Apoptosis - Basic concepts and implications in coronary artery disease

Apoptosis is an active form of cell death that is intricately regulated and distinct from necrosis. Data suggest that apoptosis may play a role in the pathophysiology of coronary atherosclerotic disease. Anatomic evidence of apoptosis has been observed in coronary atherosclerosis, restenosis, and tr ansplant arteriopathy, accompanied by an increase in biochemical and geneti c markers of apoptosis. Vasoactive substances such as nitric oxide and angi otensin IT also regulate vascular smooth muscle cell apoptosis; vasodilatin g factors may induce apoptosis, whereas vasoconstricting factors may inhibi t apoptosis. The aim of this article is to review key points regarding the detection of apoptosis, its regulation, and its possible role in the pathog enesis of coronary artery disease.