The role of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysms.

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a progressive degenerative vascular disease characterized by structural weakening and pathological dilatation of the abdominal aortic wall. Currently, no effective pharmacological therapies are available, and treatment remains largely limited to surgical intervention. This underscores the urgent need to better understand the mechanisms driving disease development and progression. Among the cellular mediators implicated in AAA, neutrophils have emerged as key contributors to vascular inflammation and tissue destruction.

METHODS

We performed a comprehensive literature review of original research articles and relevant reviews addressing the role of neutrophils in AAA pathogenesis. Studies were identified through systematic searches of major databases, including PubMed and Google Scholar, using the keywords "abdominal aortic aneurysm", "neutrophils", "vascular inflammation", "oxidative stress", "proteases", and "extracellular matrix degradation". Both experimental and clinical studies were included to provide an integrated overview of current knowledge in the field.

RESULTS

Accumulating evidence indicates that neutrophils actively infiltrate the aortic wall during AAA development, where they release a diverse array of effector molecules, including reactive oxygen species, proteolytic enzymes, pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemotactic mediators, and granule proteins. Collectively, these mediators sustain chronic vascular inflammation, promote extracellular matrix degradation, and contribute to progressive structural weakening of the arterial wall. This review summarizes both established and emerging roles of neutrophils in AAA pathogenesis, with a particular focus on their contribution to vascular inflammation, thereby providing a conceptual framework for future diagnostic and therapeutic development.

CONCLUSION

Neutrophils are central regulators of AAA pathogenesis through their multifaceted roles in vascular inflammation and extracellular matrix remodeling. Targeting neutrophil activation and downstream inflammatory pathways may represent a promising therapeutic strategy. A deeper mechanistic understanding of neutrophil-driven processes may facilitate the development of novel biomarkers and pharmacological approaches aimed at limiting AAA progression and preventing rupture.