Atherosclerosis is a major human killer and non-resolving inflammation is a prime suspect. Issue 13 (5th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Fredman, Gabrielle; MacNamara, Katherine C
• Is Part Of: Cardiovascular research. Volume 117:Issue 13(2021)
• Page Start: 2563
• Page End: 2574
• Publication Date: 2021-10-05
• Subjects: Atherosclerosis -- Ageing -- Inflammation -- Immunology -- hematopoiesis; Cardiovascular system -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Cardiovascular system -- Periodicals; 616.1
• DOI: 10.1093/cvr/cvab309
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0008-6363

Abstract

Abstract: The resolution of inflammation (or inflammation-resolution) is an active and highly coordinated process. Inflammation-resolution is governed by several endogenous factors, and specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are one such class of molecules that have robust biological function. Non-resolving inflammation is associated with a variety of human diseases, including atherosclerosis. Moreover, non-resolving inflammation is a hallmark of ageing, an inevitable process associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Uncovering mechanisms as to why inflammation-resolution is impaired in ageing and in disease and identifying useful biomarkers for non-resolving inflammation are unmet needs. Recent work has pointed to a critical role for balanced ratios of SPMs and pro-inflammatory lipids (i.e. leucotrienes and/or specific prostaglandins) as a key determinant of timely inflammation resolution. This review will focus on the accumulating findings that support the role of non-resolving inflammation and imbalanced pro-resolving and pro-inflammatory mediators in atherosclerosis. We aim to provide insight as to why these imbalances occur, the importance of ageing in disease progression, and how haematopoietic function impacts inflammation-resolution and atherosclerosis. We highlight open questions regarding therapeutic strategies and mechanisms of disease to provide a framework for future studies that aim to tackle this important human disease.