Accelerated atherosclerosis, immune response and autoimmune rheumatic diseases

Autoimmun Rev. 2006 Mar;5(3):195-201. doi: 10.1016/j.autrev.2005.06.005. Epub 2005 Jul 26.

Abstract

Atherosclerosis (AT) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease, characterized by lipoproteins metabolism alteration leading to formation of pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidative lipids and immune response. Identification of macrophages, T cells, pro-inflammatory cytokines, adhesion cell molecules in atherosclerotic lesions support the hypothesis that innate and adaptive immune response participate in the atherogenesis mechanism. Multiple factors such as inflammatory, infectious and immune system, among others participate in this process. The principal antigens identified in atherogenesis are: oxidized LDL (oxLDL), HSPs and beta2GPI. During LDL oxidation, multiple neoantigens are formed (anti-EO). These antibodies seem to be protective. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) have accelerated AT. The association of both diseases with AT suggests a common pathogenic mechanism. SLE and atherosclerosis are immune-complex mediated diseases. Participation of complement activation, and CD40, CD40 ligand interactions have been demonstrated in AT and SLE. AT may be the initial presentation or the consequence of primary antiphospholipid syndrome. The similarities between AT, SLE, and APS and the identification of protective antibodies offer opportunities for new immunomodulation treatment strategies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arteriosclerosis / immunology*
  • Arteriosclerosis / metabolism*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / immunology*
  • Autoimmune Diseases / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / immunology
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / metabolism
  • Rheumatic Diseases / immunology*
  • Rheumatic Diseases / metabolism*