The function of cathepsins B, D, and X in atherosclerosis

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Caroline F Zhao1, David M Herrington2

  • 1Yale UniversityNew Haven, CT; Section on Cardiovascular Medicine, Wake Forest School of MedicineWinston Salem, NC.

American Journal of Cardiovascular Disease
|January 13, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Cathepsins, enzymes in macrophages, promote atherosclerosis by increasing inflammation, T-lymphocyte migration, and plaque vulnerability. These enzymes are key drivers in the development of this cardiovascular disease.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology
  • Cardiovascular Research

Background:

  • Cathepsins are lysosomal proteases found in macrophages.
  • Their release can exacerbate inflammation in atherosclerosis.
  • Specific cathepsins (X, D, B) have distinct roles in disease progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the role of cathepsins in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
  • To understand how cathepsins influence inflammatory processes and plaque development.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on cathepsins in atherosclerosis.
  • Analysis of the functions of specific cathepsins (X, D, B) in cellular and matrix interactions.

Main Results:

  • Cathepsin X facilitates T-lymphocyte migration and cytokine release.
  • Cathepsin D modifies LDL, promoting macrophage uptake and foam cell formation, and regulates apoptosis.
  • Cathepsin B degrades extracellular matrix in the arterial intima.
  • Combined actions of cathepsins increase atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability.

Conclusions:

  • Cathepsins are significant contributors to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.
  • Targeting cathepsin activity may offer therapeutic strategies for atherosclerosis.

Keywords:
AtherosclerosisTNF-alphaapoptosiscathepsinlow density lipoproteinvulnerable plaque

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