Role of cell adhesion molecules and immune-cell migration in the initiation, onset and development of atherosclerosis

Chi, Z. and Melendez, A. J. (2008) Role of cell adhesion molecules and immune-cell migration in the initiation, onset and development of atherosclerosis. Cell Adhesion and Migration, 1(4), pp. 171-175. (doi: 10.4161/cam.1.4.5321)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.4161/cam.1.4.5321

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is currently the leading factor of death in developed countries. It is now recognized as a chronic immune-inflammatory disease, whose initial stages involve the interaction of leukocytes with the endothelial monolayer. The initial stage of atherosclerosis requires the interplay of various cell adhesion molecules and immune cells to trigger leukocyte and lymphocyte migration from the circulating blood into the arterial intima. Studies have unveiled the role of inflammatory mediators in the initiation, onset and progression of the disease. During the last few years we have gained a greater understanding of the mechanism that modulates monocyte, macrophage and T cell infiltration, the role these cells play in the atherosclerotic lesion, in the formation of the fibrous plaque formation with the consequent narrowing of the arteries and the mechanisms that lead to plaque rupture and the formation of thrombi and emboli. This review talks about the leukocyte recruitment in early atherosclerosis, the formation of the plaque, and the mechanisms that lead to thrombosis in advanced atherosclerosis. Finally, we discuss the potential for novel therapies to treat this disease.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Melendez Romero, Dr Alirio
Authors: Chi, Z., and Melendez, A. J.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
Journal Name:Cell Adhesion and Migration
Publisher:Landes Bioscience
ISSN:1933-6918
ISSN (Online):1933-6926
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Project CodeAward NoProject NamePrincipal InvestigatorFunder's NameFunder RefLead Dept
462311Therapeutic potential of Sphingosine Kinase blockage in allergic anaphylaxis.Alirio Melendez RomeroMedical Research Council (MRC)G0700794Institute of Infection Immunity and Inflammation