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Cytomegalovirus and atherosclerosis
J L Melnick1, E Adam, M E DeBakey
1Division of Molecular Virology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030-3498, USA.
Summary
Human cytomegalovirus (CMV) may play a role in atherosclerosis. Research found CMV presence in arterial lesions, suggesting a link between CMV infection and this cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Immunology
Background:
- Avian herpesvirus causes atherosclerosis in chickens.
- Human herpesviruses are being investigated for a role in human atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of human cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the development of human atherosclerosis.
Main Methods:
- Detection of CMV antigens and nucleic acid sequences in arterial lesions.
- Analysis of CMV antibody levels in atherosclerosis patients.
- Observation of atherosclerosis development in CMV-infected, immune-suppressed heart transplant patients.
Main Results:
- CMV antigens and nucleic acid sequences were identified in human atherosclerotic arterial lesions.
- Elevated CMV antibody levels were observed in patients with atherosclerosis, suggesting latent virus activation.
- Atherosclerosis was observed to develop in immune-suppressed heart transplant patients with CMV infection.
Conclusions:
- CMV properties are consistent with a role in multiple stages of the atherogenic process.
- Preventing CMV infection through vaccination could potentially prevent atherosclerosis.