Sonodynamic Therapy Suppresses Neovascularization in Atherosclerotic Plaques via Macrophage Apoptosis-Induced Endothelial Cell Apoptosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Medical Technology
• Oncology (related to photodynamic therapy principles)

Background:

• Atherosclerosis plaque progression involves pathological angiogenesis, increasing risk of plaque rupture, thrombosis, cerebral, and myocardial infarction.
• Current treatments for mitigating plaque rupture are limited, necessitating development of optimized therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of sinoporphyrin sodium (DVDMS)-mediated sonodynamic therapy in reducing abnormal angiogenesis and plaque rupture in atherosclerosis.
• To evaluate the therapeutic potential of DVDMS-sonodynamic therapy in preclinical models and a clinical trial for atherosclerosis patients.

Main Methods:

• Utilized rabbit and mouse atherosclerotic models for preclinical evaluation.
• Administered sinoporphyrin sodium (DVDMS) followed by localized pulsed ultrasound exposure to plaques.
• Conducted a small-scale clinical trial on patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

• DVDMS-mediated sonodynamic therapy significantly reduced abnormal angiogenesis and plaque rupture in animal models.
• A notable reduction in arterial inflammation and angiogenesis was observed in patients following the therapy.
• The therapeutic benefits were comparable to those achieved with 3 months of intensive statin treatment.

Conclusions:

• Sinoporphyrin sodium (DVDMS)-mediated sonodynamic therapy is a promising approach to combat atherosclerosis progression and reduce the risk of plaque rupture.
• This therapy demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects, offering a potential alternative or adjunct to existing treatments for cardiovascular disease.