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Quantitative Analysis of Cellular Composition in Advanced Atherosclerotic Lesions of Smooth Muscle Cell Lineage-Tracing Mice
Published on: February 20, 2019
Novel targets for the treatment of atherosclerosis
Mahesh T Chhabria1, Pathik S Brahmkshatriya
1Department of Medicinal Chemistry, LM College of Pharmacy, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. mt_chhabria@icenet.net
Abstract:
Atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of death in developed countries and thus demands the development of safe therapeutic treatments. Novel risk factors, in addition to the traditional targets, are being assessed. The significance of inflammation in atherosclerotic plaque development has become indisputable. A large number of published studies support the fact that investigations of the inflammatory aspects of atherosclerosis will be the target for future development. The C-reactive protein in particular has drawn specific attention due to its role as an inflammatory marker of atherosclerosis. Novel targets for atherosclerotic intervention include inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis and absorption such as acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase, acyl-coenzyme A:diacylglycerol acyltransferase and cholesteryl ester transfer protein inhibitors, potential novel antioxidants other than anti-inflammatory peroxisome proliferator activated receptor agonists, and apolipoprotein A-I mimetic peptides.
Insights
Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death, is increasingly linked to inflammation. Future treatments may target inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein and novel pathways.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Inflammation Research
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a primary cause of mortality globally, necessitating advanced therapeutic strategies.
- Inflammation plays a critical, undeniable role in the development of atherosclerotic plaques.
- C-reactive protein is a key inflammatory marker associated with atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging risk factors and therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis.
- To highlight the importance of inflammation in atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
- To discuss novel therapeutic interventions beyond traditional targets.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on atherosclerosis, inflammation, and therapeutic targets.
- Analysis of the role of C-reactive protein as an inflammatory marker.
- Identification of novel therapeutic agents targeting cholesterol metabolism, inflammation, and lipid transfer.
Main Results:
- Inflammation is a central factor in atherosclerotic plaque progression.
- C-reactive protein serves as a significant indicator of atherosclerotic inflammation.
- Several novel therapeutic targets are emerging, including specific enzyme inhibitors and peptide-based therapies.
Conclusions:
- Targeting inflammation and novel pathways represents a promising future direction for atherosclerosis treatment.
- Inhibitors of cholesterol synthesis/absorption, antioxidants, and apolipoprotein A-I mimetics show therapeutic potential.
- Further research into these novel targets is crucial for developing effective anti-atherosclerosis therapies.
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