl ammation (19) have been identifi ed.…”

Prediction of carotid plaque by blood biochemical indices and related factors based on Fisher discriminant analysis

“…CVD can be controlled, and earlier treatment and intervention for patients with carotid plaque can effectively reduce the mortality of CVD [4]. However, the clinical diagnosis of carotid plaque is single, expensive, and complex, and can not meet the requirements for the prevention of carotid plaque [5][6][7]. Therefore, appropriate screening tools are integral to the early detection and prevention of major cardiovascular events.…”