Role of T-Mem GEne in the Molecular Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is the main cause of cardiovascular diseases and is characterized by the progressive accumulation of lipids and inflammatory cells such as macrophages and lymphocytes within the vessel wall of large and medium-sized arteries, forming the so-called "atherosclerotic plaques". The formation process of these lesions is different depending on the age, genetics and physiological state of the individual affected. Furthermore, behavioral factors and the lifestyle of each individual play a key role, which can lead to the presence of a series of pro-atherosclerotic pathologies and risk factors, such as in particular systemic arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia and cigarette smoking. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this pathogenetic process are still under investigation.

The results of a study conducted in the past in collaboration between the U.O. have recently been published. of Vascular Surgery and the laboratory of Dr. I. Zucchi of the Institute of Biomedical Technologies of the CNR of Milan Segrate (Protocol GEMMA NUOVA, 16/int/2016), which describes that the overexpression of a newly identified gene (TMEM230) it may have a role in the formation of atherosclerotic vascular disorders, but it is still unclear how the expression of this gene is modulated in vivo.

Knowledge of these factors would increase the knowledge of the molecular mechanisms underlying atherosclerosis and could represent a possible target for prevention and targeted pharmacological treatment, with consequent potential reduction in disability or mortality from cardiovascular diseases.