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Updated: Sep 9, 2025

Quantitative Analysis of Cellular Composition in Advanced Atherosclerotic Lesions of Smooth Muscle Cell Lineage-Tracing Mice
Published on: February 20, 2019
Recent progress in anti-atherosclerosis strategies and prospective therapeutic targets
Zhongmin Wang1, Xiao He1, Huayang Bai1
1Chongqing Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China.
Abstract:
Atherosclerosis, a prevalent cardiovascular condition, results from the accumulation of lipids and other substances within the artery wall following intimal damage. This process leads to the development of atherosclerotic plaques, causing arterial stenosis or complete occlusion. Although current treatment strategies of atherosclerosis have obvious advantages, they are accompanied by side effects. These treatment strategies do not offer a cure but rather aim to impede disease progression. Consequently, managing atherosclerosis remains a formidable challenge, necessitating innovative approaches in light of advancing biomedical technology. This review systematically presents the progress in treating atherosclerosis, encompassing small molecule drugs, macromolecular drugs, and nanomedicine. It emphasizes the utilization of protein target inhibitors or agonists and natural compounds in small molecules, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors in macromolecules, and the synergistic effects of nano-therapies with other treatments. The study uncovers the potential and challenges associated with recent treatment strategies in atherosclerosis, while also shedding light on innovative design concepts.
Insights
This review explores advanced atherosclerosis treatments, including small molecules, macromolecules like PCSK9 inhibitors, and nanomedicine. It highlights innovative strategies to manage this challenging cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Pharmacology
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis involves lipid accumulation and plaque formation, leading to arterial stenosis.
- Current treatments manage progression but do not cure, posing ongoing challenges.
- Biomedical advancements necessitate novel therapeutic approaches for atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review recent advancements in atherosclerosis treatment.
- To cover small molecule drugs, macromolecular therapies, and nanomedicine.
- To discuss the potential and challenges of innovative atherosclerosis therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of small molecule drugs (protein target inhibitors/agonists, natural compounds).
- Review of macromolecular drugs, focusing on proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors.
- Analysis of nanomedicine applications and synergistic therapeutic effects.
Main Results:
- Small molecules utilize protein target modulation and natural compounds.
- Macromolecular strategies include advanced PCSK9 inhibitors.
- Nanomedicine offers synergistic effects and innovative treatment designs.
Conclusions:
- Recent strategies show promise in managing atherosclerosis.
- Challenges remain in translating novel therapies into clinical practice.
- Innovative design concepts are crucial for future atherosclerosis treatment development.
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