Pro-atherogenic cytokines

Pro-atherogenic cytokines are a heterogeneous group of signaling proteins that drive the inflammatory processes underlying atherosclerosis. These molecules, including Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α), are secreted by various cells such as macrophages and endothelial cells in response to lipid accumulation and other vascular stressors (Libby, 2021, PubMed: 33857471). They facilitate the recruitment of leukocytes to the arterial wall, promote the formation of foam cells, and contribute to the thinning of the fibrous cap, which can lead to plaque rupture and myocardial infarction (Ridker, 2017, PubMed: 28844193). Clinical trials like CANTOS have demonstrated that targeting specific pro-atherogenic cytokines, such as IL-1β, can significantly reduce major adverse cardiovascular events (Ridker et al., 2017, NEJM). However, because these cytokines are also essential for host defense, their systemic inhibition carries a risk of increased susceptibility to serious infections (Nidorf et al., 2020, PubMed: 32865380). Current research focuses on identifying specific members of this group that can be safely modulated to provide cardiovascular protection without compromising overall immunity. These cytokines also stimulate the production of downstream inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, which serves as a clinical indicator of vascular risk (StatPearls, 2023).

Other names

Pro-inflammatory cytokinesAtherogenic cytokinesInflammatory mediators of atherosclerosis

Therapeutic intervention involves the use of monoclonal antibodies to neutralize specific cytokines such as IL-1β or IL-6, or to block their receptors, thereby interrupting the inflammatory cascade that leads to plaque progression and rupture (Ridker et al., 2017, NEJM). Other approaches include small molecule inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome to prevent the maturation and release of these cytokines (Libby, 2021, PubMed: 33857471).