The Input of Professor V. I. Kalmykova into Studying Pathogenesis of Atherosclerosis (to Ninetieth Anniversary)

Abstract

The atherosclerosis is considered among the most prevalent diseases. In Russia, N. N. Anitchkov and A. L. Miasnikov are founders of atherosclerosis studies. Valentina Iosifovna Miasnikova, doctor of medical sciences, professor of the Chair of Faculty Therapy #2 of the Sechenov University is one the numerous followers of A. L. Miasnikov. From the early 1960s, Valentina Iosifovna, proceeding with ideas of N. N. Anitchkov and A. L. Miasnikov, actively investigated pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. The professor V. I. Kalmykova, one of the first in Russia presented pathogenesis of atherosclerosis as a multi-factorial process and, combining theories existed at that moment, described effect of peroxidation of lipids on all stages of development of atherosclerotic plaque. She carried out a unique scientific investigation concerning studying intensity of peroxidation of lipids and antioxidant activity of lipids in patients with various degree of expression of ischemic heart disease. The gender characteristics of content of peroxides and antioxidant activity of lipids of blood serum were established. The research works of professor V. I. Kalmykova made an invaluable contribution into comprehension of pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and obtained an international approval. The scientific data obtained by V. I. Kalmykova were confirmed by studies of national and international researchers. Nowadays, the role of oxidation process in pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease is generally acknowledged.