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Opportunities and Challenges in Understanding Atherosclerosis by Human Biospecimen Studies
Maria Elishaev1, Chani J Hodonsky2, Saikat Kumar B Ghosh3
1Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Center for Heart Lung Innovation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine
|July 25, 2022
Summary
New biotechnologies enable deep molecular profiling of human atherosclerotic lesions. This review explores using these valuable human tissue samples in translational research for cardiovascular disease, despite challenges.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Bioinformatics
- Cardiovascular Research
Background:
- High-throughput technologies and bioinformatics are transforming molecular-level tissue analysis.
- Human atherosclerotic lesions from autopsies and surgeries offer unique insights.
- Research links lesion molecules to morphology, genetic risk, and cardiovascular events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the utilization of human atherosclerotic lesions in translational research.
- To discuss opportunities and challenges in studying these lesions with next-generation sequencing.
Main Methods:
- Leveraging large cardiovascular biobanks and tissue registries.
- Applying advanced bioinformatic analyses to tissue specimens.
- Utilizing next-generation sequencing for deep molecular profiling.
Main Results:
- New technologies facilitate detailed molecular characterization of atherosclerotic lesions.
- Human lesion studies connect molecular profiles with clinical outcomes and genetic predispositions.
- Translational research strategies are being developed to maximize the value of human samples.
Conclusions:
- Human atherosclerotic lesions are critical for understanding disease mechanisms.
- Next-generation sequencing presents both opportunities and hurdles for lesion analysis.
- Integrating biobanks and registries enhances the translational potential of atherosclerosis research.
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