Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2-6-2025
Publication Title
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Volume
26
Issue
3
First page number:
1
Last page number:
17
Abstract
Atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the accumulation of lipids and a culprit behind cardiovascular events, has long been studied. However, in recent years, there has been an increase in interest in its initiation, with researchers shifting focus from traditional pathways involving the vascular infiltration of oxidized lipids and towards the novel presence of chronic inflammatory pathways. The accumulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, in combination with the activation of transcription factors, creates a positive feedback loop that drives the creation and progression of atherosclerosis. From the upregulation of the nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome and the Notch and Wnt pathways to the increased expression of VEGF-A and the downregulation of connexins Cx32, Cx37, and Cx40, these processes contribute further to endothelial dysfunction and plaque formation. Herein, we aim to provide insight into the molecular pathways and mechanisms implicated in the initiation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques, and to review the risk factors associated with their development.
Keywords
antherosclerosis; cardiovascular health; inflammation
Disciplines
Cardiovascular Diseases | Cardiovascular System
File Format
File Size
1629 KB
Language
English
Rights
IN COPYRIGHT. For more information about this rights statement, please visit http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Repository Citation
Tasouli-Drakou, V.,
Ogurek, I.,
Shaikh, T.,
Ringor, M.,
DiCaro, M. V.,
Lei, K.
(2025).
Atherosclerosis: A Comprehensive Review of Molecular Factors and Mechanisms.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(3),
1-17.
Available at:
http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijms26031364