About this Research Topic

Background

Carotid atherosclerosis is responsible for 15% of strokes worldwide. Despite the evolution of surgical technique and endovascular treatment, post-operative and intra-operative complications, such as cerebral hypo perfusion during carotid clamping, hype perfusion syndrome, and re-stenosis in the short-medium term, are frequent. In recent years, advances in research and medical technology have shed light on the complex mechanisms underlying carotid atherosclerosis, paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat this vascular condition. Moreover, advanced imaging modalities such as high-resolution ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography angiography (CTA) have revolutionized the diagnosis and monitoring of carotid atherosclerosis. These techniques allow physicians to visualize plaque composition, assess plaque vulnerability, and guide therapeutic decisions. In future directions, a comprehensive approach combining precision medicine, innovative pharmacotherapy, and cutting-edge technologies has the potential to revolutionize the management of carotid atherosclerosis, reducing the burden of ischemic stroke on individuals and healthcare systems alike.

The main goal of this collection of articles is to present new findings in state-of-the-art imaging analysis, genetic studies, RNA sequencing (bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomics), immunohistochemical studies of atherosclerotic plaques, biomechanical and hemodynamic studies, through to identify prognostic tools and mechanisms based on which to develop, in the future, new therapeutic strategies to prevent cerebrovascular events and to improve peri-operative evolution.

We welcome any types of papers apart from Case Reports.

The scope of this research topic involves advancing our understanding of the disease process and developing innovative strategies for more targeted and personalized interventions. Here are several critical areas of focus:

Genomic Research: Further exploration of genetic factors associated with susceptibility to carotid atherosclerosis and its progression.

Biomarkers: Continued research into biomarkers that can reliably predict atherosclerotic plaques' presence, activity, and vulnerability. Early and accurate identification of high-risk plaques can guide timely interventions.

Molecular Imaging: Developing imaging techniques that allow for the visualization of molecular and cellular processes within atherosclerotic plaques.

Tissue Engineering: Exploring tissue engineering approaches to develop bioengineered vessels that can replace or support damaged portions of the carotid arteries.

Biomechanical analysis: Exploring the impact of the atherosclerotic plaque's composition on the arterial wall's biomechanical profile.

Keywords: strokes, carotid endarterectomy, plaque vulnerability, cerebral hypoxia, cerebral hyperperfusion, biomarker, endovascular treatment, histopathology, plaque rupture, re-stenosis, inflammation, extracellular matrix, risk factors

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