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Atherogenic factors and their epigenetic relationships
Ana Z Fernandez1, Andrew L Siebel, Assam El-Osta
1Hemostasia and Vascular Genetics Laboratory, Biophysics and Biochemistry Center, Venezuelan Institute for Scientific Research IVIC, Carretera Panamericana km11, P.O. 26973, Caracas 1020, Venezuela.
International Journal of Vascular Medicine
|December 15, 2010
Summary
Epigenetics, including DNA methylation, influences how major risk factors like high cholesterol and blood sugar affect blood vessel cells. Understanding these epigenetic changes may reveal new ways to prevent atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Epigenetics
- Molecular Medicine
Background:
- Major risk factors for atherogenesis include hypercholesterolemia, homocysteine, oxidative stress, and hyperglycemia.
- These factors impact vascular cell physiology and biochemistry, with a long history of study.
- Epigenetics has emerged as a critical factor in understanding human disease development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of epigenetic modifications in atherogenesis.
- To summarize recent findings on how atherogenic risk factors affect epigenetic tags in vascular cells.
- To investigate the link between epigenetic changes and the development or prevention of atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on epigenetics and atherogenesis.
- Analysis of studies examining DNA methylation and histone modification in vascular cells.
- Correlation of epigenetic alterations with known atherogenic risk factors.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic tags in endothelial, smooth muscle, and immune cells are differentially affected by atherogenic stimuli.
- Expression of histone-modifying enzymes and DNA methylation are directly linked to the presence of risk factors.
- These epigenetic changes are associated with the atherosclerotic process.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic mechanisms play a significant role in atherogenesis.
- Understanding the epigenetic impact of risk factors offers potential targets for atherosclerosis prevention.
- Further research into epigenetic modifications could lead to novel therapeutic strategies.
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