Expression, regulation, and pathophysiological role of NAD(P)H oxidases in atherogenesis

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the development and progression of atherosclerotic lesions. Significant increase of reactive oxygen species production by vascular cells can lead to progression of atherosclerotic lesions and development of unstable plaques due to triggering the apoptosis of endothelial and smooth muscle cells, expression of matrix metalloproteases and inflammatory cytokines. Cytolysis NAD(P)H-dependent oxidases appeared to be involved in reactive oxygen species production in the vascular network. Understanding of functions and regulation of individual NAD(P)H oxidases in atherosclerotic lesions can facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategy for treating atherosclerosis. This review summarizes current data regarding expression, regulation and pathophysiological significance of these enzymes during development and progression of human atherosclerotic lesions.