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Published on: August 20, 2019
Endothelial Dysfunction in Atherosclerosis: Experimental Models and Therapeutics
Vadym Kopych1,2, Avelino Dos Santos Da Costa1, Kwideok Park1,2
1Center for Biomaterials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), Seoul 02792, Republic of Korea.
Insights
This review explores endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis, detailing its mechanisms and experimental models. It highlights current and emerging therapeutic strategies for this cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Cell Biology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis is a complex cardiovascular disease originating from endothelial dysfunction.
- Endothelial cells (ECs) undergo structural and functional changes due to inflammation, oxidative stress, and disturbed shear stress.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis.
- To provide an overview of experimental models used to study ECs in atherosclerosis.
- To introduce current and emerging therapeutic interventions for atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental models (in vitro and in vivo).
- Analysis of mechanisms underlying endothelial dysfunction.
- Survey of pharmacological, cell/gene, and nanomedicine therapies.
Main Results:
- Endothelial dysfunction is central to atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
- Various experimental models aid in understanding EC roles.
- A range of therapeutic strategies are available and developing.
Conclusions:
- Understanding endothelial dysfunction mechanisms is key to advancing atherosclerosis treatment.
- Experimental models and novel technologies are crucial for therapeutic development.
Abstract:
Atherosclerosis is a cardiovascular disease that involves complex and multifactorial processes that are instigated from endothelial dysfunctions. In this review, we address endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis and the mechanisms, where they are characterized by structural and functional alterations in endothelial cells (ECs), as caused by inflammation, oxidative stress, or disturbed shear stress. In particular interest, we provide a comprehensive overview of the experimental models (in vitro and in vivo) used to investigate endothelial dysfunction, specifically the role of ECs in atherosclerosis. Finally, current therapeutics, for example, pharmacological interventions, cell and gene therapies, and nanomedicine, are introduced, along with emerging technologies for advanced treatment of atherosclerosis. This review will help readers better understand current scientific findings, experimental models, and technologies in an effort to decipher the mechanisms of atherosclerosis and to advance therapeutic interventions.
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