Cell stress proteins in atherothrombosis

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Cell stress proteins (CSPs) are a diverse group of proteins whose levels or locations change under stress, often acting as chaperones.
• The thioredoxin (TRX) system, comprising proteins like TRX and peroxiredoxin (PRDX), is vital for maintaining redox homeostasis.
• CSPs, particularly TRX and PRDX, are implicated in cellular signaling, inflammation, and apoptosis, processes relevant to atherothrombosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the thioredoxin (TRX) system as a key component of cell stress proteins.
• To discuss the multifaceted roles of TRX and peroxiredoxin (PRDX) beyond antioxidant functions.
• To explore the potential of TRX and PRDX as biomarkers for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on cell stress proteins, focusing on the thioredoxin (TRX) system.
• Analysis of the biochemical functions of TRX and peroxiredoxin (PRDX) in redox homeostasis and cellular signaling.
• Examination of studies investigating the presence and secretion of TRX and PRDX in pathological conditions and their association with cardiovascular diseases.

Main Results:

• The thioredoxin (TRX) system, including TRX and peroxiredoxin (PRDX), is central to cellular stress response and redox balance.
• TRX and PRDX exhibit significant roles in cell signaling, immune responses, and apoptosis, contributing to atherothrombosis.
• TRX and PRDX are found in diseased vascular walls and can be secreted into circulation, indicating their potential as CVD biomarkers.

Conclusions:

• The thioredoxin (TRX) system is a critical player in cellular defense mechanisms and various physiological processes.
• Beyond their antioxidant roles, TRX and PRDX are involved in key pathways relevant to cardiovascular health and disease.
• TRX and PRDX show promise as diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic biomarkers for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).