Richismita Hazra, Amity University Kolkata
Heart disease is the leading cause of death all across the globe. It can undoubtedly be called as ‘World’s No.1 Killer’. One of the major and common causes of this killer disease is atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis refers to the piling up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on our artery walls. This assemblage is termed plaque and can cause our arteries to narrow thereby triggering blood clots. It can potentially occur in every artery of our body and cause disability or death.
According to the researchers at the University Of Virginia School Of Medicine, strengthening the fibrous caps overlying atherosclerotic plaque could be a promising way to ward off heart attacks and strokes. These fibrous caps play the role of protective shields that act like patches on a tire. It prevents the plaque from rupturing which ultimately would prevent a heart attack or a stroke. Redefining the understanding of how the protective caps form and how they attain their stability has been revealed by the scientists. This may be of immense help to doctors who could use these insights to prevent plaques from rupturing.
It was assumed in the past that most of the protective fibrous cap cells originated from smooth muscles. However, advanced research highlights the dynamic nature of this structure. Recent research suggests that up to 40% of the fibrous cells in the cap (in lab mice) are not of smooth muscle cell origin. In human lesions, approximately 20% – 25% of the fibrous cap cells do not originate from smooth muscle cells. Other sources include endothelial cells and immune cells.
This study unveils a potentially novel approach towards shrinking the probability of plaque rupture. The research team urges scientists and pharmaceutical companies to re-examine their proposition in preventing the killer disease.
Also read:Genetic mutations could now be easily understood!!!
Source: Newman, A.A.C., et al. (2021) Multiple cell types contribute to the atherosclerotic lesion fibrous cap by PDGFRβ and bioenergetic mechanisms. Nature Metabolism. doi.org/10.1038/s42255-020-00338-8.
One thought on “Atherosclerosis: Combating the Killer!”