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Review
. 2025;2(1):19.
doi: 10.1038/s44325-025-00056-8. Epub 2025 May 28.

Mechanisms and implications of vascular-homing CD8 T cells in atherosclerosis

Xi Su  1   2 , Katelyn A O'Hare  1 , Michael L Freeman  1   3
Affiliations
Review

Mechanisms and implications of vascular-homing CD8 T cells in atherosclerosis

Xi Su et al. NPJ Cardiovasc Health. 2025.

Abstract

CD8 T cells likely contribute to atherosclerosis. Here, we review the relationship of vascular-homing CD8 T cells to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with discussions of atherogenic and atheroprotective CD8 T cell subsets, encompassing their origin, activation, antigen-specificity, trafficking, and functionality. Furthermore, we explore factors that promote CD8 T cell vascular-homing phenotypes, such as infections and inflammation, and describe innovative therapeutic strategies targeting vascular-homing CD8 T cells in people with atherosclerosis.

Keywords: Atherosclerosis; Immunology.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interestsThe authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1. Overview of key concepts.
Schematic illustrating the role of CD8 T cells within atherosclerotic plaques including cytokine and chemokine signaling, and antigen-specific T cell activation.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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