Publication
Title
Autophagy in atherosclerosis : a potential drug target for plaque stabilization
Author
Abstract
Evidence is accumulating that autophagy occurs in advanced atherosclerotic plaques. Although there is an almost relentless discovery of molecules that are involved in autophagy, studies of selective autophagy induction or inhibition using knockout mice are just now beginning to reveal its biological significance. Most likely, autophagy safeguards plaque cells against cellular distress, in particular oxidative injury, by degrading the damaged intracellular material. In this way, autophagy is protective and contributes to cellular recovery in an unfavorable environment. Pharmacological approaches have recently been developed to stabilize vulnerable, rupture-prone lesions through induction of autophagy. This approach has proven to be successful in short-term studies. However, how autophagy induction affects processes such as inflammation remains to be elucidated and is currently under investigation. This review highlights the possibilities for exploiting autophagy as a drug target for plaque stabilization.
Language
English
Source (journal)
Arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, and vascular biology / American Heart Association. - Dallas, Tex., 1995, currens
Publication
Dallas, Tex. : 2011
ISSN
1079-5642
1524-4636 [online]
DOI
10.1161/ATVBAHA.111.224899
Volume/pages
31 :12 (2011) , p. 2787-2791
ISI
000297245700012
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (publisher's version - intranet only)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Project info
Selective clearance of macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques via drug-induced cell death as a strategy for plaque stabilisation.
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 22.11.2011
Last edited 28.01.2024
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