Macrophage caspase-8 inhibition accelerates necrotic core expansion in atheroma plaque in mice.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Cell death plays a central role in atheroma plaque progression and aggravation. This study investigates the role of caspase-8 in regulating macrophage cell death modalities, specifically apoptosis and necroptosis, within atheroma plaques.

Methods

Bone marrow from caspase-8-deficient (Casp8^komac ) and cohoused wildtype littermates were transplanted in atherosclerosis-prone Ldlr^-/- recipient mice fed with a proatherogenic diet. Aortic plaque development, necrotic core formation, and cell death were analyzed through histological and biochemical assays. In vitro investigation of macrophages exposed to atherogenic stimuli assessed the effects of caspase-8 inhibition on apoptotic and necroptotic pathways.

Results

SUBMITTER: Pilot T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12011591 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature