SIRT1 inhibits monocyte adhesion to the vascular endothelium by suppressing Mac-1 expression on monocytes

Atherosclerosis: Intervening in the early stages of plaque formation Researchers have identified a possible new tool, the signaling molecule SIRT1, to fight vascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, hardening of the arteries. In atherosclerosis, plaque builds up in arteries, restricting blood flow and potentially causing heart attack or stroke. Early in the disease, white blood cells called monocytes stick to artery walls, triggering inflammation. Administering SIRT1 was known to decrease inflammation, but how it did so was unclear. Chi Dae Kim at Pusan National University in South Korea and co-workers investigated the signals that trigger monocytes to attach to artery walls, and how SIRT1 might prevent attachment. After identifying the signals, further testing in mice fed a high-fat diet showed that SIRT1 strongly decreased plaque formation. These findings illuminate the causes and progression of atherosclerosis and may help identify better treatments.