Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

Three-Dimensional Imaging of Aortic Tissues in Atherosclerosis
Published on: October 25, 2024
[Atherosclerosis (hypertension)]
1Life Science and Bioethics Research Center, Tokyo Medical and Dental University.
Insights
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease. Biomarkers like high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), microalbuminuria, and cystatin C can help assess its presence and progression.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Inflammation Biology
- Biomarker Discovery
Context:
- Atherosclerosis is a complex inflammatory disease.
- Numerous risk factors contribute to its development and progression.
- Current diagnostic approaches require a multifaceted biomarker strategy.
Purpose:
- To explore the role of inflammatory biomarkers in atherosclerosis.
- To identify key indicators for atherosclerosis presence and progression.
- To emphasize the need for combined biomarker analysis in clinical practice.
Summary:
- High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) shows promise as a biomarker for atherosclerosis.
- Markers for dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, and endothelial/smooth muscle cell injury are linked to atherosclerosis.
- Microalbuminuria and cystatin C levels indicate future atherosclerosis risk, particularly in hypertensive patients.
Impact:
- Highlights hsCRP as a valuable indicator for atherosclerosis.
- Underscores the importance of considering multiple biomarkers for comprehensive risk assessment.
- Guides clinicians in utilizing a panel of biomarkers for improved atherosclerosis diagnosis and management.
Abstract:
Many studies have shown that atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease. Therefore biomarkers reflecting the magnitude of inflammation can be also a good marker for atherosclerosis. Clinical studies have shown that high sensitive C reactive protein (hsCRP) is one of a promising biomarker for presence or progression of atherosclerosis. Markers for dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, and injury of endothelium and smooth muscle cells also have links to atherosclerosis. Regarding hypertension, microalbuminuria and cystatin C levels show the degree of future risk for atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is pathologically so complicated that no single biomarker can be perfect and it is essential for every clinician to use several appropriate biomarkers together to diagnose the disease.
Related Concept Videos
Atherosclerosis I: Introduction
Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests
Hypertension II: Pathophysiology
Atherosclerosis IV: Nursing Management
Atherosclerosis III: Management
Hypertension and Regulation of Blood Pressure