Macrophage Liver Kinase B1 Inhibits Foam Cell Formation and Atherosclerosis

RATIONALE: LKB1 (liver kinase B1) is a serine/threonine kinase and tumor suppressor, which regulates the homeostasis of hematopoietic cells and immune responses. Macrophages transform into foam cells upon taking-in lipids. No role for LKB1 in foam cell formation has previously been reported. OBJECTIVE: We sought to establish the role of LKB1 in atherosclerotic foam cell formation. METHODS AND RESULTS: mice developed more atherosclerotic lesions in whole aorta and aortic root area, with markedly increased SRA expression in aortic root lesions. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that macrophage LKB1 reduction caused by oxidized low-density lipoprotein promotes foam cell formation and the progression of atherosclerosis.