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Infection and atherosclerosis: TLR-dependent pathways

Bowei Li1, Yuanpeng Xia2, Bo Hu3

  • 1Department of Neurology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430022, China.

Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|February 1, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Chronic infections contribute to atherosclerosis, a progressive vascular disease. Toll-like receptors (TLRs), particularly TLR2 and TLR4, are implicated in this process, offering potential therapeutic targets for atherosclerotic vascular disease (ASVD).

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cardiovascular Disease
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Atherosclerotic vascular disease (ASVD) is a chronic inflammatory condition linked to infections.
  • Traditional risk factors for atherosclerosis include hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking, and obesity.
  • Emerging evidence highlights the role of chronic infections in ASVD development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in infection-related atherosclerosis.
  • To examine the impact of TLRs on ASVD progression following infections like Chlamydia pneumoniae.
  • To discuss current treatment strategies and identify potential therapeutic targets for ASVD.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on TLRs, PRRs, and atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of the involvement of specific pathogens (e.g., C. pneumoniae, P. gingivalis, H. pylori, HIV) in ASVD.
  • Evaluation of the roles of TLR2 and TLR4 in infection-induced atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

  • Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are key components of the innate immune system involved in recognizing pathogens.
  • TLRs, especially TLR2 and TLR4, significantly influence the development of atherosclerosis linked to various chronic infections.
  • Different TLRs play distinct roles during various stages of infection by atherosclerosis-related pathogens.

Conclusions:

  • Chronic infections are significant contributors to the development and progression of atherosclerotic vascular disease.
  • Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are critical mediators in infection-related atherosclerosis, with TLR2 and TLR4 activation being particularly impactful.
  • Targeting TLRs presents a promising new avenue for therapeutic interventions in ASVD.

Keywords:
AtherosclerosisChlamydia pneumoniaeInfectionPorphyromonas gingivalisToll-like receptors

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