Abstract & Overview
Cytokines like oncostatin M (OSM) influence inflammation and immune responses.Interleukin-6 is produced by immune, endothelial, and cardiac cells.OSM plays a role in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), demonstrating cardioprotective effects by promoting cardiac cell survival and angiogenesis.It may also reduce vascular inflammation and help prevent atherosclerosis, a major risk factor for CVD.However, under certain conditions, OSM contributes to inflammation and tissue damage.It induces inflammatory cytokines, promotes vascular smooth muscle cell migration, and destabilizes atherosclerotic plaques, thereby increasing the likelihood of myocardial infarction or stroke.Elevated OSM levels are linked to worse outcomes in patients with heart failure and pulmonary arterial hypertension.The role of OSM in CVD is complex and context-dependent.Further research is needed to clarify its mechanisms and therapeutic potential.Since CVDs result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors rather than a single cytokine, diagnostic and treatment approaches should adopt a comprehensive clinical perspective.