Chemokines as potential therapeutic targets in atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Immunology
• Molecular Medicine

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a global health issue driven by chronic inflammation and cell migration within vessel walls.
• Chemokines (CK) and chemokine receptors (CKR) are key mediators of this cellular recruitment process.
• Various CK/CKR families and other chemoattractants are implicated in the development of atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of chemokines and chemokine receptors in atherogenesis.
• To discuss current therapeutic strategies targeting chemokine-mediated cell recruitment.
• To highlight challenges and future directions for exploiting the chemokine system in atherosclerosis treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on chemokines, chemokine receptors, and atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of in vitro assays, in vivo animal models, and human genetic studies.
• Evaluation of therapeutic approaches including antibodies, inhibitors, and antagonists.

Main Results:

• Multiple chemokine systems (CC, CX3C, CXC) and chemoattractants contribute to atherosclerotic lesion development.
• Therapeutic strategies targeting CK/CKR pathways are under investigation, with some entering clinical trials.
• Validation of pathogenic roles has been achieved through diverse experimental models.

Conclusions:

• Inhibition of CK-dependent cell recruitment is a promising therapeutic avenue for atherosclerosis.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the complex CK system and its specific roles.
• Overcoming challenges in translatability, imaging, and surrogate markers is crucial for clinical success.