Abstract

Graphical abstract The map illustrating mechanisms associated with lncRNA HIF1A-AS2-mediated inflammation in the atherosclerosis. LncRNA HIF1A-AS2 forms a complex with USF1, which is recruited into the ATF2 promoter to elevate ATF2 expression, thus promoting the development of atherosclerotic inflammation. Meanwhile, downregulation of lncRNA HIF1A-AS2 decreases the expression of ATF2 by reducing the binding of USF1 to the ATF2 promoter regions, thereby inhibiting atherosclerotic inflammation, as reflected by decreased inflammatory factors TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 in serum and protein levels of adhesion molecules VCAM-1, ICAM-1, and MCP-1, as well as increased cell viability and reduced apoptosis in ox-LDL-induced inflammation in ECs, SMCs, and HCAECs.