Coronary collaterals—insights in molecular determinants and prognostic relevance

In the field of molecular cardiology, recently several determinants of coronary collateral circulation have been identified. Knowing these factors may aid risk-stratification and put forward targets for intervention by stimulating development of collateral blood vessels (arteriogenesis). However, prognostic importance of coronary collaterals is not yet beyond debate, and seems to be modified by the extent of atherosclerotic burden. Combining these insights is essential to increase our understanding of these mechanisms and to proceed with developing strategies for risk-stratification and therapeutic stimulation of arteriogenesis.