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Immune system and atherosclerosis: Hostile or friendly relationship
Iman Razeghian-Jahromi1, Ali Karimi Akhormeh1, Mahboobeh Razmkhah2
1Cardiovascular Research Center, 571605Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology
|April 12, 2022
Summary
Immune cells play complex, dual roles in atherosclerosis development. Understanding their specific contributions is crucial for combating cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular immunology
- Immunopathology of atherosclerosis
Background:
- Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a significant global health issue.
- Atherosclerotic plaque formation is a chronic inflammatory process influenced by immune system components.
- The immune system's role in atherosclerosis is multifaceted, involving various immune cells and mediators with both protective and detrimental effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis.
- To elucidate the specific contributions of diverse immune cells in the development of atherosclerotic lesions.
- To highlight the complex interactions among immune components in determining disease outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on immune cells in atherosclerosis.
- Analysis of the sequential involvement of immune cells, starting with monocytes.
- Examination of cytokine signaling and pathway alterations driven by immune cell interactions.
Main Results:
- Monocytes are the earliest immune cells in atherosclerotic lesions.
- Mast cells and T lymphocytes are involved as plaque progresses.
- Immune cells release cytokines, recruiting more cells and modulating inflammatory pathways.
Conclusions:
- Immune cell involvement is central to atherosclerosis initiation and progression.
- The interplay of various immune cells and mediators dictates the severity of cardiovascular disease.
- A precise understanding of immune component roles is essential for developing effective therapeutic strategies against atherosclerosis.
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