Resolution of inflammation through the lipoxin and ALX/FPR2 receptor pathway protects against abdominal aortic aneurysms

Summary An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a progressive aortic dilation that may lead to rupture, which is usually lethal. This study identifies the state of failure in the resolution of inflammation by means of decreased expression of the pro-resolving receptor A lipoxin/formyl peptide receptor 2 (ALX/FPR2) in the adventitia of human AAA lesions. Mimicking this condition by genetic deletion of the murine ALX/FPR2 ortholog in hyperlipidemic mice exacerbated the aortic dilation induced by angiotensin II infusion, associated with decreased vascular collagen and increased inflammation. The authors also identified key roles of lipoxin formation through 12/15-lipoxygenase and neutrophil p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase. In conclusion, this study established pro-resolving signaling by means of the ALX/FPR2 receptor in aneurysms and vascular inflammation.