Increasing evidence for immune-mediated processes and new therapeutic approaches in abdominal aortic aneurysms--a review

Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2006 Nov:1085:331-8. doi: 10.1196/annals.1383.036.

Abstract

Animal models for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), immunogenetical and pathophysiological studies support the importance of immune-mediated processes in the pathogenesis of AAA disease. Neutrophils, natural killer (NK) cells, monocytes/macrophages, and proinflammatory cytokines are involved in the complex and dynamic tissue remodeling of the AAA vessel wall. Our group showed an increased prevalence of circulating interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) producing CD28(-) T cells especially in smaller AAAs, thus supporting the concept of a T cell-mediated pathophysiology of AAAs, especially during the early development of AAAs. Further research should now assess the possible benefit of anti-inflammatory therapeutic approaches in AAA patients, especially with small AAAs.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies / immunology
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / genetics
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / immunology*
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Abdominal / therapy*
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy*
  • Inflammation Mediators / blood

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Biomarkers
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • Inflammation Mediators