Immune mechanisms in atherosclerosis and potential for immunomodulatory therapies

A considerable body of pre-clinical and clinical research data support a pivotal role played by immune-inflammatory responses in atherosclerosis formation and development. Recent clinical trial results confirm the feasibility of targeting immune pathways for the therapeutic control of the pathology. In this chapter, we discuss the key immune-inflammatory mechanisms involved in atherosclerosis development and progression and plaque destabilization. We discuss the anti-inflammatory pleiotropic effects of lipid-lowering drugs and potential therapeutic strategies for the direct control of vascular inflammation. Finally, we discuss vaccination approaches in atherosclerosis and critical questions that should be addressed in future investigations