The gut microbiota: An emerging risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease

Abstract Commensal gut microbiota have recently been implicated in cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cerebrovascular disease. Atherosclerotic plaque formation depends on the colonization status of the host. In addition to host nutrition and the related microbiota‐dependent metabolic changes, activation of innate immune pathways triggers the development of atherosclerosis and supports arterial thrombosis. Gnotobiotic mouse models have uncovered that activation of Toll‐like receptor‐2 by gut microbial ligands supports von Willebrand factor‐integrin mediated platelet deposition to the site of vascular injury. Depending on nutritional factors, the microbiota‐derived choline‐metabolite trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) increases atherosclerotic plaque size, triggers prothrombotic platelet function and promotes arterial thrombus growth. Hence, the composition of the commensal microbiota is an emerging risk factor for CVD. Here, we provide an overview on microbiota‐dependent pathomechanisms that drive the development of CVD and arterial thrombosis. Cardiovascular disease is influenced by diet‐dependent effects on the gut microbiota. The molecular pathways through which commensals influence the development of hypertension, atherosclerosis and arterial thrombosis are increasingly recognized. This review article delineates recent discoveries on the functional linkage of gut microbiota with cardiovascular disease.
Source: European Journal of Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Review Source Type: research