Target to Prevent Hardening of Arteries Identified

May 16, 2013
Science Daily
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/05/130516161700.htm

Summary: The hardening of the arteries is caused by a build up of plaques, a form of connective tissue. Until recently, the exact method of this hardening was unknown.  But early this year it was discovered the exact cellular and molecular pathway of this hardening.  One particular protein that is involved in the build up of plaques is Dkk1.  Normally, Dkk1 is a helpful protein to the body.  It causes an inflammatory response, aiding in the repair of wounds.  But, Dkk1 sometimes initiates the conversion of endothelial cells inside arteries into mesenchymal cells, which cause a dangerous stiffening of the artery walls, increasing systolic blood pressure.  All of this new information is helpful because now specific Dkk1 protein inhibitors can be observed and used in prevention of heart disease.

Connection: This connects to our most recent unit, about the circulatory system.  The build up of plaques cause cardio vascular diseases, which we studied.  We also learned about inflammatory responses to heal injuries, as well as blood pressure.  Systolic pressure, the maximum pressure, is increased when plaques build up.  This can be dangerous and can lead to disease.