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Role of Macrophages and RhoA Pathway in Atherosclerosis

Malgorzata Kloc1,2,3, Ahmed Uosef1,2, Jacek Z Kubiak4,5

  • 1Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|December 31, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Macrophages and the RhoA pathway are key to atherosclerotic plaque development and resolution. Targeting these components offers a promising therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis, promoting repair and reducing inflammation.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Cell Signaling
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Atherosclerotic plaque stability, progression, and development are influenced by macrophage polarization.
  • Macrophage recruitment and phenotype are regulated by the small GTPase RhoA and its effectors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the roles of macrophages and the RhoA pathway in atherosclerosis.
  • To discuss novel therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent findings on macrophages and RhoA in atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of therapeutic approaches targeting macrophage influx and phenotype.

Main Results:

  • Macrophages are crucial in both the formation and resolution phases of atherosclerotic plaques.
  • The RhoA pathway significantly controls macrophage behavior within atherosclerotic lesions.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting macrophages and the RhoA pathway presents a viable therapeutic avenue for anti-atherosclerotic treatments.
  • Inhibiting macrophage influx and inflammatory phenotypes, while promoting repair, is a key therapeutic goal.
Keywords:
RhoAatherosclerosisfoam cellsinflammationmacrophages

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