How can we slow down atherosclerosis? Researcher Amanda Foks believes it may be possible by targeting aged immune cells. This could lead to an entirely new treatment for heart attacks and strokes. For this research, she has been awarded the Established Investigator Dekker Grant from the Dutch Heart Foundation.
Atherosclerosis develops when fats and cells accumulate in the blood vessel walls over many years. Often, there are no noticeable symptoms, until a plaque suddenly ruptures, which can trigger an acute heart attack or stroke.
As we age, the risk increases: blood vessels become less flexible and the immune system functions less effectively, leading to inflammation. These inflammatory processes, in turn, accelerate atherosclerosis.
The role of aged B cells
B cells are white blood cells that help neutralize pathogens. However, as people age, some of these cells change: they become senescent and start producing substances that promote inflammation. This may exacerbate atherosclerosis.
“We were the first to show that these aged B cells are present in the blood and in atherosclerotic plaques of cardiovascular patients,” says Amanda Foks. “We discovered that these B cells contribute to increased inflammation and worsening of atherosclerosis. But exactly how these cells function is still unknown.”
Examining immune cells
With the grant, Foks will investigate how aged B cells contribute to vascular inflammation and the progression of atherosclerosis, such as by identifying the harmful substances they release. She will also map where these aged B cells are located in the vessel walls and how they interact with other cells.
“Ultimately, we aim to develop a treatment that selectively removes aged B cells while leaving healthy immune cells intact,” Amanda adds. “In this way, we hope to slow down, or perhaps even prevent, atherosclerosis. This could become a completely new treatment for heart attacks and strokes.”
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