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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
New approaches to the concept of primary prevention of atherosclerosis
Monique A Ford1, Thomas G Allison, Amir Lerman
1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Abstract:
Our understanding of the etiology of atherosclerosis and the mechanisms by which conventional cardiovascular risk factors cause disease is incomplete. Atherosclerosis may be regarded as a process of continuous injury and abnormal repair. The diagnosis and treatment of the disease should be targeted to the various stages of this process, from the early stages of vascular injury to the stabilization of the vulnerable plaque. Several novel concepts in atherosclerosis have been elucidated in the past two decades. Novel biomarkers and imaging techniques for early subclinical atherosclerotic lesions may facilitate earlier primary prevention. Future primary prevention of atherosclerosis should incorporate these novel concepts for creation of individualized risk profiles and therapies.
Insights
Atherosclerosis, a disease of continuous vascular injury and repair, requires early diagnosis and targeted therapies. Novel biomarkers and imaging advance individualized prevention strategies for atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Pathology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Current understanding of atherosclerosis etiology and cardiovascular risk factor mechanisms remains incomplete.
- Atherosclerosis is characterized as a continuous process of vascular injury and abnormal repair.
- Conventional approaches often overlook the dynamic stages of disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight novel concepts in atherosclerosis elucidated over the past two decades.
- To emphasize the importance of targeting diagnosis and treatment to specific disease stages.
- To advocate for the integration of new biomarkers and imaging for early primary prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent advancements in atherosclerosis research.
- Analysis of novel biomarkers for early detection of subclinical lesions.
- Evaluation of advanced imaging techniques for vulnerable plaque assessment.
Main Results:
- Emerging concepts offer new insights into atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
- Novel biomarkers and imaging techniques enable earlier detection of atherosclerotic lesions.
- Individualized risk profiling and therapeutic strategies are becoming feasible.
Conclusions:
- Atherosclerosis management should encompass all stages, from vascular injury to plaque stabilization.
- Early detection through novel biomarkers and imaging is crucial for primary prevention.
- Future prevention strategies must incorporate individualized risk profiles and tailored therapies.
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