Anti-inflammatory therapy in atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide.
• Emerging evidence highlights inflammation's critical role in atherosclerotic CVD initiation, progression, and thrombotic complications.
• Despite advancements, a significant residual risk for CVD events persists even with optimal treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current status of anti-inflammatory drug therapies for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) in humans.
• To evaluate the potential of targeting inflammation as a strategy to reduce residual CVD risk.
• To summarize research on anti-inflammatory agents investigated for atherosclerosis treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical trials and studies on anti-inflammatory drug therapy for atherosclerotic CVD.
• Analysis of the role of inflammation, apoB-lipoproteins, and traditional risk factors in CVD.
• Focus on human studies evaluating anti-inflammatory interventions.

Main Results:

• Inflammation is increasingly recognized as a crucial factor in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) development and outcomes.
• Several anti-inflammatory drugs have been investigated for their efficacy in managing atherosclerosis.
• Targeting inflammation presents a promising avenue for mitigating residual CVD risk.

Conclusions:

• Anti-inflammatory drug therapy is an evolving area for managing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD).
• Addressing the inflammatory component of atherosclerosis is essential for reducing residual morbidity and mortality.
• Further research and clinical trials are needed to optimize anti-inflammatory strategies for CVD prevention.