Atherosclerosis and Inflammation: Are the Rules of the Game Changing with Biological Therapies?

Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive vascular disease characterized not only by lipid accumulation but also by sustained inflammation. Recent evidence has highlighted the critical role of immune pathways and pro-inflammatory cytokines in plaque formation, progression, and destabilization.

This narrative review aims to summarize current knowledge regarding the role of inflammation in atherosclerosis and evaluate the therapeutic potential of biologic agents targeting specific inflammatory pathways.

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using keywords such as "atherosclerosis", "inflammation", "biologic agents", and "cytokine inhibitors". Recent clinical trials and relevant experimental studies were analyzed and synthesized narratively.

Biologic agents targeting IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17A, and CD20+ B cells have shown promising results in reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular outcomes in high-risk patients. Agents such as canakinumab, anakinra, tocilizumab, rituximab, secukinumab, and alirocumab demonstrate varying degrees of efficacy depending on the targeted pathway. However, concerns remain regarding immunosuppression, lipid alterations, cost, and long-term safety.

Biologic agents offer a novel, mechanism-based therapeutic approach in managing atherosclerosis. While current data support their benefit in select patient groups, further research is needed to clarify long-term outcomes, safety, and real-world applicability. Personalized treatment strategies based on inflammatory profiles may enhance clinical benefit.