Collagens in the progression and complications of atherosclerosis.
Collagens constitute a major portion of the extracellular matrix in the atherosclerotic plaque, where they contribute to the strength and integrity of the fibrous cap, and also modulate cellular responses via specific receptors and signaling pathways. This review focuses on the diverse roles that collagens play in atherosclerosis; regulating the infiltration and differentiation of smooth muscle cells and macrophages; controlling matrix remodeling through feedback signaling to proteinases; and influencing the development of atherosclerotic complications such as plaque rupture, aneurysm formation and calcification. Expanding our understanding of the pathways involved in cell-matrix interactions will provide new therapeutic targets and strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.
Adiguzel
Eser
E
Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Ahmad
Pamela J
PJ
Franco
Christopher
C
Bendeck
Michelle P
MP
D000783:Aneurysm / Q000378:metabolism; D000818:Animals; D050197:Atherosclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000378:metabolism; D002465:Cell Movement; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D003094:Collagen / Q000378:metabolism*; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000378:metabolism; D007962:Leukocytes / Q000378:metabolism; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases / Q000378:metabolism; D032389:Myocytes, Smooth Muscle / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology; D038981:Receptors, Collagen / Q000378:metabolism; D012421:Rupture; D015398:Signal Transduction
D038981:Receptors, Collagen; D003094:Collagen; D020782:Matrix Metalloproteinases