Could anionic LDL be a ligand for RAGE and TREM2 in addition to LOX-1 and thus exacerbate lung disease and dementia?

Abstract

We recently highlighted the potential of protein glycation to generate anionic (electronegative) surfaces. We hypothesised that these anionic proteins are perceived by the innate immune system as arising from infection or damaged cell components, producing an inflammatory response within the lung involving the receptor RAGE. We now review two other pathologies linked to the innate immune response, cardiovascular disease and dementia that involve receptors LOX-1 and TREM2 respectively. Remarkable similarities in properties between RAGE, LOX-1 and TREM2 suggest that electronegative LDL may act as a pathogenic anionic ligand for all three receptors and exacerbate lung inflammation and dementia.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease; Dementia; LOX-1; Lung inflammation; RAGE; TREM2.