Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease in which plaque is made inside the arteries. These blood vessels are responsible for carrying oxygen-rich blood to the vital organs such as heart and other parts of the body. Gradually, growing and hardening of the plaque results in narrowing arteries, which in turn limits the flow of blood to the organs or tissues (Picture from Ohiohealth). Any artery can be affected by atherosclerosis. This can lead to different diseases such as heart attack or stroke causing serious problems and even death. Lack of physical activity, smoking and an unhealthy diet are among most important causes of atherosclerosis.

Immunology of atherosclerosis

It has now become clear that atherosclerosis is an immune system-mediated inflammatory disorder involving antibodies, components of the complement system, immune cells such as macrophages and lymphocytes infiltrating the walls of the arteries, by which participating in the formation of the plaques. Cytokines that regulate a broad range of inflammatory responses are also involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In addition, chemokines, which are involved in recruitment of leukocytes to the site of inflammation have also been reported to play a role in atherosclerosis. It is believed that the inflammatory reactions are triggered by the damaged artery, caused by the oxidized low-density lipoprotein molecules. These molecules carry cholesterol throughout the body.