Vascular proliferation and atherosclerosis: New perspectives and therapeutic strategies

In atherosclerosis, the vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) contributes to vessel wall inflammation and lipoprotein retention as well as to the formation of the fibrous cap that provides stability to the plaque. The VSMC can undergo a proliferative response that underlies the development of in stent restenosis, bypass graft occlusion and transplant vasculopathy Although the benefit/risk of therapeutic inhibition of VSMC proliferation in atherosclerosis is unclear, experimental and human evidence strongly suggests the therapeutic potential of antiproliferative therapy for in-stent restenosis, bypass graft failure and other vascular proliferative disorders.