Modelling of atherosclerosis in genetically modified animals

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Immunology
• Pathology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease driven by lipids, causing arterial plaque formation and significant cardiovascular disease (CVD) morbidity and mortality.
• Animal models are essential for investigating atherosclerosis etiology, pathogenesis, complications, and for testing therapies and imaging techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of available murine, rabbit, and porcine genetic models for atherosclerosis research.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on animal models of atherosclerosis.
• Discussion of genetic manipulation and diet-induced models.
• Comparative analysis of murine, rabbit, and porcine models.

Main Results:

• A variety of animal models exist, induced by atherogenic diets or genetic modifications.
• Specific genetic models in mice, rabbits, and pigs offer distinct advantages for studying atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

• Genetic animal models provide valuable platforms for understanding atherosclerosis and evaluating potential treatments.
• Selection of appropriate models is critical for successful atherosclerosis research and therapeutic development.