Affiliation:
1. Department of Cell Biology, Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiovascular Center, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT 06030, USA
2. Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
Abstract
As the leading cause of mortality worldwide, cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents a variety of heart diseases and vascular disorders, including atherosclerosis, aneurysm, ischemic injury in the heart and brain, arrythmias, and heart failure. Macrophages, a diverse population of immune cells that can promote or suppress inflammation, have been increasingly recognized as a key regulator in various processes in both healthy and disease states. In healthy conditions, these cells promote the proper clearance of cellular debris, dead and dying cells, and provide a strong innate immune barrier to foreign pathogens. However, macrophages can play a detrimental role in the progression of disease as well, particularly those inflammatory in nature. This review will focus on the current knowledge regarding the role of macrophages in cardiovascular diseases.
Funder
National Institutes of Health
NIH