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Atherosclerosis as an inflammatory disease: implications for therapy
Nader Eldika1, Lakchminarayan Yerra, David S Chi
1Department of Internal Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Box70622, Johnson City, TN 37614-1709, USA.
Frontiers in Bioscience : a Journal and Virtual Library
|September 9, 2004
Summary
Atherosclerosis, a key factor in cardiovascular disease, involves complex molecular and cellular interactions. Targeting inflammatory pathways offers potential therapeutic strategies to control this multifactorial condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Pathophysiology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease is a primary cause of mortality in the US.
- Atherosclerosis encompasses diverse pathological lesions with varying clinical outcomes.
- Current treatments include pharmacologic therapy, lifestyle changes, and interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of atherosclerosis pathophysiology.
- To define atherosclerosis as a multifactorial process.
- To explore potential therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis control.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of pathophysiological mechanisms.
- Analysis of molecular and cellular interactions in atherosclerosis development.
- Identification of inflammatory process sites for therapeutic intervention.
Main Results:
- Atherosclerosis involves complex interactions: lipid metabolism, monocyte activation, endothelial cells, and cytokines.
- It is a multifactorial process with intricate molecular and cellular pathways.
- Therapeutic control may be achieved by targeting specific sites within the inflammatory process.
Conclusions:
- Understanding atherosclerosis pathophysiology is crucial for developing effective treatments.
- Targeting inflammatory pathways, growth factors, transcription factors, and genes presents viable therapeutic strategies.
- Interventions aimed at specific molecular and cellular mechanisms can potentially control atherosclerosis.