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Accelerated Atherosclerosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Role of Proinflammatory Cytokines and Therapeutic Approaches

  • Basic and Applied Science (M Frieri, Section Editor)
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Abstract

In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, the role of inflammatory mediators is relevant to the pathogenesis of accelerated atherosclerosis. CD40 ligand is increased on circulating lymphocytes, correlates with double-stranded DNA, and has an important role in predicting risk of cardiovascular disease. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a tightly regulated angiogenic cytokine in the kidney, and plasma levels have been associated with disease activity. It has been correlated with lupus nephritis, associated with higher mean carotid intima media thickness, and can be a novel cardiovascular risk factor in premature coronary atherosclerosis. VEGF has been demonstrated in cultured human aortic endothelial cells in the presence of simvastatin and in kidney biopsies in lupus nephritis. SLE patients have been shown to manifest disturbances in gene expression involved in lipid transport and atheroma promotion. This paper provides evidence of the immune system in accelerated atherosclerosis in SLE, the role of selected proinflammatory cytokines, and therapeutic approaches.

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Disclosure

Dr. Frieri has received grant support from the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology and has received financial support for travel for the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology; the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology; and the American Federation of Medical Research.

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  1. Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy Immunology, Nassau University Medical Center, 2201 Hempstead Turnpike, East Meadow, NY, 11554, USA

    Marianne Frieri

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  1. Marianne Frieri
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Correspondence to Marianne Frieri.

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Frieri, M. Accelerated Atherosclerosis in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Role of Proinflammatory Cytokines and Therapeutic Approaches. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 12, 25–32 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-011-0236-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-011-0236-1

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