Precision nanomedicine in atherosclerosis therapy: how far are we from reality?

Abstract

Atherosclerosis, characterized by build-up of lipids and chronic inflammation of the arterial wall, is the primary cause of cardiovascular disease and is a leading cause of death worldwide. Currently available therapies are inadequate and warrant the demand for improved technologies for more effective treatment. Although primarily the domain of antitumor therapy, recent advances have shown the considerable potential of nanomedicine to advance atherosclerosis treatment. This Review details the arsenal of nanocarriers and molecules available for selective targeting in atherosclerosis, and emphasize the challenges in atherosclerosis treatment.