Animal models of atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Immunology
• Animal Models in Research

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory condition underlying most cardiovascular diseases.
• Both resident vessel wall cells and infiltrating immune cells are key players in atherogenesis.
• Plasma lipoproteins, genetic factors, and blood flow hemodynamics significantly influence the atherosclerotic process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the utility and limitations of various animal models in studying atherosclerosis.
• To highlight the extensive use and advantages of murine models in atherosclerosis research.
• To discuss the future potential of genetically modified mouse models for dissecting atherogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on animal models for atherosclerosis research.
• Comparative analysis of large animal models (pigs, rabbits, nonhuman primates) and murine models.
• Discussion of genetic manipulation techniques in murine models for studying specific biological processes.

Main Results:

• No single animal model perfectly replicates human atherosclerosis, each possessing unique advantages and limitations.
• Murine models are extensively utilized due to ease of genetic manipulation and shorter development timelines for atherosclerotic lesions.
• Studies using murine models have provided significant insights into the biological processes and cellular interactions involved in atherogenesis.

Conclusions:

• Murine models, despite not being identical to humans, are invaluable for investigating the biological underpinnings of atherosclerosis.
• The development of sophisticated murine models allowing tissue-specific and temporal control of gene or cell function will be crucial for future research.
• Advanced murine models will facilitate a deeper understanding of factors influencing different stages of atherosclerotic lesion development.