Zhu Jian-Jian, Wang Xian
Institute of Cardiovascular Science, Peking University, Beijing 100083.
Sheng Li Ke Xue Jin Zhan. 2002 Oct;33(4):327-31.
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease. There are many immune cells filled in atherosclerotic lesions, particularly in unstable plaques. The understanding on the recruitment, differentiation and activation of immune cells in atherosclerosis have been expanded in recent years. Epidemiological surveys show many associated viral and bacterial infections. Preliminary studies have identified several autoantigens and raised the "autoimmune hypothesis". Based on this novel viewpoint, the immunomodulation and immunization have been taken as the new strategies for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. This will markedly improve our research level and identify new therapeutic targets in atherosclerosis.
动脉粥样硬化是一种炎症性疾病。在动脉粥样硬化病变中，尤其是不稳定斑块中，存在许多免疫细胞。近年来，人们对动脉粥样硬化中免疫细胞的募集、分化和激活的认识不断拓展。流行病学调查显示有许多相关的病毒和细菌感染。初步研究已鉴定出几种自身抗原并提出了“自身免疫假说”。基于这一新观点，免疫调节和免疫接种已被视为预防和治疗动脉粥样硬化的新策略。这将显著提高我们在动脉粥样硬化方面的研究水平并确定新的治疗靶点。
