Physiological and pathological role of adipose tissue in atherosclerosis

Abstract

Epidemiological and experimental studies have demonstrated a clear pathophysiological relationship between obesity and atherosclerosis. The formation of an atherosclerotic plaque begins with the endothelium damage. Adipose tissue produces a number of factors that promote the adhesion of circulating immune cells, which initiate damage of the vessel endothelium and contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis. There are two main types of adipose tissue: white adipose tissue and brown adipose tissue. Perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT) is a type of adipose tissue that surrounds blood vessels. According to its characteristics, PVAT resembles both brown and white adipose tissue. It is considered as an active component of the blood vessels walls and involved in vascular homeostasis. The review focuses on adipose tissue (PVAT) and its link with atherosclerosis.