Immunomodulation for treatment and prevention of atherosclerosis

Autoimmun Rev. 2002 Feb;1(1-2):21-7. doi: 10.1016/s1568-9972(01)00003-9.

Abstract

In recent years, it has become clear that the immune system has a major role in atherosclerosis development and progression. More specifically, atherosclerosis fulfills all four criteria to define a condition as being an autoimmune in nature. This association also suggests that modification of the immune response in atherosclerosis could affect this process. In this review, we summarize different aspects of immunomodulation in atherosclerosis. These include immunosuppression, active immunization, induction of tolerance, administration of intravenous immunoglobulin, gene therapy, cytokine network manipulation and statins.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Arteriosclerosis / immunology
  • Arteriosclerosis / prevention & control
  • Arteriosclerosis / therapy*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / therapy
  • Autoimmunity
  • Cytokines / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Genetic Therapy
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Immunosuppression Therapy
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Models, Immunological
  • Vaccination

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Immunosuppressive Agents