Monocytes in the development and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques

Abstract

This review describes the role of monocytes in the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. Invasion of monocytes
into the vascular wall and its further transformation is regulated by many factors, some of which are
considered as a potential target of drug therapy in patients with atherosclerosis. In this paper, described the
role of chemokines, integrins, selectins and such cells as T and B lymphocytes, dendritic cells in the process of
atherosclerosis. We present the mechanisms by which cellular homeostasis is supported by an atherosclerotic
plaque. It is demonstrated that different subclasses of monocytes play a different role in the formation of
atherosclerotic lesions.