A novel anti-inflammatory agent (Lipoxin A4) as a treatment against atherosclerosis in diabetes targeting perivascular adipose tissue

Diabetes greatly increases the risk of atherosclerosis by damaging the perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT), a protective layer that surrounds blood vessels. My research explored whether endogenously produced pro-resolving molecules called lipoxins, could protect against atherosclerosis by protecting the PVAT against inflammation. Using a diabetic mouse model, cell line studies and RNA-sequencing approaches, I demonstrated that lipoxins protect against the buildup of plaque in the aorta but were also able to reduce plaque after disease was already established. Importantly, lipoxins also protected the PVAT against inflammation by altering a number of signaling pathways related to inflammation, the recruitment of inflammatory macrophages and metabolism. These findings identify PVAT as a new treatment target and highlight the use of lipoxins as a promising therapy in the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease in people with diabetes.