Effects of mitochondrial dysfunction on cellular function: Role in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, an immunoinflammatory disease of medium and large arteries, is associated with lifethreatening clinical events, such as acute coronary syndromes and stroke. Chronic inflammation and impaired lipoprotein metabolism are considered to be among the leading causes of atherosclerosis, while numerous risk factors, including arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity, and aging, can contribute to the development of the disease. In recent years, emerging evidence has underlined the key role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is believed to result in an increase in reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and intracellular lipid deposition, all of which can contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Critical cells, including endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells, and macrophages, play an important role in atherosclerosis. Mitochondrial function is also involved in maintaining the normal function of these cells. To better understand the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and atherosclerosis, this review summarizes the findings of recent studies and discusses the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the risk factors and critical cells of atherosclerosis. Facts: center dot Two processes are believed to play a decisive role in the development of atherosclerosis: chronic inflammation and impaired lipoprotein metabolism center dot Mitochondrial dysfunction is the major unifying mechanism of several risk factors associated with atherosclerosis center dot Therapies targeting mitochondrial dysfunction are promising strategies to treat atherosclerosis. Open questions: center dot How does excessive reactive oxygen species production affect the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis? center dot How do lipid metabolism disorders affect mitochondrial function?