Taurine in Atherosclerosis: A Multitarget Perspective

Taurine, a conditionally essential amino acid with unique sulfur-containing groups, has many fundamental physiologic processes, including osmoregulation and bile acid conjugation. Atherosclerosis (AS) can lead to numerous severe vascular adverse events, such as stroke, coronary artery disease, and myocardial infarction, posing a significant threat to human health. Taurine plays a role in multiple targets associated with the development of AS. It regulates lipid metabolism, reduces platelet activation and aggregation, and suppresses uncontrolled proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells. Additionally, it has antioxidant effects and promotes vascular health through vasodilation and endothelial repair, making it a promising cardiovascular protective agent. Furthermore, its interactions with the gut microbiome offer new insights into its potential for managing pathological conditions that contribute to AS. Current evidence supports that taurine serves as a dietary supplement to enhance both intestinal and cardiovascular health, thereby reducing the risk of AS.