Critical role of caspase-1 in vascular inflammation and development of atherosclerosis in Western diet-fed apolipoprotein E-deficient mice

Abstract

ObjectiveRecent investigations have suggested that the inflammasome plays a role in the development of vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis; however, its precise role remains controversial. We produced double-deficient mice for apolipoprotien E (Apoe) and caspase-1 (Casp1), a key component molecule of the inflammasome, and investigated the effect of caspase-1 deficiency on vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis. Methods and resultsAtherosclerotic plaque areas in whole aortas and aortic root of Western diet (WD)-fed Apoe−/−Casp1−/− mice were significantly reduced compared to those in Apoe−/− mice. The amount of macrophages and vascular smooth muscle cells in the plaques was also reduced in Apoe−/−Casp1−/− mice. No significant differences in plasma lipid profiles and body weight change were observed between these mice. Expression of interleukin (IL)-1β in the plaques as well as plasma levels of IL-1β, IL-1α, IL-6, CCL2, and TNF-α, in Apoe−/−Casp1−/− mice were lower than those in Apoe−/− mice. In vitro experiments showed that calcium phosphate crystals induced caspase-1 activation and secretion of IL-1β and IL-1α in macrophages. ConclusionOur findings suggest that caspase-1 plays a critical role in vascular inflammation and atherosclerosis, and that modulation of caspase-1 could be a potential target for prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis.