DS-MB-03380 recognizes the lectin-like oxidised low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LOX-1), a 31kDa protein of the C-type lectin superfamily. This receptor mediates the recognition, internalization and degradation of oxidized LDL. It is a Type II membrane protein with a typical C-type lectin structure at the extracellular C-terminus which recognizes the ligand. LOX-1 activation by oxidized LDL causes endothelial changes such as decreased nitric oxide release and an increased expression of adhesion molecules. LOX-1 also binds activated platelets and apoptotic cells. The expression of LOX-1 is induced by proatherogenic conditions such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension and diabetes and as such appears to contribute to the pathogenesis of vascular disorders, particularly atherosclerosis. It can be cleaved by an unknown protease at the extracellular juxtamembrane region to release the soluble form (aa58-273) of LOX-1, recognized by DS-MB-03380