Transfection of TLR2- and TLR4-containing HVJ synergistically accelerated atherosclerosis and increased expressions of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, intercellular adhesion molecule 1, and MCP-1.
TLR2 and TLR4 agonists are thought to have a significant role in diseases such as atherosclerosis and DIC, but our research suggests that this is through a mechanism other than direct platelet activation or by modification of platelet responses to other agonists.
The Asp299Gly TLR4 polymorphism, which attenuates receptor signaling and diminishes the inflammatory response to gram-negative pathogens, is associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis.