The lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 as therapeutic target for atherosclerosis, inflammatory conditions and longevity.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

The lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) is a scavenger receptor and is regarded as a central element in the initiation of endothelial dysfunction and its further progression to atherosclerosis. Increasing numbers of studies suggest that therapeutic strategies to modulate LOX-1 will have a broad spectrum of applications ranging from cardiovascular diseases to longevity.

AREAS COVERED:

The dual role of LOX-1 as a culprit molecule in the process of atherosclerosis and as a danger signal in various tissues is introduced. The structure of the receptor, its ligands and its modulation by known drugs, by natural products (e.g., statins, imipramine, salicylate-based drugs, procyanidins, curcumin) and by new strategies (antisenseRNA, miRNA, pyrrole-imidazol-polyamides, LOX-1 antibodies, lipid apheresis) are described.

EXPERT OPINION:

Therapeutic approaches via transcript regulation, allowing a modulation of LOX-1, may be an easier and safer strategy than a blockade of the receptor. Considering the wide distribution of LOX-1 on different tissues, research on the mechanisms of LOX-1 modulation by drugs and natural products applying "omic"-technologies will not only allow a better understanding of the role of LOX-1 in the processes of atherosclerosis, inflammation and longevity but also support the development of specific LOX-1 modulators, avoiding the initiation of molecular mechanisms which lead to adverse events.

• Authors: Gudrun Ulrich-Merzenich, Heike Zeitler
• Journal: Expert opinion on therapeutic targets (Expert Opin Ther Targets) Vol. 17 Issue 8 Pg. 905-19 (Aug 2013) ISSN: 1744-7631 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 23738516 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Antibodies
• MicroRNAs
• RNA, Antisense
• Scavenger Receptors, Class E

Topics

• Animals
• Antibodies (pharmacology)
• Atherosclerosis (drug therapy, metabolism)
• Humans
• Inflammation (metabolism)
• Longevity
• MicroRNAs (pharmacology)
• RNA, Antisense (pharmacology)
• Scavenger Receptors, Class E (metabolism)