Cellular heterogeneity and clonal hematopoiesis of immune system cells in atherosclerosis

Abstract

Recent studies in single cell RNA sequencing have improved understanding of the structure of the immune cell subpopulation in atherosclerosis. With the help of novel technologies, new subpopulations of immune cells involved in atherosclerosis have been identified. In addition, a following relatively common and strong cardiovascular risk factor has emerged: clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential resulting from the accumulation of somatic mutations during life with the appearance of populations of mutant leukocyte clones. Individuals with this condition are at high risk for cardiovascular complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke, regardless of conventional risk factors. This review highlights the latest data on the study of cellular heterogeneity of immune system cells in atherosclerosis, as well as the role of clonal hematopoiesis in its development.