Publication
Title
Intraplaque neovascularization as a novel therapeutic target in advanced atherosclerosis
Author
Abstract
Introduction: Atherosclerosis is a lipid-driven inflammatory process with a tremendously high mortality due to acute cardiac events. There is an emerging need for new therapies to stabilize atherosclerotic lesions. Growing evidence suggests that intraplaque (IP) neovascularisation and IP hemorrhages are important contributors to plaque instability. Areas covered: Neovascularization is a complex process that involves different growth factors and inflammatory mediators of which their individual significance in atherosclerosis remains poorly understood. This review discusses different aspects of IP neovascularization in atherosclerosis including the potential treatment opportunities to stabilize advanced plaques. Furthermore, we highlight the development of accurate and feasible in vivo imaging modalities for IP neovascularization to prevent acute events. Expert opinion: Although lack of a valuable animal model of IP neovascularization impeded the investigation of a causal and straightforward link between neovascularization and atherosclerosis, recent evidence shows that vein grafts in ApoE*3 Leiden mice as well as plaques in ApoE−/- Fbn1C1039G+/- mice are useful models for intraplaque neovessel research. Even though interference with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signalling has been widely investigated, new therapeutic opportunities have emerged. Cell metabolism, in particular glycolysis and fatty acid oxidation, appears to perform a crucial role in the development of IP neovessels and thereby serves as a promising target.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Expert opinion on therapeutic targets. - London
Publication
Abingdon : Taylor & francis ltd , 2016
ISSN
1472-8222
DOI
10.1080/14728222.2016.1186650
Volume/pages
20 :10 (2016) , p. 1247-1257
ISI
000384332100010
Pubmed ID
27148888
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Project info
Characterization and validation of ApoE-/- Abcc6-/- mice as an animal model for rupture of atherosclerotic plaques.
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 30.08.2016
Last edited 09.10.2023
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