Atherothrombosis Prevention and Treatment with Anti-interleukin-1 Agents

AbstractPurpose of ReviewDespite major advances in terms of prevention, diagnosis, risk-stratification, management and rehabilitation, atherosclerosis and atherothrombosis continue to have major morbidity and mortality implications worldwide. Since the unraveling of the pivotal role of inflammation in atherothrombosis pathophysiology, several focused treatments have been proposed with the ultimate goal of preventing or treating myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral artery disease. In particular, given the centrality of interleukin-1 (IL-1), targeted anti-IL-1 agents have attracted substantial attention and efforts. Yet, uncertainty persists on the real risk-benefit and cost-benefit balance of anti-IL-1 agents in patients with or at risk of atherothrombosis.Recent FindingsSeveral trials have been recently completed on atherothrombosis prevention and treatment with anti-IL-1 agents, ranging, for instance, from the large Canakinumab Antiinflammatory Thrombosis Outcome Study (CANTOS) trial to the series of translational studies conducted within the Virginia Commonwealth University-Anakinra Remodeling Trial (VCU-ART) platform. In light of the present scoping umbrella review, it appears evident that anti-IL-1 agents can reduce systemic inflammation and improve surrogate markers of cardiac and vascular function, with potential benefits on the risk of new/worsening heart failure. One trial suggested an increased risk of major adverse events with anti-interleukin-1 agents, pos...

Source: Current Atherosclerosis Reports - January 12, 2020 Category: Cardiology Source Type: research