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The Role of Cytokines in the Development of Atherosclerosis

A R Fatkhullina1, I O Peshkova, E K Koltsova

  • 1Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA. Ekaterina.Koltsova@fccc.edu.

Biochemistry. Biokhimiia
|December 5, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Cytokines, signaling molecules, play a critical role in atherosclerosis, a major cause of cardiovascular disease. Understanding their pro- and anti-inflammatory effects is key to managing this chronic inflammatory condition.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Science
  • Immunology
  • Inflammation Research

Background:

  • Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death globally, characterized as a chronic inflammatory disease of arteries.
  • Dyslipidemia triggers atherosclerosis, involving innate and adaptive immune responses.
  • Inflammation is central to atherosclerosis pathogenesis at all stages.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the latest findings on the role of cytokines in atherosclerosis development and progression.
  • To highlight the influence of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines on disease pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent research on cytokines and atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of the mechanisms by which cytokines impact immune cell activation in atherosclerosis.
  • Synthesis of current understanding of cytokine-mediated inflammation in arterial disease.

Main Results:

  • Cytokines are soluble factors that activate cells involved in atherosclerosis.
  • Pro-inflammatory cytokines accelerate the progression of atherosclerosis.
  • Anti-inflammatory cytokines have a protective or ameliorating effect on the disease.

Conclusions:

  • Cytokines are crucial mediators in the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
  • Targeting cytokine pathways presents a potential therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular diseases.
  • Further research into cytokine functions can advance understanding and treatment of atherosclerosis.

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