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Figure 2. Schematic representation of the initiation of atherosclerosis by hGX sPLA2. hGX sPLA2 is found in arterial wall where it colocalizes with foam cells and dedifferentiated smooth muscle cells. These cells are potentially involved in secretion of hGX sPLA2 under an as yet unknown stimulus. Additionally, hGX sPLA2 hydrolyzes LDL releasing LPC and AA through MAPK activation. Both lipid mediators are important signaling molecules. hGX-LDL can promote: foam cell formation when taken up by monocyte derived macrophages and can induce expression of adhesion molecules thereby increasing monocyte adherence on surface of endothelial cells
