Oxidized low-density lipoprotein particle (Ox-LDL)

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein particle (Ox-LDL) is not itself a therapeutic target but rather a broad term for low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles that have undergone oxidative modification of their lipid and/or protein components. Oxidation occurs via exposure to reactive oxygen species, lipoxygenase, or other oxidants, resulting in forms that differ in the degree and site of oxidation, lipid and protein composition, and resulting biological activities. In contrast to native LDL, oxidized LDL is recognized and taken up by a variety of scavenger receptors (such as SR-A, CD36, and especially LOX-1) expressed on macrophages, endothelial, and smooth muscle cells, driving foam cell formation and vascular inflammation central to atherosclerosis. Oxidized LDL is considered a reliable biomarker of cardiovascular risk and is commonly measured in clinical and experimental studies. While oxidized LDL itself cannot be directly targeted by drugs, its pathological roles are mediated by interacting protein receptors (notably LOX-1), which are considered bona fide therapeutic targets. Therefore, "oxidized low-density lipoprotein particle" as a target is imprecise—current intervention efforts focus on its receptors or the upstream oxidative pathways rather than the oxidized lipid particle itself.

Other names

Oxidized LDLOxLDLox-LDL