Phospholipids, the Masters in the Shadows during Healing after Acute Myocardial Infarction

Abstract

Phospholipids are major components of cell membranes with complex structures, high heterogeneity and critical biological functions and have been used since ancient times to treat cardiovascular disease. Their importance and role were shadowed by the difficulty or incomplete available research methodology to study their biological presence and functionality. This review focuses on the current knowledge about the roles of phospholipids in the pathophysiology and therapy of cardiovascular diseases, which have been increasingly recognized. Used in singular formulation or in inclusive combinations with current drugs, phospholipids proved their positive and valuable effects not only in the protection of myocardial tissue, inflammation and fibrosis but also in angiogenesis, coagulation or cardiac regeneration more frequently in animal models as well as in human pathology. Thus, while mainly neglected by the scientific community, phospholipids present negligible side effects and could represent an ideal target for future therapeutic strategies in healing myocardial infarction. Acknowledging and understanding their mechanisms of action could offer a new perspective into novel therapeutic strategies for patients suffering an acute myocardial infarction, reducing the burden and improving the general social and economic outcome.

The Role of Phospholipid Alterations in Mitochondrial and Brain Dysfunction after Cardiac Arrest

“…Despite the demonstrated therapeutic potential in targeting phospholipid dysregulation or directly supplementing phospholipids for various diseases [72][73][74], their clinical application remains limited. This limitation may arise from challenges in understanding the mechanistic intricacies and controlling phospholipids for experimental design, attributed to the complexity of the metabolic pathways involved [75]. However, recognizing the inherent protective effects of phospholipids against diseases, particularly cardiovascular conditions, underscores the need for nuanced approaches to fully comprehend the role of phospholipids in health and disease management.…”

Emerging Roles of Phospholipase C Beta Isozymes as Potential Biomarkers in Cardiac Disorders

“…Additionally, it regulates important cellular processes, including excitation/contraction (e-c) coupling, inflammatory responses, and cytoskeletal anchoring [1]. The influence of age and diseases can severely affect these unique properties of the SL membrane of cardiomyocytes [2]; indeed, alteration of the phospholipid profile has been associated with increased cardiovascular disease occurrence [1,3,4]. However, mechanisms underlying phospholipid remodeling in cardiac pathologies are still poorly understood.…”

Advances in Molecular Medicine: Unravelling Disease Complexity and Pioneering Precision Healthcare

“…A nicely speculative review emphasises the importance of phospholipids in cell membranes with critical functions and their potential as therapeutic targets for cardiovascular diseases, particularly acute myocardial infarction [ 13 ]. Given the significant impact of myocardial infarction on the heart, it is crucial to minimise structural and functional changes that lead to heart failure.…”