Prevention of atherosclerosis using NADPH oxidase inhibitors

摘要

A method for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis and its related diseases in mammals is provided, in which an NADPH oxidase inhibitor is administered to mammals. The NADPH oxidase inhibitor prevents the production of reactive oxygen species upon exposure of endothelial cells to atherogenic LDL levels, resulting in decreased endocytosis and vascular hyperpermeability. Apocynin is a preferred NADPH oxidase inhibitor. Additionally, there is provided a diagnostic method for predicting the risk to an individual of atherosclerotic-related diseases.