The Role of Macrophages in Atherosclerosis: Pathophysiologic Mechanisms and Treatment Considerations

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Immunology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Atherosclerotic diseases remain a primary cause of global morbidity and mortality.
• Macrophages play a critical role in the atherosclerotic cascade, though their precise functions require further elucidation.
• Understanding macrophage subtypes and their distinct contributions to disease progression or regression is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the multifaceted roles of macrophages in atherosclerosis.
• To highlight potential therapeutic strategies targeting macrophage polarization and autophagy.
• To review emerging approaches involving macrophage receptors and membrane-coated carriers for atherosclerosis treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on macrophage biology in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of studies investigating M2 polarization and autophagy in atheroprotection.
• Examination of experimental data on macrophage receptors as drug targets.
• Evaluation of research on macrophage-membrane-coated carriers.

Main Results:

• Distinct functions of tissue-resident and monocyte-derived macrophages in atherosclerosis identified.
• M2 polarization and macrophage autophagy demonstrated as atheroprotective mechanisms.
• Macrophage receptors show potential as viable drug targets.
• Macrophage-membrane-coated carriers exhibit promising therapeutic results.

Conclusions:

• Targeting macrophage M2 polarization and autophagy presents a promising therapeutic strategy for atherosclerotic diseases.
• Macrophage receptors and membrane-coated carriers represent innovative avenues for future drug development in cardiovascular medicine.