Molecular Mechanism of Atherosclerosis

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research on Priority Areas No. 09281104 was issued from 1997 to 2000. During the period, we organized a research group with scientists who are considered to be most active in the research field. Atherosclerosis is correlated with a variety of vascular disorders such as coronary heart disease. We therefore placed our goal on elucidation of the molecular mechanism of atherosclerosis and exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. To conduct investigation, the members were divided into 3 subgroups, i.e. Group 1, 2, and 3 with different subject of study as follows. We also formed a Central Committee to coordinate and facilitate the research activity of the subgroups.The Study Group 3 studied endothelial dysfunction and blood cells. There has been accumulating evidence that atherosclerosis is initiated by endothelial dysfunction due to a variety of biological insults. We therefore formed this subgroup to explore the key molecules involved in those events. We discovered novel scavenger receptors such as LOX-1 and SRPSOX. Furthermore, we revealed that adipose tissues produce cytokines abundantly. Among those cytokines, adiponectin has been shown to play an important role in atherogenesis and insulin resistance.In conclusion, we have made a successful progress in atherosclerosis research, which will be translated into clinical application in the near future.