LOX-1 and ROS, inseparable factors in the process of endothelial damage

Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LOX-1) has been identified in endothelial cells as the main receptor of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL). LOX-1 is upregulated in the presence of pathological conditions including atherosclerosis, hypertension, and diabetes because it acts as a mediator of “endothelial dysfunction”. It promotes the generation of superoxide anion (O2−), the inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production and the increment of endothelial adhesiveness to monocytes. Recently, it was reported that OxLDL, binding to LOX-1, determined a significant increase in the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), suggesting the involvement of signaling pathways such as mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs).