Enhancement of macrophage survival and DNA synthesis by oxidized-low-density-lipoprotein (LDL)-derived lipids and by aggregates of lightly oxidized LDL

Abstract

Human atherosclerotic plaque contains a partially characterized range of normal and oxidized lipids formed mainly from free and esterified cholesterol and phospholipids, some of which can be located in macrophage-derived 'foam' cells. Oxidation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often considered as an important event leading to subsequent foam-cell development, which may also include enhanced cell survival and/or proliferation. The active component(s) in oxidized LDL (ox.LDL) causing macrophage proliferation is debated. We report here that the lipid component of ox.LDL can promote macrophage survival and DNA synthesis, the latter response showing a synergistic effect in the presence of low ..