Apolipoprotein C3-Rich Low-Density Lipoprotein Induces Endothelial Cell Senescence via FBXO31 and Its Inhibition by Sesamol In Vitro and In Vivo

Premature endothelial senescence decreases the atheroprotective capacity of the arterial endothelium. Apolipoprotein C3 (ApoC3) delays the catabolism of triglyceride-rich particles and plays a critical role in atherosclerosis progression. FBXO31 is required for the intracellular response to DNA damage, which is a significant cause of cellular senescence. Sesamol is a natural antioxidant with cardiovascular-protective properties. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of ApoC3-rich low-density lipoprotein (AC3RL) mediated via FBXO31 on endothelial cell (EC) senescence and its inhibition by sesamol. AC3RL and ApoC3-free low-density lipoproteins (LDL) (AC3(-)L) were isolated from the plasma LDL of patients with ischemic stroke. Human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) treated with AC3RL induced EC senescence in a dose-dependent manner. AC3RL induced HAEC senescence via DNA damage. However, silencing FBXO31 attenuated AC3RL-induced DNA damage and reduced cellular senescence. Thus, FBXO31 may be a novel therapeutic target for endothelial senescence-related cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, the aortic arch of hamsters fed a high-fat diet with sesamol showed a substantial reduction in their atherosclerotic lesion size. In addition to confirming the role of AC3RL in aging and atherosclerosis, we also identified AC3RL as a potential therapeutic target that can be used to combat atherosclerosis and the onset of cardiovascular disease in humans.