The Effect of Main Heat Shock Proteins on Atherosclerosis

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a multifaceted disease characterized by complex pathogenesis involving diverse mechanisms. In recent years, the autoimmune nature of atherosclerosis has gained significant attention, emphasizing the indispensable role of the immune system in its initiation and progression. Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) are vital for cellular functionality, facilitating cellular adaptation to environmental changes and survival under adverse conditions. Notably, various HSP families play diverse roles in the advancement of cardiovascular disorders. While the exact contribution of HSPs to atherosclerosis remains a subject of debate, emerging evidence suggests that HSPs can function as self-antigens, eliciting both cellular and antibody-mediated immune responses. Conversely, HSPs also possess immunoregulatory properties, making them potential targets for immunomodulation of atherosclerosis by the adaptive or innate immune system. This comprehensive review focuses on the specific roles of extensively investigated chaperones, including 60, 70, 90 and Hsp27, in the intricate development of atherosclerosis. We discuss their implications in various stages of atherosclerotic lesion formation, from endothelial dysfunction to plaque stability, highlighting their unique contributions and potential as therapeutic targets. The novelty of this review lies in its comprehensive appraisal of the multifaceted involvement of distinct HSPs in atherosclerosis, emphasizing their potential as promising avenues for future research and the development of novel therapeutic strategies.