The role of metabolic disorders in the development of atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Metabolic Disease Research
• Pathology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading global cause of mortality.
• The disease process involves endothelial activation, lipid accumulation, fibrous plaque formation, and calcification, leading to vasoconstriction and inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted stages of atherosclerosis development, from initial endothelial dysfunction to plaque rupture.
• To examine the role of metabolic dysregulation, including lipid, glucose, and amino acid metabolism, in atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
• To present therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic pathways for managing atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the pathological stages of atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of metabolic disruptions in lipid, glucose, and amino acid pathways.
• Evaluation of therapeutic targets within metabolic pathways, including enzymes and transport proteins.

Main Results:

• Endothelial dysfunction initiates a cascade leading to lipid accumulation, plaque formation, and inflammation.
• Disruptions in lipid, glucose, and amino acid metabolism are integral to atherosclerosis development.
• Modulating specific enzymes and transport proteins involved in lipid metabolism shows therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of atherosclerosis pathogenesis requires detailed consideration of metabolic disruptions.
• Targeting metabolic pathways, particularly lipid metabolism, offers promising therapeutic strategies to prevent disease progression and manage patient symptoms.