IL6 and atherosclerosis: The RAAS itself is strongly connected to the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis and arterial stiffness.131–134 Ang II induces the activation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer’ of activated B cells (NFκB) and consequently the expression of IL-6, MCP-1, and TNFα thus enhancing vascular inflammation.131,135 A positive feedback loop in injured arteries creates a vicious cycle via Ang II signaling.