Role of cardiolipin in regulating and treating atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases

Area of Science:

• Mitochondrial Biology
• Cardiovascular Research
• Lipid Metabolism

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading global cause of death, with atherosclerosis as a primary driver.
• Atherosclerosis pathogenesis involves mitochondrial dysfunction, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial components.
• Cardiolipin (CL), a unique inner mitochondrial membrane lipid, is crucial for mitochondrial structure and function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted roles of cardiolipin (CL) in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
• To elucidate the dual pro- and anti-atherogenic functions of CL and its modifications.
• To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting CL in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on cardiolipin's involvement in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of mechanisms linking CL alterations to oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation.
• Examination of CL's role in mitophagy and mitochondrial quality control.

Main Results:

• Altered CL (oxidative modification, reduced quantity, abnormal localization) contributes to atherosclerosis onset and progression.
• CL and its oxidative modifications promote atherosclerosis via oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation.
• Externalized CL acts as a mitophagy signal, removing dysfunctional mitochondria and protecting against atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

• Cardiolipin exhibits complex, dual roles in atherosclerosis, acting as both a promoter and a protector.
• Understanding the balance of CL's pro- and anti-atherogenic effects is crucial for therapeutic development.
• Further exploration of cardiolipin's broader significance beyond its structural role is warranted for CVD treatment.