Cardiac ischemia causes release of a diverse range of immune-modulating molecules known as 'danger-associated molecular patterns' (DAMPs). Acting through Toll-like receptors on cardiomyocytes and circulating cells, DAMPs mediate ischemia–reperfusion injury, but can also contribute to the cardiac repair response. In this Review, Arslan and colleagues explain how the innate immune system responds to cardiac ischemia, and discuss whether DAMPs can be exploited therapeutically.
- Fatih Arslan
- Dominique P. de Kleijn
- Gerard Pasterkamp
