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Pathophysiological role of neutrophils in acute myocardial infarction

F Carbone1, A Nencioni, F Mach

  • 1Fabrizio Montecucco, Cardiology Division, Department of Medicine, Geneva University Hospital, Foundation for Medical Researches, 64 Avenue Roseraie, 1211 Geneva, Switzerland, Tel.: +41 223827238, Fax: +41 223827245,

Thrombosis and Haemostasis
|June 7, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Neutrophils play a key role in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) pathogenesis, causing tissue damage and adverse cardiac remodeling. Targeting neutrophils offers a promising therapeutic strategy for improving outcomes in acute coronary syndromes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Immunology
  • Pathophysiology

Background:

  • Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) involves systemic, intraplaque, and myocardial inflammatory processes.
  • Neutrophils are increasingly recognized as critical immune cells in acute coronary syndromes (ACS).
  • These cells contribute to myocardial damage and adverse cardiac remodeling post-infarction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of AMI.
  • To discuss pharmacological strategies targeting neutrophil function in ACS.
  • To highlight potential therapeutic interventions for reducing neutrophil-mediated damage and improving post-ischaemic outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • This is a narrative review.
  • Literature search on neutrophil involvement in AMI and ACS.
  • Analysis of preclinical and clinical studies on neutrophil-targeted therapies.

Main Results:

  • Neutrophils infiltrate coronary plaques and infarcted myocardium.
  • They release matrix-degrading enzymes and reactive oxygen species, causing tissue damage.
  • Neutrophils are implicated in post-infarction cardiac remodeling and neointima formation.

Conclusions:

  • Neutrophils are central players in AMI pathogenesis and adverse outcomes.
  • Pharmacological interventions targeting neutrophil recruitment or function show promise.
  • Further research is warranted to translate preclinical findings into clinical practice for ACS treatment.

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