Integrated Stress Response (ISR) Modulators in Vascular Diseases

Vascular dysfunction lies at the core of cardiovascular diseases—the leading cause of global morbidity and mortality. Despite their prevalence, therapeutic options remain limited, in part due to an incomplete understanding of the molecular mechanisms driving vascular pathology. The integrated stress response (ISR), an evolutionarily conserved signaling network activated by diverse stressors, represents a critical but underexplored mechanism in vascular biology. This review examines the dual roles of the core ISR kinases—PERK, GCN2, HRI and PKR—in vascular homeostasis and pathology, including atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and angiogenesis. We develop a conceptual framework in which the ISR functions as a context-dependent, double-edged sword: while PERK and PKR promote inflammation, apoptosis, and vascular re-modeling, GCN2 mediates protective effects. The outcome of ISR activation is shaped by cell type, stress duration and intensity, and downstream signaling bias (e.g., ATF4 vs. CHOP dominance). We further discuss pharmacological ISR modulators—including 2-aminopurine, C16, salubrinal, halofuginone, GSK2606414, and GSK2656157—which have demonstrated beneficial effects in preclinical models by suppressing inflammation, reducing apoptosis, and attenuating disease progression. Collectively, the ISR emerges as a critical regulatory node in vascular pathophysiology, and its selective, context-aware modulation represents a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention.