The Interplay of Autoimmune Diseases, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Endothelial Function: A Comprehensive Review and Meta Analysis

Abstract

Adawi Mohammad* and Awni Yousef

Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are chronic, systemic disorders marked by aberrant immune responses against self-antigens, leading to widespread inflammation and tissue damage. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of mortality in AID patients, share common pathological mechanisms rooted in endothelial dysfunction and chronic inflammation. This comprehensive review explores the intricate relationship among AIDs, CVDs, and endothelial function, emphasizing the role of immune dysregulation and endothelial cell activation in disease progression. The endothelium emerges as both a target and mediator in this interplay, linking systemic inflammation to vascular pathology. The review synthesizes current evidence on the pathophysiology of AIDs, the epidemiology and mechanisms of CVDs, and the pivotal role of endothelial dysfunction. It also presents findings from a meta- analysis highlighting increased cardiovascular risk among AID patients and shared inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways. Novel therapeutic strategies involving endothelial protection and immune modulation are discussed as promising avenues for mitigating the comorbidity burden. The findings underscore the need for integrative research and early intervention strategies to address the shared etiologies and improve outcomes for patients affected by these interrelated conditions.

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