Update on selective treatments targeting neutrophilic inflammation in atherogenesis and atherothrombosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Immunology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a primary cause of cardiovascular disease, with current treatments inadequately addressing residual risks.
• Existing therapies focus on lipid reduction and thrombosis prevention, but fail to eliminate recurrent ischemic events.
• Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in atherosclerosis progression and residual risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the emerging role of neutrophils in atherogenesis.
• To discuss neutrophils as a potential therapeutic target for atherosclerosis.
• To explore treatments targeting neutrophil-related inflammation and plaque vulnerability.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of current scientific literature.
• Analysis of evidence implicating neutrophils in atherosclerosis at various stages.
• Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting neutrophil functions.

Main Results:

• Growing evidence supports a causal role for neutrophils in atherosclerosis.
• Neutrophils contribute to atherosclerotic plaque development and instability.
• Neutrophil-mediated inflammation is a significant driver of cardiovascular events.

Conclusions:

• Neutrophils are a promising therapeutic target for reducing cardiovascular risk.
• Targeting neutrophil inflammation may mitigate atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability.
• Novel treatments focusing on neutrophils could offer new perspectives in managing atherosclerosis.