Lectin-Like Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor-1 (LOX-1): A Potential Therapeutic Target in Ischemic Stroke

Stroke, the leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide, is characterized by high morbidity and disability. The lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor (LOX-1) is a scavenger receptor that promotes endothelial dysfunction by recognizing and internalizing oxidized low-density lipoproteins (ox-LDL) to induce the formation, development, and instability of atherosclerotic plaques, ultimately leading to vascular thrombosis. Previous clinical and epidemiological studies have indicated that LOX-1 plays a vital role in cerebral ischemic injury following ischemic stroke. Multiple clinical studies have shown that the genetic polymorphisms in LOX-1 are associated with susceptibility to ischemic stroke. Soluble LOX-1 (sLOX-1), a biomarker of ischemic stroke, is associated with the prognosis of ischemic stroke. This article discusses the clinical and experimental findings on LOX-1 in ischemic stroke and the development of new therapeutic strategies targeting LOX-1.