Increasing evidence for immune-mediated processes and new therapeutic approaches in abdominal aortic aneurysms - A review

Abstract

Animal models for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs), immunogenetical and pathophysiological studies support the importance of immune-mediated processes in the pathogenesis of AAA disease. Neutrophils, natural killer (NK) cells, monocytes/macrophages, and proinflammatory cytokines are involved in the complex and dynamic tissue remodeling of the AAA vessel wall. Our group showed an increased prevalence of circulating interferon-γ (IFN-γ) producing CD28? T cells especially in smaller AAAs, thus supporting the concept of a T cell-mediated pathophysiology of AAAs, especially during the early development of AAAs. Further research should nowassess the possible benefit of anti-inflammatory therapeutic approaches in AAA patients, especially with small AAAs. © 2006 New York Academy of Sciences.