Lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) (LOX-1)

Lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) is a 50-kDa type II transmembrane glycoprotein belonging to the C-type lectin-like receptor superfamily (UniProt P78380). It is primarily expressed on vascular endothelial cells, macrophages, and smooth muscle cells, where it serves as the major receptor for oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) (PubMed: 29108915). Under physiological conditions, LOX-1 expression is low; however, it is significantly upregulated by stimuli such as pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, and hypertension (PubMed: 30634354). The binding of oxLDL to LOX-1 triggers intracellular signaling cascades, most notably the NF-κB pathway, which promotes endothelial dysfunction, foam cell formation, and plaque instability (PubMed: 25155901). Consequently, LOX-1 plays a central role in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis and is associated with acute coronary syndromes and stroke (PubMed: 21478490). Therapeutic targeting of LOX-1, through monoclonal antibodies or small molecule inhibitors, aims to mitigate vascular inflammation and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events (PubMed: 33454258).

Other names

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1OLR1CLEC8ASCARE1LOX1C-type lectin domain family 8 member A

LOX-1 targeted therapies primarily function by inhibiting the binding of oxidized LDL to the receptor's extracellular C-type lectin-like domain, thereby preventing the activation of pro-inflammatory and pro-atherogenic signaling pathways (PubMed: 29108915). Other agents, such as statins and aspirin, indirectly reduce LOX-1 activity by downregulating its expression on the cell surface through the modulation of upstream signaling or reduction of ligand availability (PubMed: 15105361).