Oxidized LDL is considered toxic because it contributes to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, a major underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases. Unlike native LDL, oxLDL can trigger a variety of harmful biological responses. It promotes the recruitment of immune cells such as macrophages, which ingest oxLDL and become foam cells. These foam cells accumulate to form fatty streaks, the precursors to atherosclerotic plaques. Additionally, oxLDL is pro-inflammatory and can induce endothelial dysfunction, further exacerbating vascular damage.
