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CD8+ T cells in atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease

Ishita Tandon1, Mohamed Yosri2, Hadeer Soliman1

  • 1Immunology Center of Georgia (IMMCG), Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.

Nature Reviews. Cardiology
|May 5, 2026
PubMed

Insights

CD8+ T cells are key immune cells in atherosclerosis, but their exact role in disease progression remains unclear. Understanding these cells may offer new therapies for cardiovascular diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Pathology

Background:

  • Cardiovascular diseases affect over 600 million people globally.
  • Atherosclerosis is a primary cause of myocardial infarction and stroke.
  • Immune system involvement is critical in atherosclerosis development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on CD8+ T cells in atherosclerosis.
  • To elucidate the dual role of CD8+ T cells in disease progression.
  • To identify therapeutic targets within CD8+ T cell populations.

Main Methods:

  • Comprehensive literature review of CD8+ T cell functions in atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of phenotypic, functional, and transcriptional data.
  • Examination of CD8+ T cell involvement in comorbidities.

Main Results:

  • CD8+ T cells are highly expanded in human atherosclerotic plaques.
  • Their precise role (pro-atherogenic or atheroprotective) varies with disease stage.
  • CD8+ T cells influence atherosclerosis progression and comorbidities.

Conclusions:

  • Further research is needed to fully understand CD8+ T cell functions in atherosclerosis.
  • Targeting CD8+ T cells presents a potential therapeutic strategy.
  • Interventions could mitigate cardiovascular events in atherosclerosis patients.

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