Regulation of Atherogenesis by Chemokines and Chemokine Receptors

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory and metabolic disorder affecting large and medium-sized arteries, and the leading cause of mortality worldwide. The pathogenesis of atherosclerosis involves accumulation of lipids and leukocytes in the intima of blood vessel walls creating plaque. How leukocytes accumulate in plaque remains poorly understood, however chemokines acting at specific G protein-coupled receptors appear to be important. Studies using knockout mice suggest that chemokine receptor signaling may either promote or inhibit atherogenesis, depending on the receptor. These proof of concept studies have spurred efforts to develop drugs targeting the chemokine system in atherosclerosis, and several have shown beneficial effects in animal models. This article will review key discoveries in basic and translational research in this area.