Endothelial Estrogen Receptor-α Plays a Crucial Role in the Atheroprotective Action of 17β-Estradiol in Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor–Deficient Mice

Abstract

We demonstrate directly and for the first time that endothelial ERalpha represents a key target of the atheroprotective effect of estradiol, whereas hematopoietic ERalpha is dispensable. Selective estrogen receptor modulators that mimic the endothelial action of estradiol should now be considered in atheroprotection.