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Updated: Jun 24, 2026
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A Method to Study the Correlation Between Local Collagen Structure and Mechanical Properties of Atherosclerotic Plaque Fibrous Tissue
Published on: November 11, 2022
Angiogenesis as risk factor for plaque vulnerability
Rossella Di Stefano1, Francesca Felice, Alberto Balbarini
1Thoracic and Vascular Department, University of Pisa, Italy. r.distefano@ao-pisa.toscana.it
Current Pharmaceutical Design
|April 10, 2009
Summary
Intraplaque angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels within atherosclerotic plaques, may increase plaque vulnerability and rupture risk. Targeting this process offers a potential therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis complications.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Inflammatory Diseases
- Vascular Medicine
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory condition involving lipid accumulation and plaque destabilization.
- Neovascularization (angiogenesis) within plaques is linked to vulnerable, rupture-prone lesions.
- These microvessels contribute to intraplaque hemorrhage and plaque progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of intraplaque angiogenesis in atherosclerosis.
- To discuss its potential as a risk factor for plaque vulnerability and rupture.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting neoangiogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on atherosclerosis, inflammation, and angiogenesis.
- Analysis of pathological and imaging findings related to intraplaque neovascularization.
- Discussion of current challenges in identifying and targeting vulnerable plaques.
Main Results:
- Vulnerable plaques exhibit increased vasa vasorum, necrotic cores, and intraplaque hemorrhage.
- Intraplaque microvessels are a source of hemorrhage and lipid accumulation.
- The causal link between angiogenesis and atherosclerosis progression remains controversial.
Conclusions:
- Intraplaque angiogenesis is a significant factor in atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability.
- Targeting neoangiogenesis presents a potential therapeutic avenue.
- Improved imaging techniques are needed to identify rupture-prone lesions.
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