Immune cells to fight atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is a disease characterized by the accumulation of cholesterol-containingatheromatous plaques along artery walls. These deposits can lead to blockages or ruptures, leading to serious pathologies such as heart attacks or strokes. However, a team of Inserm researchers led by Philippe Lesnik* has recently discovered that a population of immune cells called MAIT may play an important role in protecting against atherosclerosis.
MAIT-deficient cells in atherosclerosis patients
The Inserm team observed a deficiency in MAIT cells, also known as Mucosal-Associated Invariant T cells, in patients with atherosclerosis. These cells, found mainly in mucous membranes, recognize bacterial components and protect against infection. However, their activity has also been associated with other pathologies such as graft-versus-host disease, liver fibrosis and type 1 diabetes.
To study their role in atherosclerosis, the researchers conducted experiments on mice, stimulating or inhibiting the production of MAIT cells. They then subjected these mice to a diet rich in cholesterol, known to promote atherosclerotic plaque formation.
A protective mechanism against atherosclerosis
The results showed that mice deficient in MAIT cells rapidly developed atherosclerotic plaques, while those with an overabundance of these cells showed a reduction in disease. The researchers discovered that these cells were involved in the activation of a molecular pathway, the IL-22 pathway, which promotes cholesterol excretion via the intestinal tract. Thus, MAIT cells contribute to the reduction of cholesterol accumulation in atherosclerotic plaques.
The researchers hope to pursue their research in humans to develop new therapeutic strategies targeting MAIT cells to combat atherosclerosis.
*Philippe Lesnik is Inserm Research Director in the Cardiovascular Diseases of Metabolism and Nutrition research unit (ICAN, unit 1166, Inserm/Sorbonne University), in Paris.
Sources :
H. Wang et al. MAIT Cells Promote Cholesterol Excretion Pathways Mitigating Atherosclerosis. Circulation Research March 26, 2025; DOI:10.1161/circresaha.124.325841
This article has been adapted from content published by Inserm. Find the source article and all references on the Inserm website.