Targeting Immune Senescence in Atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Immunology
• Aging Research

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a primary cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), characterized by chronic inflammation and intimal thickening.
• Immune cells, including monocytes, macrophages, and lymphocytes, play dual roles in either protecting against or exacerbating atherosclerosis.
• Immuno-senescence, linked to aging and other factors, contributes to atherosclerosis progression and associated pathologies like coronary artery disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of immune cells and immuno-senescence in the development and progression of atherosclerosis.
• To discuss the mechanisms by which senescent cells influence atherosclerotic plaque growth and related conditions.
• To highlight senolytics as a potential therapeutic approach for atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Review of immune cell involvement in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of immuno-senescence mechanisms and their impact on plaque development.
• Examination of senescent cell secretome, including cytokines, chemokines, MMPs, and TLRs.
• Discussion of senolytic therapies targeting senescent cells.

Main Results:

• Immune cell responses can be athero-protective or atherogenic.
• Senescent cells secrete factors (SASP) that modulate atherosclerosis plaque growth and pathologies.
• Senescent cells exhibit cell cycle arrest, morphological, and phenotypic changes.

Conclusions:

• Immuno-senescence is a significant factor in atherosclerosis.
• Senolytics, by clearing senescent cells, represent a promising therapeutic avenue for atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.