The establishment of precise and reliable biomarker tests for the early stages of cardiovascular disease is of great importance and can be the cornerstone in the prevention of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, some biomarkers may provide important information concerning the pathogenesis of CVD or appear to be useful in risk stratification, in CVD diagnosis, or in monitoring therapy; many others may be risk factors themselves, representing therefore potential targets of therapy. The ideal biomarker should have the following characteristics: highly sensitive, specific, reliable, accessible, standardized, dependable, cost effective, and easily interpretable by clinicians. The present book focuses on the presentation and evaluation of the most promising classical and novel biochemical markers used in CVD (coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, peripheral arterial disease). The underlying pathophysiological characteristics of each biomarker, as well as potential clinical implications in daily practice are reviewed in this book.

The establishment of precise and reliable biomarker tests for the early stages of cardiovascular disease is of great importance and can be the cornerstone in the prevention of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Furthermore, some biomarkers may provide important information concerning the pathogenesis of CVD or appear to be useful in risk stratification, in CVD diagnosis, or in monitoring therapy; many others may be risk factors themselves, representing therefore potential targets of therapy. The ideal biomarker should have the following characteristics: highly sensitive, specific, reliable, accessible, standardized, dependable, cost effective, and easily interpretable by clinicians. The present book focuses on the presentation and evaluation of the most promising classical and novel biochemical markers used in CVD (coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart failure, hyperlipidemia, peripheral arterial disease). The underlying pathophysiological characteristics of each biomarker, as well as potential clinical implications in daily practice are reviewed in this book.

It is well established that the vascular endothelium consists of a single layer of endothelial cells (ECs) that lines the entire vascular system, which plays an important role in vascular homeostasis, immune and inflammatory reactions. The endothelial cells exert significant autocrine, paracrine and endocrine actions and influence smooth muscle cells, platelets and peripheral leucocytes. It represents an important barrier between the blood and the underlying interstitium and cells and has a major role in the regulation of vascular tone, producing several vasoactive mediators. This book examines up-to-date research regarding the role of endothelial functions in terms of atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations.

Coronary Artery Disease: From Biology to Clinical Practice links the most important basic concepts of atherosclerosis pathophysiology to treatment management of coronary artery disease. Comprehensive coverage starts with the basic pathophysiologic mechanisms of the disease, including molecular and genetic mechanisms, cells interaction and inflammation. In addition, sections on novel anti-atherosclerotic therapies and a thorough understanding of the recent trends in clinical management round out this comprehensive tome that is ideal for practitioners and researchers. By summarizing this novel knowledge and changes in diagnostic algorithm and treatment options, this is the perfect reference for cardiology researchers who want a volume with the most up-to-date experimental trends in the field of atherosclerosis, for cardiologists and physicians who manage patients with atherosclerotic risk factors and established coronary artery disease, and medical students who want to learn the basic concepts of atherosclerosis.