Plasmin promotes foam cell formation by increasing macrophage catabolism of aggregated low-density lipoprotein.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

The plasmin/plasminogen system is involved in atherosclerosis. However, the mechanisms by which it stimulates disease are not fully defined. A key event in atherogenesis is the deposition of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) on arterial walls where it is modified, aggregated, and retained. Macrophages are recruited to clear the lipoproteins, and they become foam cells. The goal of this study was to assess the role of plasmin in macrophage uptake of aggregated LDL and foam cell formation.

Approach and results

Plasminogen treatment of macrophages catabolizing aggregated LDL significantly accelerated foam cell formation. Macrophage interaction with aggregated LDL increased the surface expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor and plasminogen activator ac

SUBMITTER: Haka AS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3716867 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature