Reactive Oxygen Species and Mitochondrial Calcium's Roles in the Development of Atherosclerosis

In the last decade, there has been increasing evidence connecting mitochondrial dysfunction to the onset and advancement of atherosclerosis. Both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the disruption of mitochondrial calcium (Ca²⁺) regulation have garnered significant attention due to their involvement in various stages of atherosclerosis. This abstract discusses the potential therapeutic applications of targeting mitochondrial calcium (Ca²⁺) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), while also providing an overview of their respective roles in atherosclerosis. The abstract underscores the importance of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ homeostasis in cellular physiology, including functions such as energy production, cell death signaling, and maintaining redox balance. Alterations in the mitochondria's Ca²⁺ handling disrupt all these procedures and speed up the development of atherosclerosis. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), generated during mitochondrial respiration, are widely recognized as significant contributors to the development of atherosclerosis. Through modulating the function of calcium ion (Ca²⁺) transport proteins, ROS can impact the regulation of mitochondrial Ca²⁺ handling. These oxidative modifications lead to vascular remodeling and plaque formation by impairing endothelial function, encouraging the recruitment of inflammatory cells, and promoting smooth muscle cell proliferation. Preclinical investigations indicate that interventions aimed at regulating the production and elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS) hold promise for mitigating atherosclerosis. Targeting mitochondrial processes represents a prospective therapeutic strategy for addressing this condition. Further research is necessary to elucidate the intricate molecular mechanisms associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in atherosclerosis and develop effective therapeutic strategies to decelerate disease progression.