Atherosclerosis and Toll-Like Receptor4 (TLR4), Lectin-Like Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein-1 (LOX-1), and Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type9 (PCSK9)

Mediators Inflamm. 2024 Feb 27:2024:5830491. doi: 10.1155/2024/5830491. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of death in the world. A significant body of evidence suggests that inflammation and various players are implicated and have pivotal roles in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is linked with different stages of atherosclerosis. This receptor is highly expressed in the endothelial cells (ECs) and atherosclerotic plaques. TLR4 activation can lead to the production of inflammatory cytokines and related responses. Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein-1 (LOX-1), an integral membrane glycoprotein with widespread expression on the ECs, is involved in atherosclerosis and has some common pathways with TLR4 in atherosclerotic lesions. In addition, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type9 (PCSK9), which is a regulatory enzyme with different roles in cholesterol uptake, is implicated in atherosclerosis. At present, TLR4, PCSK9, and LOX-1 are increasingly acknowledged as key players in the pathogenesis of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Herein, we presented the current evidence on the structure, functions, and roles of TLR4, PCSK9, and LOX-1 in atherosclerosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atherosclerosis*
  • Endothelial Cells
  • Humans
  • Lectins
  • Lipoproteins, LDL
  • Plaque, Atherosclerotic*
  • Proprotein Convertase 9
  • Proprotein Convertases
  • Scavenger Receptors, Class E
  • Subtilisin
  • Toll-Like Receptor 4

Substances

  • Subtilisin
  • PCSK9 protein, human
  • Proprotein Convertase 9
  • Toll-Like Receptor 4
  • Lipoproteins, LDL
  • Proprotein Convertases
  • Lectins
  • Scavenger Receptors, Class E
  • TLR4 protein, human