Functional interplay between liver X receptor and AMP-activated protein kinase α inhibits atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice - a new anti-atherogenic strategy.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

The liver X receptor (LXR) agonist T317 reduces atherosclerosis but induces fatty liver. Metformin activates energy metabolism by activating AMPKα. In this study, we determined if interactions between metformin and T317 could inhibit atherosclerosis without activation of hepatic lipogenesis.

Experimental approach

Apolipoprotein E-deficient mice were treated with T317, metformin or both agents, in a high-fat diet for 16 weeks. Then, samples of aorta, liver, macrophage and serum were collected to determine atherosclerotic lesions, fatty liver, lipid profiles and expression of related proteins. Techniques used included immunohistochemistry, histology, qRT-PCR and Western blot.

Key results

T317 inhibited en face and aortic root sinus lesions, and th

SUBMITTER: Ma C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5901167 | biostudies-literature | 2018 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature