Apolipoprotein A-I-stimulated secretion of apolipoprotein E by human foam cell macrophages.

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Atherosclerosis is the disease which causes narrowings in arteries underlying such serious conditions as heart attack and stroke. A key component of the formation of atherosclerotic narrowings in arteries is the accumulation of fat-filled cells called foam cell macrophages. These foam cells can be stimulated to secrete a special molecule called apolipoprotein E (or apo E), which reduces the amount of atherosclerosis. We have found that we can stimulate foam cells to secrete this protein by adding to them another molecule called apo A-I. This project will investigate how apo A-I stimulates the foam cells to secrete apo E. In this way we will be able to regulate the secretion of apo E, and be able to increase its secretion. This may result in our being able to treat or prevent atherosclerosis.