Acid-sensing ion channels: Linking extracellular acidification with atherosclerosis

摘要: Abstract Extracellular acidification in atherosclerosis-prone regions of arterial walls is considered pro-atherosclerotic by exerting detrimental effect on macrophages, endothelial cells (ECs) and vascular smooth muscle (VSMCs). Acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), a family extracellular H+ (proton)-gated cation channels, are present extensively the nervous system other tissues, implying physiologic as well pathophysiologic importance. Aberrant activation ASICs thought to be associated EC dysfunction, macrophage phenotypic switch, VSMC migration proliferation. Although vitro evidence acknowledges contribution ASIC atherosclerosis, no direct confirms their roles vivo. In this review, acidity three major contributors, ECs, VSMCs, discussed focusing potential atherosclerotic development underlying pathology. A more comprehensive understanding these processes may provide promising new therapeutic targets for treatment prevention diseases.