Potential Roles of SNX17, Rab11, and Rab5 in LDLR Recycling

Abstract

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Elevated levels of serum LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) represent a significant risk factor for atherosclerosis. LDLR (low-density lipoprotein receptor) plays a critical role in LDL-C uptake and clearance, with its recycling to the cell surface being essential for maintaining LDLR availability. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying LDLR homeostasis and recycling remain poorly defined. SNX (sorting nexin) proteins and Rab (Ras-associated binding protein) GTPases are key regulators of vesicle transport and endosomal sorting and are implicated in LDLR endocytosis, recycling, and subsequent cholesterol metabolism. This review aims to summarize the data on the roles of SNX17, Rab11, and Rab5 in LDLR recycling and endosomal dynamics, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets for managing dyslipidemia and associated diseases.

Keywords: atherosclerosis; cardiovascular diseases; endocytosis; hyperlipidemia; sorting nexins.