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Immune checkpoint proteins: exploring their therapeutic potential to regulate atherosclerosis
1Division of Biopharmaceutics, LACDR, Leiden University, Leiden, The Netherlands.
British Journal of Pharmacology
|April 4, 2017
Summary
Immune checkpoint proteins regulate immune cells in atherosclerosis. Modulating these proteins, like OX40-OX40L and CTLA-4, offers potential immunotherapy for cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cardiovascular Science
Background:
- Immune checkpoint proteins (costimulatory and inhibitory) regulate immune responses.
- These proteins are crucial in atherosclerosis, influencing immune and non-immune cell activation and proliferation within lesions.
- Dysregulated immune cells produce pro-atherogenic cytokines, promoting lesion growth and destabilization, leading to acute coronary syndromes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of immune checkpoint proteins in atherosclerosis.
- To discuss the therapeutic potential of targeting these proteins for cardiovascular disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on immune checkpoint proteins (e.g., OX40-OX40L, CTLA-4, TIM proteins) in atherosclerosis.
- Analysis of their regulatory functions on immune and non-immune cells.
- Evaluation of their potential as immunotherapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- Immune checkpoint proteins are present and functional in atherosclerotic lesions and circulation.
- These proteins modulate T-cells, macrophages, and platelets, impacting cytokine production and lesion development.
- Specific proteins like OX40-OX40L, CTLA-4, and TIM proteins are highlighted for their roles.
Conclusions:
- Immune checkpoint proteins are key regulators in atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
- Targeting these proteins, particularly with monoclonal antibodies, presents a promising immunotherapeutic strategy for cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment.
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