Abstract
Effectively improving myocardial blood flow and controlling atherosclerotic plaque have always been key and difficult points in the prevention and treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD). Although “therapeutic angiogenesis” is regarded as a promising approach for ischemic heart disease by improving blood flow, angiogenesis itself can induce the destabilization of atherosclerotic plaque, which reflects the double-edged role of angiogenesis. Modulating the balance of angiogenesis can be an important target for CAD treatment. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) emphasizes the holistic view and dynamic balance of the body. Furthermore, the principle of activating blood circulation and removing blood stasis (ABCRS) is closely connected with angiogenesis and CAD. Recent research suggests that Chinese herbal medicines for ABCRS are effective in balancing the regulation of angiogenesis. This review presents the progress of recent research on the angiogenesis regulation with Chinese herbal medicines for ABCRS in CAD. Moreover, this review demonstrates that Chinese herbal medicines for ABCRS can not only promote angiogenesis in the ischemic area to improve myocardial blood flow but also alleviate angiogenesis to stabilize plaque in atherosclerosis, which reflects the holistic regulatory role in CAD treatment.
Highlights
Coronary artery disease (CAD), known as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, coronary heart disease, and ischemic heart disease (IHD), is the most common cause of heart attacks [1]
More attention should be paid to balancing the regulation of angiogenesis in myocardial ischemia and atherosclerosis
Given the double-edged role of angiogenesis, this review aims to present the recent research progress on the regulatory role of angiogenesis by Chinese herbal medicines for ABCRS, which may provide a new angle of view with regard to the prevention and treatment of CAD
Summary
Coronary artery disease (CAD), known as coronary atherosclerotic heart disease, coronary heart disease, and ischemic heart disease (IHD), is the most common cause of heart attacks [1]. According to the World Health Organization, CAD is the leading cause of death worldwide among all noncommunicable diseases [2]. Current therapeutic options are limited to pharmacological therapy, percutaneous coronary intervention, and bypass surgery. A large number of patients do not qualify for surgical or interventional procedures [3], and these patients mainly present with refractory angina with severe atherosclerosis in the clinic. A number of studies have indicated that promoting angiogenesis is a promising approach for IHD [4], while angiogenesis in atherosclerosis induces plaque destabilization and hemorrhage [5]. More attention should be paid to balancing the regulation of angiogenesis in myocardial ischemia and atherosclerosis
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