[Beyond the plaque: immunological implications of risk factors in atherosclerosis]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Microbiome Research

Background:

• Atherosclerotic plaque formation is a complex process driven by modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors.
• Immune mechanisms orchestrate inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses in atherosclerosis.
• Atherosclerosis leads to leading causes of global mortality: ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the immunological processes in atheroma plaque initiation and progression.
• To explore the link between traditional risk factors (smoking, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension) and atherosclerosis.
• To investigate microbiota dysbiosis as a potential risk factor.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of immunological processes in atherogenesis.
• Analysis of the relationship between traditional risk factors and immune responses.
• Assessment of microbiota dysbiosis in the context of atherosclerosis.

Main Results:

• Immune mechanisms are central to atherosclerosis development, influenced by traditional risk factors.
• Modifiable risk factors like smoking, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypertension significantly contribute to plaque formation.
• Microbiota dysbiosis emerges as a novel potential contributor to atherosclerosis.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the immune basis of atherosclerosis is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
• Controlling modifiable risk factors remains the most effective strategy for atherosclerosis regression and complication prevention.
• Further research into microbiota's role could reveal new therapeutic avenues.