Trained innate immunity as a novel mechanism linking infection and the development of atherosclerosis

Abstract

Rationale: There is strong epidemiological evidence for an association between acute and chronic infections and the occurrence of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms remain unclear. Monocyte-derived macrophages are the most abundant immune cells in atherosclerotic plaques. It has recently been established that monocytes/macrophages can develop a long-lasting proin flammatory phenotype after brief stimulation with micro-organisms or microbial products, which has been termed trained immunity. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess whether trained immunity mediates the link between infections and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Met..