Cytotoxic lymphocytes and atherosclerosis: significance, mechanisms and therapeutic challenges

Abstract

Cytotoxic lymphocytes encompass natural killer lymphocytes (cells) and cytotoxic T cells that include CD8+ T cells, natural killer (NK) T cells, γ, δ (γδ)-T cells and human CD4 + CD28− T cells. These cells play critical roles in inflammatory diseases and in controlling cancers and infections. Cytotoxic lymphocytes can be activated via a number of mechanisms that may involve dendritic cells, macrophages, cytokines or surface proteins on stressed cells. Upon activation, they secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and cytotoxins to promote inflammation and the development of atherosclerotic lesions including vulnerable lesions, which are strongly i..