Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026

Investigating Aortic Valve Calcification via Isolation and Culture of T Lymphocytes using Feeder Cells from Irradiated Buffy Coat
Published on: February 4, 2021
The pathophysiological basis of pharmacological interventions in CAVD
P W Riem Vis1, J-W van Rijswijk, S A J Chamuleau
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University Medical Center Utrecht, PO BOX 85500, E03.511, 3508GA, Utrecht, the Netherlands, p.w.riemvis@umcutrecht.nl.
Abstract:
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) results in aortic valve stenosis and is one of the most common cardiac diseases in both Western and developing countries. The burden of this disease is expected to increase rapidly in the future, but there are still no relevant pharmacological therapies available and aortic valve replacement remains the sole definite therapy. This review presents an overview of the most common causes of CAVD, followed by current debates and trials related to the onset and progression of this disease. Several differences and similarities between the different causes of CAVD are presented. Additionally, stages of CAVD are compared with stages in atherosclerosis. Finally, future directions for research on CAVD will be discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacodynamics: Overview and Principles
Most drugs' effects result from their interactions with drug receptors or targets within the body. These interactions trigger specific responses at the cellular or systemic level. Drug receptors can be found on the surfaces of cells or within...
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Heart Failure Drugs: Inhibitors of Renin-Angiotensin System
Antianginal Drugs: Calcium Channel Blockers and Ranolazine
CCBs, a diverse class that includes dihydropyridines (nifedipine) and diphenylalkylamines (verapamil and diltiazem), exert their effect by blocking calcium channels in cardiac and smooth muscle cells. This...
Coronary Artery Disease V: Interprofessional Care
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure