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Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Pathological and Therapeutic Roles of Pericytes in Atherosclerosis

Siarhei A Dabravolski1, Alexander M Markin2, Elena R Andreeva3

  • 1Department of Biotechnology Engineering, ORT Braude College, Snunit 51, P.O. Box 78, Karmiel 2161002, Israel.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|October 14, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Pericytes are crucial in atherosclerosis development, influencing plaque growth and stability. Targeting pericytes offers a promising therapeutic strategy for reducing cardiovascular disease risk.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Biology
  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Pericytes are mesenchymal stromal cells vital for blood vessel homeostasis.
  • Atherosclerosis (AS) involves complex vascular pathologies.
  • The role of pericytes in AS pathogenesis is increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current data on pericyte involvement in atherosclerosis.
  • To highlight pericytes as potential therapeutic targets for AS.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on pericytes and atherosclerosis.
  • Synthesis of data on pericyte functions in atherosclerotic plaque development.

Main Results:

  • Pericytes contribute to lipid accumulation, inflammation, and plaque vascularization.
  • Reduced pericyte coverage correlates with plaque instability markers like angiogenesis and calcification.
  • Pericyte dysfunction is linked to atherosclerotic plaque progression.

Conclusions:

  • Pericytes are key players in atherosclerosis pathogenesis and development.
  • Modulating pericyte function presents a novel therapeutic avenue for stabilizing atherosclerotic plaques.
  • Pericyte-targeted therapies may offer anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic benefits.

Keywords:
angiogenesisatherosclerosiscardiovascular diseasediabetespericyteshear stress

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