Low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) as a modulator of the vascular inflammatory response to modified LDL

Low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) is a ubiquitously expressed cell surface receptor that mediates the internalization of more than 40 different ligands and participates in cell signaling. LRP1 plays a key pathophysiological role in the onset, development and thrombotic resolution of the atherosclerotic process due to its role in the intracellular lipid accumulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). During last years, LRP1 has also been proposed as a modulator of the inflammatory phenomenon in atherosclerosis. However, the investigations have obviated the function of LRP1 as a binding receptor of modified-lipids. In addition, the studies that analysed the relation between inflammation and LRP1 are focused on immunological cells from mice models. Whether LRP1 can respond to its modified-LDL ligands developing an inflammatory response in human VSMCs is unknown. Further investigations are, thus, necessary.