Treating inflammation in atherosclerosis with natural products
Accumulation of spongy lipids on the arterial wall leads to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and is implicated in heart attacks and stroke. In addition, recent evidence suggests a role for inflammation in atherosclerosis.
Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, plays a central role in vascular inflammation. Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) and cholesterol crystals— trigger NLRP3 activation through reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, lysosomal rupture, and potassium efflux. This, in turn, drives the maturation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-18) and initiates macrophage pyroptosis.
The researchers in this review discuss the immunomodulatory potential of natural products—both complex extracts and single bioactive compounds—in inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome axis. They also summarize the pharmacological mechanisms by which these natural agents intercept inflammatory signaling at multiple stages.
Thus, the authors highlight natural product-derived inhibitors as a promising class of immunomodulators capable of attenuating atherosclerotic progression and addressing the persistent challenge of residual inflammatory risk.
