TLR4 signaling: a potential therapeutic target in ischemic coronary artery disease

Int Immunopharmacol. 2014 Nov;23(1):54-9. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2014.08.011. Epub 2014 Aug 23.

Abstract

Atherosclerosis has been widely considered as a chronic inflammation process, which triggers a wide range of cardiovascular diseases such as ischemic coronary artery disease (CAD). Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a primary receptor of the innate immune system, plays a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. Here we summarize recent progress on understanding the activation and function of TLR4 signaling in the initiation and development of CAD, with the focus on the role of TLR4 as a link between CAD and other inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, we list a variety of drugs which exert anti-atherosclerosis effects via targeting TLR4 signaling. Finally, we discuss the promise of TLR4 signaling as a therapeutic target for CAD.

Keywords: Atherosclerosis; Coronary artery disease; Inflammation; TLR4; ox-LDL.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Coronary Artery Disease / immunology
  • Coronary Artery Disease / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Immunity, Innate / drug effects
  • Molecular Targeted Therapy*
  • Renin-Angiotensin System / drug effects
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects
  • Toll-Like Receptor 4 / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Toll-Like Receptor 4 / immunology*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA Reductase Inhibitors
  • Toll-Like Receptor 4