Nanocarrier-Based Targeting of Cluster of Differentiation 44 for Treating Atherosclerosis: A Review

Abstract

About a third of all deaths worldwide are associated with atherosclerosis. Reduction of the local inflammation at atherosclerotic plaques could serve as an attractive strategy for combating the sequels associated with atherosclerosis. Statins class of drugs exert direct anti-inflammatory activities, however, higher doses are required for statins therapy due to their low bioavailabilities and potential side effects hence rendering them unrealistic. By creating intelligent nanostructures with a variety of functionalization, nanoparticles offer an excellent platform to cure atherosclerosis at the molecular scale. Owing to significant advancements in technological inventions, targeted ligands spontaneously transit the circulation, overcome biological barriers, and reach the target lesion. In recent decades, CD44 has received extensive research attention for several cancer types, where it controls tumor development and invasiveness. Whereas adhesion and migration are its primary activities, CD44 additionally has an impact on macrophage activation and localization, internalization, structural remodeling, proliferative, and apoptosis. As a result, CD44 is a potentially useful target in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Recent research studies suggest that CD44 plays a role in incendiary ailments like atherosclerosis and aneurysm among humans. This review aims to explore nanocarriers based targeted CD44 therapeutic strategies for the treatment of atherosclerosis to provide and stimulate further development and future translation in this area.