Interleukin 17, the double-edged sword in atherosclerosis

Aysan Moeinafshar1, Sepideh Razi2, Nima Rezaei3

  • 1School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Cancer Immunology Project (CIP), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.

Immunobiology
|April 22, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading global cause of death. This review explores the role of interleukin-17 (IL-17) in atherosclerosis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Inflammation Research

Background:

  • Cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis, are the leading cause of mortality worldwide.
  • Atherosclerosis is recognized as an inflammatory condition where immune cells and signaling molecules play a crucial role in its development.
  • Interleukin-17 (IL-17), a recently identified signaling molecule, is implicated in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the immunological underpinnings of atherosclerosis.
  • To emphasize the specific role of IL-17 in the context of atherosclerosis.
  • To briefly explain the impact of IL-17 on atherosclerotic disorders.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on immunological aspects of atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of studies investigating the function of IL-17 in cardiovascular disease.
  • Synthesis of current understanding regarding IL-17's pro- and anti-atherogenic effects.

Main Results:

  • IL-17 exhibits a complex, potentially dual role in atherosclerosis, acting as both a pro-atherogenic and anti-atherogenic factor.
  • Evidence suggests IL-17 is a significant mediator in the inflammatory processes underlying atherosclerosis.
  • The dual nature of IL-17 necessitates careful consideration for therapeutic strategies.

Conclusions:

  • IL-17 is a key immunological player in atherosclerosis.
  • Understanding IL-17's multifaceted role is crucial for developing targeted treatments.
  • IL-17 represents a promising, yet complex, target for managing atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.

Related Concept Videos

T Cell Types and Functions01:24

T Cell Types and Functions

When T cells with CD4 markers are activated, they give rise to two types of effector cells: helper T cells and regulatory T cells. Meanwhile, T cells with CD8 markers differentiate into effector cytotoxic T cells. The differentiation of CD4 T cells into helper T cell subsets, such as Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells, is dependent on the antigen type, antigen-presenting cell, and regulatory cytokines.
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
1.4K
Inflammation01:38

Inflammation

Overview
55.6K
Atherosclerosis I: Introduction01:30

Atherosclerosis I: Introduction

Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...
129
Atherosclerosis III: Management01:26

Atherosclerosis III: Management

Management of atherosclerosis involves an integrated strategy encompassing pharmacological treatment, surgical interventions, lifestyle changes, and nutrition therapy to address the multifactorial nature of the disease.Pharmacological TherapyA cornerstone of atherosclerosis management is the use of pharmacological agents. Statins, such as atorvastatin, are pivotal in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that catalyzes an initial step in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduction in...
52
Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests01:27

Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests

Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder that leads to the thickening and narrowing of arterial walls due to plaque buildup. This condition can cause various symptoms depending on the arteries affected:Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This condition affects the coronary arteries and may lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath (dyspnea), heart attacks, and other heart disease symptoms.Cerebrovascular Disease: This affects blood flow to the brain, causing transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)...
58
Inflammatory Response01:28

Inflammatory Response

An inflammatory response is a localized, nonspecific immune reaction that occurs when a tissue is injured. It is characterized by redness, swelling, heat, and pain, which are commonly called the cardinal signs and symptoms of inflammation. Inflammation can sometimes result in a loss of function.
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
9.1K