Dear Colleagues,

Although well-known cardiovascular risk factors explain most of atherosclerotic risk and represent the first line of treatment (e.g., lipid lowering drugs), a significant residual risk for cardiovascular events remains. A number of new biomarkers belonging to pathophysiological events involved in the onset and progression of the atherosclerotic damage (e.g., belonging to the inflammatory, oxidative, prothrombotic, and metabolic pathways) are being continuously proposed, but currently not utilized in clinical practice. Each newly proposed biomarker must be evaluated in terms of its applicability to clinical practice (e.g., optimal cut-offs, standardization, ease of performing, costs, and value) as well as verified in specific patient cohorts to establish its significance in different clinical settings and identify patients that would benefit from its use.

We seek original research and reviews for this special issue which will focus on the role of molecules, biomarkers and pathways involved in the cardiovascular pathophysiology. Further data regarding methodological evaluation, clinical significance, ability to better stratify cardiovascular risk are also welcomed. The ultimate goal is to determine their significance as new additional/alternative therapeutic agents in order to refine and improve cardiovascular risk management.

Dr. Cristina Vassalle, Dr. Melania Gaggini and Dr. Francesca Gorini

Guest Editors