TREATING ATHEROSCLEROSIS BY REMOVING SENESCENT FOAM CELL MACROPHAGES FROM ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUES

摘要

Foamy macrophages with senescence markers accumulate in the subendothelial space at the onset of atherosclerosis where they drive pathology by increasing expression of key atherogenic and inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. In advanced lesions, senescent cells promote features of plaque instability, including elastic fiber degradation and fibrous cap thinning, by heightening metalloprotease production. This invention provides methods and materials for treating arthritis by removing senescent cells in or around atherosclerotic plaques, thereby stabilizing the plaques, inhibiting rupture of the plaques and pathological sequelae that manifest as coronary artery disease.