A Comprehensive Single-Cell and Spatial Analysis of Macrophage States in Human Atherosclerotic Plaques

Category	Detail
Condition	Atherosclerosis
Key Mechanisms	Macrophage heterogeneity and state programs linked to plaque behavior and clinical outcomes.
Target Population	Individuals with atherosclerosis, particularly those undergoing carotid endarterectomy.
Care Setting	Clinical settings involving cardiovascular risk assessment and intervention.

Macrophages in atherosclerosis exhibit diverse states, including inflammatory and reparative phenotypes.
Distinct macrophage states are associated with clinical features like symptomatic disease and plaque instability.
Methodological heterogeneity in studies complicates cross-comparison and biological understanding.
A coherent macrophage atlas can enhance risk stratification and therapeutic targeting.
Spatial profiling reveals sex-dimorphic patterns in macrophage distribution and function.

Utilize single-cell and spatial transcriptomic profiling to assess macrophage states in plaques.

Incorporate macrophage state signatures for personalized risk assessment and treatment strategies.

Monitor changes in macrophage populations and states to predict cardiovascular events.

Consider factors like symptom status, biological sex, and comorbidities in assessing plaque instability.

Patients with symptomatic and asymptomatic atherosclerosis undergoing vascular interventions.

Macrophage-targeted therapies may improve outcomes by addressing specific inflammatory profiles.

Ensure rigorous tissue procurement protocols to maintain cellular viability and transcriptional fidelity.
Employ spatially resolved approaches for accurate macrophage state mapping.
Integrate clinical phenotyping with molecular profiling for comprehensive risk assessment.

Clinical Scorecard: A Comprehensive Single-Cell and Spatial Analysis of Macrophage States in Human Atherosclerotic Plaques