Experimental models of accelerated atherosclerosis syndromes

The processes of angioplasty restenosis, vein graft failure, and transplant atherosclerosis, collectively termed ‘syndromes of accelerated atherosclerosis’, have been the focus of significant clinical and experimental research. Limitations of clinical studies have forced emphasis onto experimental animal models for the purpose of determining pathophysiology and evaluation of potential therapeutic strategies. However, the apparent failure of many in vivo animal models to predict interventional outcome in humans has raised doubt over their suitability as models of these pathophysiological states. Similar criticism has befallen the use of in vitro techniques for elucidating pathophysiology of the cellular elements. An awareness of the shortcomings of the various experimental models in use would therefore seem prerequisite both to a more critical evaluation of data generated from their use, and to the development of truly effective therapeutic strategies for humans.