VEGF secretion by macrophages is stimulated by lipid and protein components of OxLDL via PI3-kinase and PKCζ activation and is independent of OxLDL uptake

Oxidized LDL (OxLDL) is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of early as well as advanced stages of atherosclerosis. One possible mechanism involves local upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This study was done to define the mechanism by which OxLDL increases secretion of VEGF in macrophages.