[Cardioangioimmunology: the immune implications in the principle cardiovascular pathologies]

Abstract

At present, it is known that the immune system acts through the release of protein factors, so-called cytokines. In addition to their immunomodulating and endocrinometabolic effects, cytokines have appeared to be able to have an influence on the cardiovascular system by inducing important haemodynamic changes. Cytokines cause hypotension, particularly IL-2 and TNF, due at least in part to a production of nitric oxide by endothelial cells. Cytokines, such as IL-1, IL-6 and TNF, stimulate myocardial infiltration by activating leukocytes and inducing the release of cytotoxic factors during myocardial infarction; that would extend the area of necrosis. Finally, cytokines would be involved in the pathogenesis of the atherosclerosis, and cholesterol metabolism itself would be under a cytokine control. On these bases, it is possible to suggest in the near future the elaboration of new therapeutic strategies and prognostic indications, according to the bioimmunological response of patients with cardiovascular diseases.