Clinical utility of biomarkers in premature atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Biomarker Discovery
• Pathogenesis Research

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a complex condition underlying coronary artery disease, a leading global cause of death.
• The pandemic nature of atherosclerosis necessitates improved diagnostic tools, particularly for early detection.
• Current diagnostic approaches include classical biomarkers (e.g., c-reactive protein) and novel promising markers (e.g., myeloperoxidase).

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for ideal biomarkers in atherosclerosis diagnosis.
• To review existing and emerging biomarkers for atherosclerosis.
• To explore the potential of combining biomarkers with imaging for enhanced diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of atherosclerosis biomarkers.
• Discussion of classical and novel circulating biomarkers.
• Exploration of integrated diagnostic strategies combining biomarkers and imaging.

Main Results:

• Identified a wide range of classical and novel biomarkers for atherosclerosis.
• Emphasized the diagnostic potential of biomarkers like lipoprotein-associated phospholipase and myeloperoxidase.
• Highlighted the clinical attractiveness of integrating biomarker data with imaging techniques.

Conclusions:

• Ideal biomarkers are essential for early and accurate clinical diagnosis of atherosclerosis.
• Combining circulating biomarkers with imaging methods offers a promising avenue for improved diagnosis and understanding of atherosclerosis.
• Further research into integrated diagnostic approaches is warranted to combat coronary artery disease effectively.