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Published on: September 26, 2018
Genetic and molecular mechanisms of chemical atherogenesis
Kenneth S Ramos1, Charles R Partridge, Ivo Teneng
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40292, United States. kenneth.ramos@louisville.edu
Abstract:
Injury to the cellular components of the vascular wall and blood by endogenous and exogenous chemicals has been associated with atherosclerosis in humans and experimental systems. The genetic and molecular mechanisms responsible for initiation and promotion of atherosclerotic changes include modulation of extracellular matrix-integrin axis, genes involved in the regulation of growth and differentiation and possibly, genomic stability. This review summarizes seminal studies over the past 20 years that shed light on critical gene-gene and gene-environment interactions mediating the atherogenic response to chemical injury.
Insights
Chemical injury to vascular cells initiates atherosclerosis. This review covers 20 years of research on gene-environment interactions and molecular mechanisms driving this disease response.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Molecular Medicine
- Atherosclerosis Research
Background:
- Chemical injury to vascular and blood components is linked to atherosclerosis.
- Atherosclerosis involves complex genetic and molecular pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key studies on atherogenesis following chemical injury.
- To elucidate gene-gene and gene-environment interactions in disease initiation and progression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of seminal studies over the past 20 years.
- Analysis of genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying atherogenic response.
Main Results:
- Identified modulation of the extracellular matrix-integrin axis as a critical factor.
- Highlighted the role of genes regulating growth, differentiation, and genomic stability.
- Emphasized the significance of gene-environment interactions in chemical injury-induced atherosclerosis.
Conclusions:
- Chemical injury triggers complex molecular events leading to atherosclerosis.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
- Further research into genetic predispositions and environmental factors is warranted.
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