Year: 2021
Type: review
Abstract: Nanotechnology could improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and contribute to the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to further reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Macrophages have key roles in atherosclerosis progression and, therefore, macrophage-associated pathological processes are important targets for both diagnostic imaging and novel therapies for atherosclerosis. In this Review, we highlight efforts in the past two decades to develop imaging techniques and to therapeutically manipulate macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques with the use of rationally designed nanoparticles. We review the latest progress in nanoparticle-based imaging modalities that can specifically target macrophages. Using novel molecular imaging technology, these modalities enable the identification of advanced atherosclerotic plaques and the assessment of the therapeutic efficacy of medical interventions. Additionally, we provide novel perspectives on how macrophage-targeting nanoparticles can deliver a broad range of therapeutic payloads to atherosclerotic lesions. These nanoparticles can suppress pro-atherogenic macrophage processes, leading to improved resolution of inflammation and stabilization of plaques. Finally, we propose future opportunities for novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies and provide solutions to challenges in this area for the purpose of accelerating the clinical translation of nanomedicine for the treatment of atherosclerotic vascular disease. In this Review, Tao and colleagues discuss the latest advances in nanoparticle-based imaging and therapeutic approaches targeting macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques, highlight opportunities for novel macrophage-targeting nanomedicines for atherosclerosis diagnosis and treatment, and provide solutions to challenges in this area to accelerate clinical translation.
Source: Nature Reviews Cardiology
Language: English
Subfield: Immunology
Field: Immunology and Microbiology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Awards: G1278793335, G1790241457, G2179797293, Long-Acting RNAi Therapy for Atherosclerosis and Insulin Resistance, G2592861035, G2781057761, G330031841, Molecular Regulation of Atherosclerosis, G419418261, Enhancing Inflammation Resolution in Atherosclerosis via Targeted Nanoparticle-Mediated Delivery of Biologics, G6307788311, Molecular Mechanisms Governing Vascular Cell Function and Phenotype in Health and Disease, G6900940596, "The Role of Signaling Adaptor Protein Epsin in Atherosclerosis", Mechanisms of Atherogenesis in Insulin Resistance, G780364943, G8632086378, G9000009089, G9000171788
OpenAlex ID: W3214068706