Atherosclerosis: Known and unknown

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Pathology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a major cause of death globally, stemming from genetic and environmental factors.
• Known risk factors include hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, diabetes, and smoking, contributing to vascular chronic inflammation.
• While statins are effective, many patients require novel treatments due to incomplete response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathology and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
• To discuss current understanding and identify unanswered questions in atherosclerosis research.
• To highlight the need for new animal models and therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on atherosclerosis pathology and pathogenesis.
• Analysis of molecular mechanisms investigated through genetically modified animal models.
• Evaluation of the efficacy of current treatments like statins.

Main Results:

• Atherosclerosis develops over decades, involving chronic inflammation and interactions between risk factors and arterial cells.
• Genetically modified animals have advanced understanding of molecular mechanisms.
• Statins represent the most effective current treatment for prevention and management.

Conclusions:

• Despite progress, the complete pathogenesis of atherosclerosis remains incompletely understood.
• There is a critical need for innovative therapeutic approaches for statin-resistant patients.
• Development of new animal models is essential for further research into atherosclerosis.