Multiple pathway assessment to predict anti-atherogenic efficacy of drugs targeting macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques.

Background: Macrophages play a central role in atherosclerosis development and progression, hence, targeting macrophage activity is considered an attractive therapeutic. Recently, we documented nanomedicinal delivery of the anti-inflammatory compound prednisolone to atherosclerotic plaque macrophages in patients, which did however not translate into therapeutic efficacy. This unanticipated finding calls for in-depth screening of drugs intended for targeting plaque macrophages.

Head-to-Head Comparison of Anti-Inflammatory Performance of Known Natural Products In Vitro.

Inflammation is an important therapeutic target. Due to their potency, steroidal drugs dominate the current treatment of inflammatory disorders. However, steroidal drugs can also exert a broad range of side effects and appear not always effective.