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Targeting inflammation to reduce cardiovascular disease risk: a realistic clinical prospect?
Paul Welsh1, Gianluca Grassia2, Shani Botha3
1Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
Abstract:
Data from basic science experiments is overwhelmingly supportive of the causal role of immune-inflammatory response(s) at the core of atherosclerosis, and therefore, the theoretical potential to manipulate the inflammatory response to prevent cardiovascular events. However, extrapolation to humans requires care and we still lack definitive evidence to show that interfering in immune-inflammatory processes may safely lessen clinical atherosclerosis. In this review, we discuss key therapeutic targets in the treatment of vascular inflammation, placing basic research in a wider clinical perspective, as well as identifying outstanding questions.
Linked Articles:
This article is part of a themed section on Targeting Inflammation to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v174.22/issuetoc and http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bcp.v82.4/issuetoc.
Insights
Basic science suggests immune responses drive atherosclerosis, offering potential targets for cardiovascular disease prevention. However, human trials are needed to confirm if manipulating inflammation safely reduces clinical events.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cardiovascular Science
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is increasingly understood to involve immune-inflammatory processes.
- Targeting inflammation presents a theoretical approach to prevent cardiovascular events.
- This review is part of a themed series on Targeting Inflammation to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key therapeutic targets for vascular inflammation.
- To bridge basic science findings with clinical perspectives on atherosclerosis treatment.
- To identify outstanding questions in the field of immune-targeted cardiovascular therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of basic science experiments and clinical studies.
- Analysis of therapeutic targets for vascular inflammation.
- Discussion of the translation of immune-based therapies from bench to bedside.
Main Results:
- Strong basic science evidence supports the role of immune-inflammatory responses in atherosclerosis.
- Definitive human data demonstrating the safety and efficacy of anti-inflammatory interventions for clinical atherosclerosis is still lacking.
- Several key therapeutic targets in vascular inflammation have been identified.
Conclusions:
- While immune-inflammatory pathways are central to atherosclerosis, clinical translation requires careful consideration.
- Further research is needed to validate the safety and effectiveness of targeting inflammation for cardiovascular event reduction.
- Identifying and validating therapeutic targets remains crucial for advancing treatment strategies.