IMMUNOLOGICAL MECHANISMS IN ATHEROSCLEROSIS

Immunological mechanisms seem to be potent modulators of the atheroscl erotic process. The presence of substantial numbers of T-lymphocytes i n the lesion and local and circulating autoantibodies to plaque compon ents suggests that a specific immune response is operating. Focal expr ession of adhesion molecules and local secretion of chemoattractants c ould mediate the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the lesion. Loca l cytokine and growth factor networks may operate later, controlling c ell migration and proliferation. Although it is still important to rea lize the complexity of these mechanisms, the ongoing characterization of the molecular mechanisms in atherogenesis may lead to new strategie s for intervention with the disease process.