Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
diagnostic and treatment regimes. Novel therapies currently being investigated
include the use of i sh oil supplements and hormone replacement therapy. Lipid-
lowering statins may also be important as not only do they reduce cholesterol, but
they also have other pleiotrophic ef ects that may lead to a reduction in adhesion
molecule levels. Statins may reduce adhesion molecule expression by increasing
nitric oxide production, decreasing the susceptibility of LDL to oxidation, and
through their antioxidant ef ects inhibit the migration of macrophages and smooth
muscle cell proliferation (Tsiara
et al.
2003). Peroxisome proliferator-activated
receptor-α (PPAR-α) agonists, used to regulate lipid and glucose homeostasis, may
reduce adhesion molecule levels by preventing the activation of NF-κB.
Diagnosis of Disease
Circulating adhesion molecule levels may be useful tools for diagnosis of disease
and for stratifying individuals according to disease severity and prognosis. h ey
may also provide insights into disease mechanisms.
Role of Adhesion Molecules in Sleep-related CVD
Emerging evidence suggests that disturbances in sleep and sleep disorders,
including obstructive sleep apnoea, play a role in the development and morbidity of
chronic conditions including CVD. h is in part may be mediated by inl ammatory
mechanisms (Miller and Cappuccio 2007b). h e observed periods of hypoxia that
are associated with obstructive sleep apnoea may lead to activation of NF-κB,
TNF-α and ultimately cellular adhesion molecule expression
(Fig. 5).
SUMMARY
1. Adhesion molecules are important in atherosclerotic plaque development.
2. Soluble adhesion molecules can be found in the circulation.
3. Soluble adhesion molecule levels are related to risk factors for, and the
development of, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and coronary heart disease
(CHD).
4. h e prevalence of CVD is more common in individuals with metabolic
syndrome (MetS).
5. Relationships between soluble adhesion molecules and measures of
obesity and other risk factors for MetS are adhesion molecule- and gender-
specii c.
6. Consistent associations have been observed between sE-selectin and
measures of obesity, as well as blood pressure, serum lipids and insulin.
