Urokinase receptor surface expression regulates monocyte migration and is associated with accelerated atherosclerosis.

Background: The urokinase receptor (uPAR) is a key regulator of pericellular proteolysis, cell adhesion and migration, all of which are fundamental processes in atherogenesis. We hypothesized that increased monocytic uPAR expression in circulation is associated with the formation and development of atherosclerosis.

Methods: A total of 42 male apoE-/- mice were ramdonly divided into high-fat (HF) diet and normal diet (n=21 per group).