[Antioxidants and vascular diseases]

Recent data on the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis have revealed various mechanisms damaging the vessel wall by the reactive oxidative substances, mainly by the oxidised LDL, which lead to an inflammation process, resulting in the thickening of the arterial wall and atherosclerotic plaque formation. In these events the oxidative free radicals exert a lot of harmful effects: by the further oxidation of lipids, activation of smooth cells and macrophages, inducing apoptosis and necrosis of endothelial cells. These mechanisms can be blocked by some drugs at several points as listed in the paper. The results of observational studies and clinical trials by vitamin E, angiotensin convertase enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin type-1 receptor blockers, calcium channel blockers and statin treatment are reviewed and evaluated. Possibilities of appropriate antioxidant substitution modes are put forward. Achievements in the regression of atherosclerotic plaques are discussed, since these therapeutic modalities render atherosclerosis a treatable disease.