Atherosclerosis: Experimental Methods And Protocols

M E T H O D S I N M O L E C U L A R M E D I C I N E TM Atherosclerosis Experimental Methods and Protocols Edited by Angela F. Drew Humana Press Animal Models 1 1 Animal Models of Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis Angela F. Drew 1. Introduction 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. It is important to recognize the diversity of animal models that exist for research and the various advantages or disadvantages of each model when choosing the most appropriate model for potential studies. This chapter provides information regarding the benefits and disadvantages of diet-induced models of spontaneous atherosclerosis. Because of the sudden increase in popularity of genetically manipulated mouse models, further informati