OLR1

Oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor 1 (Ox-LDL receptor 1) also known as lectin-type oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX-1) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OLR1 gene.

Function

LOX-1 is a receptor protein which belongs to the C-type lectin superfamily. Its gene is regulated through the cyclic AMP signaling pathway. The protein binds, internalizes and degrades oxidized low-density lipoprotein. This protein may be involved in the regulation of Fas-induced apoptosis. This protein may play a role as a scavenger receptor.

Clinical significance

Mutations of the OLR1 gene have been associated with atherosclerosis, risk of myocardial infarction, and may modify the risk of Alzheimer's disease. When applied to human macrophage-derived foam cells in vitro, the dietary supplement berberine inhibits the expression of the ORL1 gene in response to oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, but this has not yet been demonstrated in a living animal or human.

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Further reading