B cells and atherosclerosis: A HIV perspective

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cardiovascular Science
• Virology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a major cause of global cardiovascular disease (CVD), driven by inflammation and lipid metabolism.
• B cells are implicated in atherosclerosis pathogenesis, but their role, particularly in HIV infection, is not fully understood.
• HIV infection is associated with chronic immune activation, potentially impacting B cell function and CVD risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse functions of B cells in atherosclerosis.
• To specifically examine the influence of HIV on B cell roles in atherosclerosis.
• To explore the proatherogenic and antiatherogenic properties of B cells in the context of HIV.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on B cell functions in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of B cell roles including natural antibody production, antigen presentation, and cytokine/chemokine production.
• Examination of how HIV-associated immune dysregulation affects B cells and CVD risk.

Main Results:

• B cells contribute to atherosclerotic plaque development through natural antibodies targeting modified lipoproteins and cellular debris.
• B cells modulate local and systemic immune responses via antigen presentation and cytokine production.
• HIV may exacerbate CVD risk by altering B cell functions within the atherosclerotic environment.

Conclusions:

• B cells possess both proatherogenic and antiatherogenic properties that influence atherosclerotic plaque development.
• HIV significantly impacts B cell-mediated immune responses, potentially increasing CVD risk in infected individuals.
• Further research into B cell functions in HIV-associated atherosclerosis may yield novel therapeutic targets for CVD prevention.