Researchers identify novel mechanism by which CREB3L3 protein protects against atherosclerosis
Researchers from the University of Tsukuba identify a novel mechanism by which the protein CREB3L3 protects against atherosclerosis
Tsukuba, Japan - Atherosclerosis is the result of a buildup of lipids in the inner walls of blood vessels, and is a major cause of heart disease and stroke. In a new study, researchers from the University of Tsukuba discovered a novel role for cAMP responsive element-binding protein 3 like 3 (CREB3L3) in the development of atherosclerosis and identified a mechanism by which it exhibits protective effects against atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is the detrimental result of long-time high blood lipid levels leading to a thickening of the inner walls of blood vessels through the formation of a so-called plaque. As a result, blood flow to the brain and heart may decrease over time, and once the plaque ruptures, platelets in the blood stream aggregate and clog the blood vessel as they try to repair the damage.