Dr. Daemen presented the important role of genomics of foam cell macrophages in atherosclerosis. He states that an important element is hypoxia and that specific genes (n=42) are expressed in macrophages in stable advanced atheromatous plaque. Increased TWST1 expression levels occur in oxLDL stimulated macrophages.
Prof. Newby presented the role of proteomics and proteases in foam cells. Especially he states that MMP-12 marks foam cells only in advanced plaques. He stated also that there are differences in the secretion of MMP in the early and late macrophages.
Dr. Kovanen presented the role of mast cells. He showed that mast cells are found in totally occluded human coronary arteries and in culprit coronary arteries, which leads to acute myocardial infarction. Factors which activate mast cells are oxidative stress and other inflammatory markers. They release proteases, especially lipid proteases, and inflammatory mediators.
Dr. Back presented the role of leukotrienes in atherosclerosis. He said that inhibition of leukotrienes leads to reduced intima-media thickness. Also he presented data indicating that they interact with leukocytes, endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells. Inhibition of leukotrienes may be a new target for treatment in atherosclerosis.
Dr. Pasterkamp presented local inflammatory markers. He showed that a strong predictor in carotid plaque for future events is the presence of thrombus. He also stated that osteopontin is related to the future cardiovascular event (myocardial infarction, thrombosis, peripheral artery disease). The predictive value of plaque osteopontin is not related to CD48 and other inflammatory markers.