Mechanisms of continual efferocytosis by macrophages and its role in mitigating atherosclerosis

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Rupture-prone atheromas that give rise to myocardial infarction and stroke are characterized by the presence of a necrotic core and a thin fibrous cap. During homeostasis, cellular debris and apoptotic cells are cleared quickly through a process termed “efferocytosis”. However, clearance of apoptotic cells is significantly compromised in many chronic inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis. Emerging evidence suggests that impairments in efferocytosis drive necrotic core formation and contribute significantly to plaque vulnerability. Recently, it has been appreciated that successive rounds of efferocytosis, termed “continual efferocytosis”, is mechanistically distinct from single efferocytosis and relies heavily on the metabolism and handling of apoptotic cell-derived cargo. In vivo, selective defects in continual efferocytosis drive secondary necrosis, impair inflammation resolution, and worsen atherosclerosis. This Mini Review focuses on our current understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of continual efferocytosis and how dysregulations in this process mediate nonresolving inflammation. We will also discuss possible strategies to enhance efferocytosis when it fails.