Humoral and cellular immunity against atherosclerosis: possibility to develop a vaccine

Development of atherosclerosis is influenced by innate and adaptive immune responses. Innate immunity based on detection of pathogen-associated molecular patterns by pattern recognition receptors on macrophages and dendritic cells. Pattern recognition receptors binding a wide range of protein, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids, but those considered most important in atherosclerosis are scavenger receptors and the Toll-like receptors. Recent observation has suggested the possibility that selective suppression of proatherogenic immune responses or selective activation of antiatherogenic immune response may provide new approaches for atherosclerosis prevention and treatment.