The role of Notch pathway in cardiovascular diseases.

The recent increase in human lifespan, coupled with unhealthy diets and lifestyles have led to an unprecedented increase in cardiovascular diseases. Even in the presence of a wide range of therapeutic options with variable efficacy, mortality due to heart failure is still high and there is a need to identify new therapeutic targets. Genetic and in vitro studies have implicated the Notch signalling in the development and maintenance of the cardiovascular system through a direct effect on biological functions of vascular cells (endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells) and cardiomyocytes. Notch signalling is also involved in the modulation of inflammation, which plays a major role in causing and exacerbating cardiovascular diseases. The Notch pathway could represent a new therapeutic target for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.