AUTHOR=Liu Zheng , Huang Nan , Liu Chan , Wu Can , Zhou Ling , Liu Xiang , Lei Haibo 

TITLE=Mitochondrial DNA in atherosclerosis research progress: a mini review

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Immunology

VOLUME=Volume 16 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1526390

DOI=10.3389/fimmu.2025.1526390

ISSN=1664-3224

ABSTRACT=Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects large and medium-sized arteries and is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. This article reviews the multifaceted role of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in AS, including its structure, function, release, and relationship with inflammation. Damage and release of mtDNA are considered central drivers in the development of AS, as they participate in the progression of AS by activating inflammatory pathways and affecting lipid metabolism. Therefore, therapeutic strategies targeting mtDNA and its downstream effects may provide new avenues to address this global health challenge.