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A Human Ex Vivo Atherosclerotic Plaque Model to Study Lesion Biology
Published on: May 6, 2014
The role of immune complexes in atherogenesis
Dayangku Fatiha Pengiran Burut1, Yousuf Karim, Gordon A A Ferns
1Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Daphne Jackson Rd, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7WG, UK.
Abstract:
Atherosclerosis is now recognized as a chronic inflammatory disease and is characterized by features of inflammation at all stages of its development. It also appears to display elements of autoimmunity, and several autoantibodies including those directed against oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and heat shock proteins (Hsps) have been identified in atherosclerosis. Immune complexes (ICs) may form between these antigens and autoantibodies and via Fc receptor signaling and complement activation may modulate the inflammation in atherosclerosis. Antibody isotype may direct the role that ICs play in atherogenesis, immunoglobulin G (IgG) being potentially pro-atherogenic and immunoglobulin M (IgM) playing a protective role. Therapeutic options targeting complement activation and those which are potentially Fc-receptor mediated have been investigated in animal models, though targeting Fc receptor signaling is an area that needs further investigation.
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