Science Letters

Biomedical Sciences | Mini-review article

Research Progress on Diagnosis and Treatment of Atherosclerosis

Rajesh Basnet 1, Sandhya Khadka 2, Yuchun Wang 3, Radheshyam Gupta 3, 4*

1 Department of Pharmacy, Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal

2 Department of Pharmacy, Hope International College, Purbanchal University, Lalitpur, Nepal

3 Department of Pharmacy, Qiqihar Medical University, Bukui Street-333, Jian Hua District, Qiqihar, Heilongjiang, China

4 Deptartment of General Surgery, Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery, Nepal Korea Friendship Municipality Hospital, Madhyapur Thimi, Nepal

Abstract

The cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Despite preventive measures, early detection and common pathophysiological mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases remained unclear. Atherosclerosis is a major chronic progressive inflammatory cardiovascular disease caused by early endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, lipid deposition and monocyte recruitment leading to platelet aggregation. To eliminate the patient's conditions, researchers continue to explore effective strategies, including nano-inspired therapeutics and diagnostics. Nanoparticles represent a new strategy for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of atherosclerosis. Although nanotechnology has proven its effectiveness in cancer and other diseases, it is necessary to apply it to clinical practices for atherosclerosis. Here, we reviewed the available literature in an attempt to demystify drug delivery and atherosclerosis diagnosis of nanometer carriers. Based on the mechanisms of these drug delivery strategies, we further emphasized the pharmacology and characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques. In conclusion, this article provides a concise literature source for researchers working with the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.