Unravelling molecular mechanisms in atherosclerosis using cellular models and omics technologies

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Research
• Atherosclerosis Pathogenesis
• Cellular and Molecular Biology

Background:

• Atherosclerosis, a major cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, involves complex cellular interactions and risk factors.
• Despite lipid-lowering therapies, atherosclerosis remains a significant unmet clinical need.
• Understanding plaque heterogeneity and its role in thrombosis is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in cellular models for atherosclerosis research.
• To summarize the outputs and impact of omics data generated from these models.
• To discuss challenges and future perspectives in translating in vitro findings.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on cellular models of atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of omics data (single and multi-omics) generated from in vitro systems.
• Systems biology approaches to elucidate disease mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Cellular models provide economical and high-throughput platforms for mechanistic insights into atherosclerosis.
• Omics data from these models have elucidated specific cell types, molecules, and signaling pathways involved in disease progression.
• In vitro models offer valuable data for understanding plaque development and rupture.

Conclusions:

• Cellular models are essential tools for dissecting atherosclerosis complexity and generating valuable omics data.
• Translational challenges of in vitro omics data require careful consideration for clinical application.
• Future research should focus on refining models and integrating omics data for improved therapeutic strategies.