Theories and Molecular Basis of Vascular Aging: A Review of the Literature from VascAgeNet Group on Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Vascular Aging

Abstract

Vascular aging, characterized by structural and functional alterations of the vascular wall, is a hallmark of aging and is tightly related to the development of cardiovascular mortality and age-associated vascular pathologies. Over the last years, extensive and ongoing research has highlighted several sophisticated molecular mechanisms that are involved in the pathophysiology of vascular aging. A more thorough understanding of these mechanisms could help to provide a new insight into the complex biology of this non-reversible vascular process and direct future interventions to improve longevity. In this review, we discuss the role of the most important molecular pathways involved in vascular ageing including oxidative stress, vascular inflammation, extracellular matrix metalloproteinases activity, epigenetic regulation, telomere shortening, senescence and autophagy.

Keywords: atherosclerosis; inflammation; matrix metalloproteinases; oxidative stress; vascular aging.

Figure 1

Molecular mechanisms of vascular aging. Oxidative stress, cellular senescence, telomere shortening, epigenetic regulation, matrix metalloproteinases and autophagy represent the main pathophysiological mechanisms mediating inflammation, atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction, finally leading to vascular ageing.