Models to Study Atherosclerosis: A Mechanistic Insight

Authors: Singh, Vishal; Tiwari, Rajiv L.; Dikshit, Madhu; Barthwal, Manoj K.

Source: Current Vascular Pharmacology, Volume 7, Number 1, January 2009 , pp. 75-109(35)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

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Abstract:

The recent failure of candidate drugs like cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) and acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) inhibitors calls for a revised approach for screening anti-atherosclerotic drugs and development of new models of atherosclerosis. For this it is important to understand the mechanism of the disease in a particular model. Models simultaneously showing hyperlipidemia, inflammation and associated complications of diabetes and hypertension will serve the purpose better as they mimic the actual clinical condition. Besides this, analyzing candidate molecules in vivo, in vitro and at various levels of atherosclerosis progression is important. Models based on various cells and process involved in atherosclerosis should be used for screening candidate molecules. The challenge lies in bridging the gap between genetically friendly small animal and human-like bigger animal models. Sequencing of the mouse and human genome, development of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) database and in silico quantitative trait loci (QTL) linkage analysis may enhance the understanding of atherosclerosis and help develop new therapeutic targets.

Keywords: Atherosclerosis; mechanism; animal; cell; model; target; assay; complication

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/157016109787354097

Publication date: 2009-01-01

More about this publication?

Vascular disease is the commonest cause of death in Westernized countries and its incidence is on the increase in developing countries. It follows that considerable research is directed at establishing effective treatment for acute vascular events. Long-term treatment has also received considerable attention (e.g. for symptomatic relief). Furthermore, effective prevention, whether primary or secondary, is backed by the findings of several landmark trials.

Vascular disease is a complex field with primary care physicians and nurse practitioners as well as several specialties involved. The latter include cardiology, vascular and cardio thoracic surgery, general medicine, radiology, clinical pharmacology and neurology (stroke units). Current Vascular Pharmacology will publish reviews to update all those concerned with the treatment of vascular disease. For example, reviews commenting on recently published trials or new drugs will be included. In addition to clinically relevant topics we will consider 'research-based' reviews dealing with future developments and potential drug targets. Therefore, another function of Current Vascular Pharmacology is to bridge the gap between clinical practice and ongoing research.

Debates will also be encouraged in the correspondence section of this journal.

Models to Study Atherosclerosis: A Mechanistic Insight

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