Apolipoprotein B-100-derived epitopes (ApoB-100 epitopes)

Apolipoprotein B-100 (ApoB-100) is the primary protein component of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, playing a critical role in lipid transport and metabolism (UniProt P04114). During the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, LDL particles trapped in the arterial wall undergo oxidative modification, which alters the structure of ApoB-100 and generates neo-epitopes that are recognized by the immune system as danger signals (Fredrikson et al., 2003, Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol). These epitopes trigger a chronic pro-inflammatory response involving T cells and macrophages, which drives the progression of atherosclerotic plaques. Therapeutic strategies targeting these epitopes, such as the p210 peptide, aim to modulate this immune response through active or passive immunization. Active immunization with ApoB-100-derived peptides is designed to induce immune tolerance by promoting the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs), which secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 to suppress vascular inflammation (Schiopu et al., 2004, Circulation). Passive immunization using monoclonal antibodies like BI-204 targets these epitopes to inhibit the uptake of oxidized LDL by macrophages and reduce plaque formation (NCT00808717). This immunomodulatory approach represents a novel paradigm in cardiovascular therapy, focusing on the inflammatory component of the disease rather than just lowering lipid levels (Klingenberg et al., 2010, Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol).

Other names

ApoB-100 peptidesApolipoprotein B-100 antigenic determinantsOxidized LDL epitopesp210 peptidep45 peptide

Induction of immune tolerance through the activation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which reduces arterial wall inflammation and stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques.