The mechanisms of lysophosphatidylcholine in the development of diseases

Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) is the main component of oxidatively damaged low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL). LPC originates from the cleavage of phosphatidylcholine by phospholipase A2 (PLA2). LPC plays a biological role by binding to G protein-coupled receptors and Toll-like receptors. LPC can induce the migration of lymphocytes and macrophages, increase the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, induce oxidative stress, and promote apoptosis, which can aggregate inflammation and promote the development of diseases. The effects of LPC on endothelial cells, vascular smooth muscle cells and arteries play a vital role in the progression of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases. In addition, the regulation of inflammation by LPC plays different roles in inflammatory and infectious diseases. In diabetes, LPC can induce insulin resistance. On the other hand, it can decrease blood glucose. The concentration of LPC varies in different tumours. LPC plays an important role in the invasion, metastasis and prognosis of tumours. Therefore, targeting LPC and lipid metabolism might be a potential therapeutic method for inflammation-related diseases.