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Macrophages, dendritic cells, and regression of atherosclerosis

Jonathan E Feig1, Jessica L Feig

  • 1Zena and Michael A. Wiener Cardiovascular Institute, Mount Sinai Medical Center NY, USA.

Frontiers in Physiology
|August 31, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Atherosclerosis, a leading cause of death, involves inflammatory interactions between lipoproteins and arterial wall cells. This review focuses on macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) in atherosclerosis development and regression.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Immunology
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis is the primary cause of mortality in Western countries.
  • It arises from interactions between modified lipoproteins and cells within the arterial wall, including macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs).
  • This inflammatory process leads to arterial plaque formation, potentially causing myocardial infarction or stroke.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the roles of macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) in atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
  • To emphasize the involvement of these cells in the regression of atherosclerotic lesions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on cellular and molecular mechanisms.
  • Analysis of the involvement of macrophages and DCs in atherosclerotic plaque development.
  • Examination of cellular contributions to atherosclerosis regression.

Main Results:

  • Macrophages and DCs are key cellular players in the inflammatory cascade of atherosclerosis.
  • These cells influence both the progression and potential regression of atherosclerotic plaques.
  • Understanding their specific roles is crucial for therapeutic strategies.

Conclusions:

  • Macrophages and DCs are central to atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
  • Targeting these cells may offer novel approaches for promoting atherosclerosis regression.
  • Further research into the specific functions of macrophages and DCs in regression is warranted.

Keywords:
CCR7HDLLXRatherosclerosis regressiondendritic cellsmacrophages

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