Pathogenic involvement of heregulin-β1 in anti-atherogenesis

► Heregulin-β1 has preventive effects on the development of atherosclerosis and restenosis. ► This peptide suppresses macrophage foam cell formation and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation. ► This peptide activates endothelial nitric oxide synthase and has anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects. ► This peptide is also a candidate biomarker for coronary artery disease. ► Heregulin-β1 is, therefore, useful for the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.