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REVIEW ARTICLE

The role of monocytes in atherosclerotic coronary artery disease

, , , &
Pages 394-403 | Received 13 Feb 2010, Accepted 17 May 2010, Published online: 23 Jun 2010
 

Abstract

Inflammation plays a key role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The more we discover about the molecular pathways involved in atherosclerosis, the more we perceive the importance of monocytes in this process. Circulating monocytes are components of innate immunity, and many pro-inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules facilitate their adhesion and migration to the vascular endothelial wall. In addition to the accumulation of lipids and formation of atherogenic ‘foam’ cells, monocytes may promote atherosclerotic plaque growth by production of inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases, and reactive oxidative species. However, the contribution of monocytes to atherogenesis is not only limited to tissue destruction. Monocyte subsets are also involved in intraplaque angiogenesis and tissue reparative processes.

The aim of this overview is to discuss the mechanisms of monocyte activation, the pivotal role and importance of activated monocytes in atherosclerotic coronary artery disease, their implication in the development of acute coronary events, and their potential in cardiovascular reparative processes such angiogenesis.

Acknowledgements

BP and ES are funded by research fellowships from the European Society of Cardiology. We acknowledge the support of Heart Research UK and the Peel Medical Research Trust, and the research and development programme of Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust.

Declaration of interest: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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