Application of Cardiovascular Disease Mouse Models in the Study of Hypertension and Atherosclerosis

Mouse models of cardiovascular disease are valuable for studying the underlying mechanisms of hypertension and atherosclerosis, two major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. These models provide a controlled and reproducible environment to dissect disease pathways, evaluate therapeutic interventions, and identify potential biomarkers.

1. Hypertension Research

Mouse models are widely used to study the genetic and molecular basis of hypertension. Spontaneously hypertensive mice (SHRs) are one of the most established models, which mimic essential hypertension in humans and play an important role in studying blood pressure regulation and its impact on cardiovascular health. Angiotensin II-induced hypertensive mice are another commonly used model, which has provided insights into the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) in vascular remodeling and organ damage. These models help researchers explore novel antihypertensive drugs, such as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or calcium channel blockers, and evaluate their efficacy and mechanism of action.

2. Atherosclerosis Research

Atherosclerosis mouse models, such as ApoE-deficient (ApoE-/-) and LDL receptor-deficient (LDLR-/-) mice, are essential for studying the formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. These models develop hyperlipidemia and arterial plaques similar to humans when fed a high-fat diet, providing insights into lipid metabolism, inflammation, and vascular pathology. Researchers use these models to study the effects of statins, PCSK9 inhibitors, and anti-inflammatory therapies on plaque stabilization and regression.

3. Relevance to Clinical Translation

By modeling human cardiovascular disease, these mouse models bridge the gap between basic research and clinical applications. They can perform preclinical testing of drugs and interventions, promote the development of antihypertensive and atherosclerotic therapies, and ultimately improve cardiovascular health.

It can be said that cardiovascular disease mouse models remain an important tool for understanding complex disease mechanisms and developing targeted treatments.

Reference

[1] Hector Rincon-Arevalo et al., Data in Brief 2016 (DOI:10.1016/j.dib.2016.02.048)