Oxidation-specific epitopes and immunological responses: Translational biotheranostic implications for atherosclerosis

► Oxidation-specific epitopes (OSE) are important danger associated molecular patterns. ► OSE are recognized by pattern recognition receptors of the innate immune system. ► Systemic chronic vascular inflammation is initiated by the accumulation of OSE. ► Atherosclerosis is perpetuated by maladaptive response of the immune system. ► Understanding this paradigm leads to new diagnostic approaches and modes of therapy.