Inducible Expression of LOX‐1, a Novel Receptor for Oxidized LDL, in Macrophages and Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

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Abstract
Abstract: Macrophages appear to take up oxidized low density lipoprotein (Ox‐LDL) by multiple receptor‐mediated pathways. This study, therefore, has been performed to determine if LOX‐1, a novel receptor for Ox‐LDL, which was identified in vascular endothelial cells, is also expressed in macrophages. Expression of LOX‐1 can be induced after macrophage‐like differentiation in human peripheral blood monocytes as well as THP‐1 cells. Furthermore, expression of LOX‐1 in macrophages is also upregulated by an inflammatory cytokine TNF‐α, which was shown to be present in atherosclerotic arterial wall. Expression of this novel receptor LOX‐1 may play an important role in Ox‐LDL uptake and subsequent foam cell formation in macrophages.