Necroptosis in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is a leading cause of death worldwide. Vascular endothelial cells (VECs), vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and macrophages play extremely vital roles in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and subsequent atherosclerosis. Necroptosis, a caspase-independent programmed cell necrosis, occurs in advanced atherosclerotic plaques and has been implicated in VEC, VSMC and macrophage function. Although necroptosis may have considered as a defensive line against intracellular infection, it can induce a pro-inflammatory state, which will accelerate the disease process. Accordingly, necroptosis plays an important pathophysiologic role. In this review, we explore the role of necroptosis in VECs, VSMCs and macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques and their connection to atherosclerosis.