The field of cardiovascular disease, a leading cause of death globally, has recently turned its attention towards extracellular vesicles (EV) due to their role in cellular communication and potential in disease intervention. The complexities of cardiovascular pathophysiology, particularly the mechanisms of cell phenotype modifications due to altered hemodynamics or inflammation, are believed to be partly mediated by EV. These membranous particles, shed by various cell types, are pivotal in modulating cardiovascular functions both under normal and pathologic conditions. The increasing evidence linking EV to major cardiovascular conditions like atherosclerosis and valve calcification highlights their importance and raises questions about their exact role in various pathomechanisms.

This Research Topic aims to delineate the specific effects of EV on the initiation and advancement of cardiovascular disease. The aim is to uncover how EV influence the pathogenetic landscape of cardiovascular disease through their selective cargo, impacting cell behavior and extracellular matrix interactions. An improved understanding of EV-mediated disease mechanisms could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies, specifically targeting EV-mediated pathways.

To explore these dynamics thoroughly, this collection focuses on a comprehensive exploration of EV in the cardiovascular context, specifically:

- Analysis of cell-derived EV proteome and potential targets in cardiovascular disease
- Investigations into how EV influences the phenotype and function of vascular or valvular cells
- Animal model studies focusing on EV roles and their disease-related mediators
- Applications of EV from patient tissues or fluids in clinical settings to enhance diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring

Delving into these areas will provide a broader insight into the integral functions of EV and their potential utility in combating cardiovascular disease, aiming to bridge the gap between bench research and clinical application.

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Investigating the Role of Extracellular Vesicles in Cardiovascular Disease Mechanisms