The changing landscape of atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death globally, with shifting demographics and risk factor profiles.
• Traditional risk factors like LDL cholesterol and smoking are decreasing, while new ones emerge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review emerging evidence on atherosclerosis.
• To discuss implications for understanding and managing atherosclerotic diseases.

Main Methods:

• Review of current scientific literature and evidence.
• Analysis of evolving concepts in atherosclerosis research.

Main Results:

• Atherosclerosis affects younger, more diverse populations worldwide.
• Focus shifts to triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, non-traditional drivers (sleep, microbiome, pollution), and clonal hematopoiesis.
• Inflammatory pathways and leukocytes play a key role in disease progression.

Conclusions:

• Advances in understanding atherosclerosis pathogenesis open new therapeutic avenues.
• Improved prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic diseases are anticipated.