High-density lipoprotein mimetic nano-therapeutics targeting monocytes and macrophages for improved cardiovascular care: a comprehensive review

Abstract

The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases continues to be a challenge for global health, necessitating innovative solutions. The potential of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) mimetic nanotherapeutics in the context of cardiovascular disease and the intricate mechanisms underlying the interactions between monocyte-derived cells and HDL mimetic showing their impact on inflammation, cellular lipid metabolism, and the progression of atherosclerotic plaque. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that HDL mimetic nanotherapeutics can regulate monocyte recruitment and macrophage polarization towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype, suggesting their potential to impede the progression of atherosclerosis. The challenges and opportunities associated with the clinical application of HDL mimetic nanotherapeutics, emphasize the need for additional research to gain a better understanding of the precise molecular pathways and long-term effects of these nanotherapeutics on monocytes and macrophages to maximize their therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, the use of nanotechnology in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases highlights the potential of nanoparticles for targeted treatments. Moreover, the concept of theranostics combines therapy and diagnosis to create a selective platform for the conversion of traditional therapeutic medications into specialized and customized treatments. The multifaceted contributions of HDL to cardiovascular and metabolic health via highlight its potential to improve plaque stability and avert atherosclerosis-related problems. There is a need for further research to maximize the therapeutic efficacy of HDL mimetic nanotherapeutics and to develop targeted treatment approaches to prevent atherosclerosis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the potential of nanotherapeutics in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to address the challenges posed by cardiovascular diseases.

Keywords: Cardiovascular diseases; nanotechnology; High-density lipoprotein; Macrophages; Monocytes; Nanomedicine; Targeted therapy.

Fig. 1

Illustration of the multifaceted reasons behind the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases, emphasizing the complex interplay of lifestyle, environment, genetics, socioeconomic status, and emerging health issues

Fig. 2

Monocytes serve as a focal point for nanoparticle therapeutic intervention in cardiovascular diseases

Fig. 3

The distinctive features of HDL nanoparticles and their promising applications in cardiovascular diseases, including their unique structure, capacity for drug delivery, anti-atherosclerotic effects, imaging capabilities, and potential future directions in research and development. Adapted from [72] under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Fig. 4

An overview of the multifaceted contributions of HDL to different parameters of human health, encompassing cardiovascular and metabolic health. Adapted from [72] under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Fig. 5

Overview of the diverse applications of nanoparticles as nanotherapeutics, emphasizing their roles in targeted drug delivery, diagnostic imaging, controlled release systems, personalized medicine, and the exciting frontier of emerging applications

Fig. 6

High density lipoprotein nanoparticles as potential therapies and for molecular delivery