Title:Evaluation of Therapeutic Agents Targeting the Pathogenesis of Coronary Artery Spasm: A Mini Review
Volume: 19
Issue: 4
Author(s): Xin Zhao, Jinfan Tian, Zhishuai Ye, Mingyue Xu, Xiantao Song*Rongchong Huang*
Affiliation:
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Disease, Beijing 100029,China
- Department of Cardiology, Beijing Friendship Hospital, Capital Medical University, Xuan Wu District, Beijing 100050,China
Keywords:
Coronary artery spasm, endothelial dysfunction, vascular smooth muscle cell hyperreactivity, therapeutic targets,
ischemic heart disease, epicardial coronary artery.
Abstract: Coronary artery spasm (CAS) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of ischemic heart
disease. The clinical manifestations of CAS include variant angina, myocardial infarction and sudden
death. Although endothelial dysfunction and hyperreactivity of vascular smooth muscle cells have been
associated with CAS, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Thus, there is a long way to go to
truly understand the pathogenesis of CAS to formulate effective treatments. This article discusses the
pathophysiological mechanisms as well as downstream molecular pathways of CAS, with a focus on
potential therapeutic targets.