Endocrinology
-
Cross talks between the vascular and immune system play a critical role in vascular diseases, in particular in atherosclerosis. The osteoclast-associated receptor (OSCAR) is a regulator of osteoclast differentiation and dendritic cell maturation. Whether OSCAR plays a role in vascular biology and has an impact on atherogenic processes provoked by proinflammatory stimuli is yet unknown. ⋯ Furthermore, apolipoprotein E knockout mice fed a high-fat diet showed an enhanced aortic OSCAR expression associated with increased expression of NFATc1. In summary, OSCAR is expressed in vascular endothelial cells and is regulated by oxLDL involving NFATc1. Our data suggest that OSCAR, originally described in bone as immunological mediator and regulator of osteoclast differentiation, may be involved in cell activation and inflammation during atherosclerosis.