Do we know the role of inflammation and inflammatory cytokines in the stabilization of the atherosclerotic plaques?
We know that the plaques become unstable due to cytokines released by the macrophages in the plaques. In a recent study it was observed that there can be some cytokines released by the cells which can help in stabilization of the plaques. Cytokine interleukin-17 as a signal can stabilize plaques.
"Traditionally, scientists and physicians have viewed atherosclerosis as merely a buildup of cholesterol in the arteries, and the influence of inflammation has not been fully attributed", says Göran K. Hansson, team leader of the Experimental Cardiovascular Research group at the Center for Molecular Medicine, and principal investigator of the study. "We need to explore the inflammatory pathways to find new therapies aside from lowering lipids. We have effective statin therapy, but a substantial risk of heart attacks still remains for treated individuals."
There is need to understand more about the cytokines which can protect or propagate the inflammation in the plaques to prevent cardiovascular events.
We know that the plaques become unstable due to cytokines released by the macrophages in the plaques. In a recent study it was observed that there can be some cytokines released by the cells which can help in stabilization of the plaques. Cytokine interleukin-17 as a signal can stabilize plaques.
"Traditionally, scientists and physicians have viewed atherosclerosis as merely a buildup of cholesterol in the arteries, and the influence of inflammation has not been fully attributed", says Göran K. Hansson, team leader of the Experimental Cardiovascular Research group at the Center for Molecular Medicine, and principal investigator of the study. "We need to explore the inflammatory pathways to find new therapies aside from lowering lipids. We have effective statin therapy, but a substantial risk of heart attacks still remains for treated individuals."
There is need to understand more about the cytokines which can protect or propagate the inflammation in the plaques to prevent cardiovascular events.
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