Th17/Treg Imbalance and Atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting large arteries.
• Inflammation and autoimmunity are critical factors in atherosclerosis development.
• Immune cells, cytokines, and transcription factors play significant roles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the roles of T helper 17 cells and regulatory T cells in atherosclerosis.
• To examine the impact of their associated cytokines on disease progression and plaque stability.
• To discuss their applications in atherosclerosis prognosis and therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of cellular and molecular biology studies.
• Analysis of research on immune cell involvement in atherosclerosis.
• Synthesis of data on cytokine functions and cellular interactions.

Main Results:

• T helper 17 cells and regulatory T cells are crucial in atherosclerosis development.
• These cells and their cytokines significantly influence vulnerable plaque rupture.
• The balance between these T cell subsets is critical for disease outcome.

Conclusions:

• T helper 17 and regulatory T cells, along with their cytokines, are important therapeutic targets.
• Understanding their balance offers insights into atherosclerosis prognosis.
• Further research into these immune components can advance treatment strategies.