Figure 3
Functional interaction map of differentially expressed genes and proteins in atherosclerotic samples that are involved in lipid homeostasis and caveolae system impairments. Arrow direction near gene symbols is related to its expression relative to control. Histograms represent log2 expression value relative to control gene, obtained by qRT-PCR for the indicated factors. White color bar means that gene expression was referred to GAPDH reference gene, grey to GUSB, graduated grey to HPRT1 and black to TBP. On the left side of the map is drawn the caveolae pathway with CAV-1 and CAV-2 down-regulation connected to up-regulated VEGF. It is shown that associated hormone receptors and BMPR2 are down-regulated leading to ALOX5AP and LIPE down-regulation. In the central part of the map, the up-regulation of PLTP is connected to the loss of HDL concentration and to the accumulation of VLDL particles not hydrolyzed as a consequence of LPL down-regulation. The right part of the diagram shows that clearance of LDL by MSR1 is impaired, but not that mediated by APOER. This may influence PDGF transduction which is related to SMC de-differentiation. Finally, the map connects the up-regulations of APOE, APOC and ABC transporters to the increased transcription of LXR.