LRG1 as a Potential Therapeutic Target in Atherosclerosis: Mechanistic Basis and Current Evidence

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Inflammation
• Molecular Medicine

Background:

• Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory arterial disease underlying major cardiovascular disorders.
• Existing therapies reduce but do not eliminate residual cardiovascular risk, necessitating novel molecular targets.
• Leucine-rich α-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1), an inflammation-inducible glycoprotein, is implicated in vascular pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biological characteristics of LRG1.
• To examine the evidence linking LRG1 to atherosclerosis.
• To discuss LRG1's potential mechanisms, therapeutic feasibility, and limitations in AS.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on LRG1 and atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of LRG1's role in macrophage polarization, endothelial function, angiogenesis, and extracellular matrix remodeling.
• Examination of clinical associations, plaque localization, and experimental models.

Main Results:

• LRG1 is associated with AS clinically and experimentally.
• LRG1 may promote pro-inflammatory macrophage polarization and disturb endothelial homeostasis.
• LRG1 influences angiogenesis and extracellular matrix remodeling, contributing to plaque changes.

Conclusions:

• LRG1 is implicated in multiple pathogenic aspects of atherosclerosis.
• LRG1 presents a promising, though not fully validated, therapeutic target for AS.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate LRG1's role and therapeutic potential in AS.