Chemokines: established and novel targets

yte tem ly identified as small their currently cover vast areas such as angioge development and cell homeostasis (Keeley et al, 2011; Raman et al, 2011) and their role in the pathogenesis of many idespread chronic ation of lipid-rich example at sites of irregular blood flow, which leads to an (LDL; Simionescu, 2009). Within the vessel wall, crystallization Navab et al, 2004), and uncontrolled phagocytosis of modified agate inflammation. This causes endothelial cells to express adhesion molecules such as P-selectin or vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 promoting continuous leukocyte recruitment and influx, blown atherosclerotic plaques. Although in clinical practice the complications of atherosclerosis are controlled by pharmaco-leukocyte trafficking, many chemokines are involved in review, a current state-of-the-art of the diverse roles of Review Chemokines: old and new targets in atherosclerosis l ch yte th been subject of intense investigation. Concordantly, the chemokine system has been explored in search for therapeutic targets to prevent or treat inflammatory disorders, such as atherosclerosis. Targeting the chemokine system offers various entry points for a causative treatment of this widespread and chronic illness. Although this approach has encountered some setbacks, several innovative compounds are currently in an advanced stage of development. In this review, the current standing of this dynamic field is highlighted and the potential advantages and drawbacks of particular strategies are discussed.versity, Maastricht, The Netherlands (3) Munich Heart Alliance, Munich, Germanyof cholesterol and the (oxidative) modification of LDL result in cell-activating pro-inflammatory species (Duewell et al, 2010; chemokines and their receptors in atherosclerosis is provided and the prospects of chemokine inhibition as therapeutic option are discussed. Chemokine structure and mechanisms of actio