Using man-made proteins to halt the development of fatty plaques in coronary arteries

Targeting the LOX-1 (SR-E1) scavenger receptor and atherosclerosis using synthetic proteins called Affimers (Mr Barnaby Roper)

Heart attacks are caused by the development of fatty plaques in coronary arteries which can rupture, causing blood clots that block the blood supply to the heart. While a good diet and regular exercise can reduce our risk of coronary heart disease, a medicine that can prevent the development of these plaques is urgently needed. The process by which plaques are created involves the interaction of harmful LDL cholesterol with a protein called LOX-1, found on the surface of cells lining the blood vessel wall. Dr Ponnambalam believes that if this interaction could be disrupted, it may slow the disease process. He has used a new patented technology to make synthetic proteins, called Affimers, which can attach to LOX-1, interrupting its interaction with LDL. Now the Leeds team are examining the effects of treatment with Affimers in mice. If Affimers can block the interaction of LOX-1 with LDL in the body, it is hoped they could prevent, slow or stop the accumulation of fatty plaques in the blood vessel wall. This could be a new way of preventing the development of coronary heart disease.