The role of neuropilins in atherosclerosis

How do neuropilins regulate macrophage biology and influence the development of atherosclerosis? (Mr Jacob Sayers)

Heart attacks and most strokes are caused by atherosclerosis, a build-up of fatty material (plaques) inside our arteries. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes damage to the walls of our arteries. During this process, cells from our immune system, called macrophages, populate the artery wall and contribute to inflamed plaques, which can rupture and block blood flow. Research teams around the world are searching for clues to create medicines that can prevent this disease process in arteries, and therefore prevent people suffering heart attacks and strokes. Professor Ian Zachary and his team have discovered molecules in mice called neuropilins that are produced by immune cells in diseased arteries. These molecules are already known to be active in some cancers, but little is known about their potential role in atherosclerosis. This project will aim to uncover how neuropilins act in diseased arteries, by studying mice that don’t produce the molecules. By studying neuropilins in atherosclerosis, the team hope to develop a better understanding of heart and circulatory disease, which will help us spot ways to combat progression of the disease with new medicines, and save lives from heart attack and stroke.