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Updated: Jan 12, 2026

Investigation of Macrophage Polarization Using Bone Marrow Derived Macrophages
10:07

Investigation of Macrophage Polarization Using Bone Marrow Derived Macrophages

Published on: June 23, 2013

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YAP-mediated macrophage polarization is involved in progression of atherosclerosis

Xin Zhang1, Xia Sun2, Qiaohong Qin1

  • 1Institute of Basic and Translational Medicine, Xi'an Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710021, China.

European Journal of Pharmacology
|November 7, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Yes-associated protein (YAP) promotes atherosclerosis by driving M1 macrophage polarization via CD36 upregulation. Inhibiting YAP in macrophages offers a potential therapeutic strategy for atherosclerosis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Immunology
  • Molecular Medicine

Background:

  • Macrophage polarization is a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis.
  • Yes-associated protein (YAP) influences macrophage polarization, but its specific role in atherosclerosis is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of YAP-mediated macrophage polarization in atherosclerosis.
  • To explore YAP as a potential therapeutic target for atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

  • Atherosclerosis was induced in mice using a high-cholesterol diet and AAV8-mPCSK9 injection.
  • Mice with macrophage-specific YAP deletion (YAPΔMɸ) and ApoE-/- mice were utilized.
  • Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated delivery of shRNA targeting YAP in macrophages was employed for therapeutic evaluation.

Main Results:

  • Macrophage-specific YAP deletion reduced atherosclerotic plaque size and promoted M2 macrophage polarization.
  • YAP overexpression reversed these effects, indicating YAP promotes atherosclerosis.
  • YAP upregulated CD36 expression via TEAD4, enhancing oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) uptake and M1 polarization.
  • Macrophage-specific YAP knockdown significantly mitigated atherosclerosis in ApoE-/- mice.

Conclusions:

  • YAP promotes atherosclerosis by inducing M1 macrophage polarization through CD36 upregulation via TEAD4.
  • Targeting YAP in macrophages presents a promising therapeutic avenue for atherosclerosis treatment.
Keywords:
AtherosclerosisCD36MacrophageYes-associated protein

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