Cyclophilins in Atherosclerosis: A new therapeutic target?

Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease with a significant inflammatory component. Recent studies indicate a role of extracellular cyclophilins as contributors to endothelial inflammation and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In this article, we review current literature on pro-inflammatory activities of extracellular cyclophilins and discuss possible approaches to selectively target this novel proinflammatory factor.