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Published on: February 20, 2019
Translational atherosclerosis research: From experimental models to coronary artery disease in humans
1Department of Cardiology, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 410, D-69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
Abstract:
Atherosclerosis is the leading cause of death worldwide. Research on the pathophysiological mechanisms of atherogenesis has made tremendous progress over the past two decades. However, despite great advances there is still a lack of therapies that reduce adverse cardiovascular events to an acceptable degree. This review addresses successes, but also questions, challenges, and chances regarding the translation of basic science results into clinical practice, i.e. the capability to apply the results of basic and/or clinical research in order to design therapies suitable to improve patient outcome. Specifically, it discusses problems in translating findings from the most broadly used murine models of atherosclerosis into clinically feasible therapies and strategies potentially improving the results of clinical trials. Most likely, the key to success will be a multimodal approach employing novel imaging methods as well as large scale screening tools-summarized as "omics" approach. Using individually tailored therapies, plaque stabilization and regression could prevent adverse cardiovascular events thereby improving outcome of a large number of patients.
Insights
Translating atherosclerosis research into effective therapies remains challenging. A multimodal "omics" approach may enable personalized treatments to stabilize plaques and prevent cardiovascular events.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Translational Medicine
- Atherosclerosis Pathophysiology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a primary global cause of mortality.
- Significant progress in understanding atherogenesis contrasts with a deficit in therapies reducing cardiovascular events.
- Translating basic science discoveries into clinical practice for improved patient outcomes faces hurdles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review successes, challenges, and opportunities in translating atherosclerosis research into clinical practice.
- To identify strategies for improving the translation of findings from preclinical models to human therapies.
- To explore the potential of novel approaches for enhancing clinical trial outcomes and patient care.
Main Methods:
- Review of current research on atherogenesis and therapeutic translation.
- Analysis of limitations in applying findings from murine models to human atherosclerosis.
- Discussion of emerging strategies, including advanced imaging and "omics" approaches.
Main Results:
- Despite advances in understanding atherosclerosis, effective clinical therapies are lacking.
- Translating findings from animal models to human applications presents significant challenges.
- Novel multimodal strategies, including "omics" and advanced imaging, show promise for improving therapeutic development.
Conclusions:
- A multimodal approach integrating "omics" and advanced imaging is crucial for successful therapeutic translation.
- Personalized therapies targeting plaque stabilization and regression can prevent adverse cardiovascular events.
- Improving the translation of basic science is essential for enhancing patient outcomes in atherosclerosis.
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