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[Inflammatory mechanisms, arteriosclerosis and ischemic stroke: clinical data and perspectives].
L C Alvaro-González1, M M Freijo-Guerrero, F Sádaba-Garay
1Servicio de Nurología, Hospital de Basurto, Bilbao, España. lalvaro@hbas.osakidetza.net
Revista De Neurologia
|October 10, 2002
Summary
Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death, is an inflammatory disease. Understanding its inflammatory mechanisms, including key molecules and cellular processes, is crucial for developing effective stroke prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Immunology
- Pathology
Context:
- Atherosclerosis is a primary cause of mortality and disability in developed nations, frequently leading to ischemic cardiopathy and stroke.
- Ischemic atherothrombotic stroke represents the most prevalent form of stroke.
Purpose:
- This review elucidates the underlying mechanisms of the atherosclerotic process.
- It examines atherosclerosis as an inflammatory disease, supporting the 'response to injury' hypothesis.
Summary:
- The process begins with endothelial dysfunction, followed by an inflammatory cascade involving humoral and cellular factors.
- Key elements include adhesion molecules (E selectin, ICAM 1, VCAM 1), cytokines (IL-1, TNF-a), growth factors (PDGF, FGF), and systemic inflammation markers (C-reactive protein, fibrinogen).
Impact:
- Evidence highlights inflammation's central role in stroke pathogenesis.
- This understanding facilitates the development of targeted therapeutic strategies, including anti-inflammatory approaches and receptor inhibitors, for stroke prevention.