Extracellular vesicle signalling in atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Cell Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of global mortality, driven by arterial wall inflammation and lipid deposition.
• Plaque rupture in atherosclerosis can lead to myocardial infarction and stroke.
• Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial for intercellular communication, transporting various biomolecules.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on extracellular vesicle (EV) signalling in atherosclerosis.
• To explore the potential of EV signatures as biomarkers for atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on EVs and atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of EV involvement in cellular processes during disease progression.

Main Results:

• EVs are present in atherosclerotic plaques and influence key processes like inflammation, immune response, and vascular remodeling.
• EVs mediate cell-cell communication, contributing to atherosclerosis development and progression.

Conclusions:

• EV signalling is integral to atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
• EV signatures represent a promising avenue for developing novel diagnostic biomarkers for atherosclerosis.