Carotid arterial atherosclerotic plaque (null)

Carotid arterial atherosclerotic plaque is a pathologic lesion formed by the accumulation of lipids, inflammatory cells (especially macrophages), smooth muscle cells, and extracellular matrix components within the intima of the carotid artery. Its development involves chronic inflammatory processes, lipid deposition, cell death, neovascularization, calcification, and matrix remodeling, leading to narrowing of the artery or rupture that can cause stroke or transient ischemic attack. While not a molecular target per se, the plaque as a structure and its constituent cells, matrix proteins, and surface markers (such as VCAM-1, ICAM-1, collagen, etc.) serve as the focus for diagnostic imaging, targeted drug delivery, and local intervention in cardiovascular medicine[1][2][4][5].

Other names

Carotid plaqueAtherosclerotic plaque of carotid arteryCarotid artery plaque

Reduction of lipid accumulation (e.g., statins lower LDL); Anti-inflammatory activity (colchicine, IL-10, pioglitazone); Inhibition of cell adhesion molecules (VCAM-1, ICAM-1); Promotion of macrophage efferocytosis and plaque stability; Inhibition of thrombus formation; ECM remodeling inhibition