Animal Models of Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis

Abstract

Animals models of atherosclerosis develop lesions either spontaneously or by interventions such as dietary, mechanical, chemical, or immunological induction. Animal models provide a means for studying the underlying mechanisms behind the atherosclerotic disease process, as well as a means for studying the effect of interventions, dietary or otherwise, on the development or regression of disease, while under controlled conditions. The effect of risk factors for atherosclerotic disease development has been evaluated in animal models, with the advantage of excluding other influences. Animal models have provided valuable information regarding diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, with extensive investigation of events occurring in the artery wall throughout these procedures. Animal models have provided information about factors contributing to disease progression and regression that apply to human situations.