Authors: Kinscherf, Ralf; Deigner, Hans-Peter

Source: Vascular Disease Prevention, Volume 5, Number 2, May 2008 , pp. 116-128(13)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

Abstract:

Atherosclerosis is the most common cause of death in the Western population. Apoptosis has now been recognized as a major event in a number of common and threatening vascular diseases, including in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Consistent with an increasing body of evidence from both, animal models and human specimens, modified low-density lipoprotein-induced apoptosis of vessel wall cells contributes to the development and progression of this disease. Because apoptosis is a highly regulated process and represents the predominant mechanism of cell death in atherosclerosis, its investigation is receiving increasing attention to clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms which will help to design novel specific therapeutic strategies to reduce disease progression. However, since the major cell types involved are blood cells like macrophages (MΦ) and lymphocytes, but also endothelial and smooth muscle cells (Fig. 1), the significance of apoptosis and its relevance in atherosclerosis is likely to be associated with the cell type affected. In this context biochemical, immunocytochemical, functional genomics and genetic analyses provide an increasingly detailed picture of the intracellular signaling pathways being involved in each cell type. For example, extrinsic or intrinsic deathsignaling pathways appear to be activated in blood cells or cells in atherosclerotic lesions and to mediate vascular apoptosis during atherogenesis. We aim to provide a timely overview of apoptogenic signaling pathways in different cell types of the vessel wall, to discuss the relevance of apoptosis in the various cell types and links to inflammation, but also to summarize emerging therapeutic pro-/anti-apoptotic options.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/156727008784223945

Publication date: 2008-05-01

More about this publication?

• Vascular Disease Prevention publishes reviews as well as original papers to update all those concerned with this topic at the clinical or scientific level. In addition to clinically relevant topics, we consider reviews and original papers dealing with the more scientific aspects of vascular disease prevention. This includes the evaluation of emerging vascular risk factors, research dealing with the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and the investigation of new treatment options both at the clinical and scientific level (e.g. epidemiology, patient-based studies, experimental models, in vitro experiments or molecular research). Therefore, another function of Vascular Disease Prevention is to bridge the gap between clinical practice and ongoing laboratory-based research.
  
  In particular, we welcome critical reviews and comments on recent trials. This is a topic that requires regular updates because of the large number of trials published every year.
  
  Debates are encouraged in the correspondence section of this journal.
  The editorial structure of Vascular Disease Prevention is set up with the aim of dealing with the submitted material as rapidly as possible. Specialist editors will provide a more expert and rapid assessment unlike a more centralized editorial structure.

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