ABSTRACT
Adhesion molecules are important in atherosclerotic plaque development. Soluble adhesion molecules that lack cytoplasm and membrane spanning domains can be found in the circulation. Th eir levels are monitored as markers of endothelial activation and studies have reported an association between some soluble adhesion molecule levels and both cardiovascular and coronary heart disease, the prevalence of which is more common in individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS). Relationships between soluble adhesion molecules, measures of obesity and other risk factors for MetS (including serum lipids, blood pressure and insulin) are adhesion molecule-and gender-specifi c. Th is may in part explain inconsistencies reported in the literature. However, robust associations have been observed between sE-selectin and measures of obesity, blood pressure, serum lipids and insulin. Relationships between sE-selectin and blood pressure appear to be strongest in young women and may relate to their menopausal status. Soluble intracellular adhesion molecule 1 levels are also increased in obese individuals
and those with MetS. Ethnic diff erences in circulating adhesion molecules and the relationship with MetS have been reported and need further investigation. Expression of cellular adhesion molecules is increased by activation of the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) pathway and this may provide a therapeutic target for disease prevention. Activation of cellular adhesion molecules may also play a role in the observed association between sleep and cardiovascular disease.
