The role of heat shock proteins in atherosclerosis

The paradoxical role of IL-17 in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease mediated by innate and adaptive immune responses. In recent years, CD4(+) T cells (Th1, Th2, Treg, and Th17) have been increasingly studied for their role in atherosclerosis pathophysiology, atheroma stability, plaque rupture, and life-threatening acute coronary syndrome. IL-17, a marker cytokine of Th17 cells, has been reported to be involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and asthma. However, its role in atherosclerosis has been poorly characterized. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the role of IL-17 in the development of atherosclerosis and human coronary artery diseases.

Vaccination to modulate atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the artery wall. Adaptive immunity plays a key role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Recently, modulation of the immune response against atherosclerotic plaque antigen(s) has attracted attention as a potentially preventive and therapeutic approach. Here, we review a series of studies on immunization with various antigens targeting treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis-related antigens include oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), apolipoprotein B-100 (ApoB-100) and heat shock protein (HSP) 60/65. Accumulating evidence supports the idea that immunization with these antigenic proteins or peptides may reduce atherosclerosis. In this review, we discuss the current status of immunization studies and possible associated mechanisms of atheroprotection.

Targeting B cells in atherosclerosis: closing the gap from bench to bedside

Atherosclerotic plaque formation is strongly influenced by different arms of the immune system, including B lymphocytes. B cells are divided into 2 main families: the B1 and the B2 cells. B1 cells are atheroprotective mainly via the production of natural IgM antibodies that bind oxidized low-density lipoprotein and apoptotic cells. B2 cells, which include follicular and marginal zone B cells, are suggested to be proatherogenic. Antibody-mediated depletion of B cells has become a valuable treatment option for certain autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis that are also characterized by the development of premature atherosclerosis. Thus, B cells represent a novel interesting target for therapeutic modulation of the atherosclerotic disease process. Here, we discuss the effect of different of B-cell subsets in experimental atherosclerosis, their mechanism of action as well as potential ways to exploit these findings for the treatment of human disease.