Molecular Mechanisms of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is the most common cardiovascular disorder in western societies and is rapidly becoming similarly prevalent in the underdeveloped world. Written by notable authorities and providing text rich in illustrative figures, Molecular Mechanisms in Atherosclerosis addresses the fundamental mechanisms underlying atherothrombosis and delineates current views of the molecular and cellular basis of the process. The editor approaches the issue from a mechanistic perspective, and does so in the context of contemporary knowledge of molecular and cellular pathobiology. The book provides an epidemiological overview of atherosclerotic vascular disease, followed by a review of the genetics and genetic epidemiology. It focuses on the four fundamental mechanisms common to all risk factors for atherosclerosis: inflammation, oxidative stress, thrombosis, and endothelial dysfunction and the mechanisms under lying for common risk factors for atherogenesis: dyslipidaemias, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and smoking. The book then discusses the recently proposed risk factors hyperhomocysteinemia and infection and rational molecular therapies to prevent and combat established atherothrombotic disease. Taken together, these chapters offer a broad review of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of atherothrombogenesis. The topics covered and the order of presentation were carefully chosen to clarify the complexity of the disease process. Armed with the information contained in this text, you can confidently explore cutting-edge research with insight and foresight regarding their implications for prevention and treatment.