血管内皮细胞DKK2在动脉粥样硬化中的作用机制研究

Objective:This study aimed to investigate the molecular mechanism by which vascular endothelial cell-derived DKK2 contributes to the development of atherosclerosis.Methods:An endothelial cell-specific DKK2 knockout mouse model was established to explore the role of endothelial DKK2 in plaque formation. In parallel, a DKK2-overexpressing endothelial cell line was constructed in vitro, followed by bulk RNA sequencing to reveal the regulatory effects and underlying mechanisms of DKK2 on endothelial cell function.Results:(1) DKK2 was highly expressed in atherosclerotic patients and plaque tissues;(2) Endothelial DKK2 promoted the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and increased plaque instability;(3) DKK2 enhanced endothelial adhesion.