Characteristics of apolipoprotein M and its relation to atherosclerosis and diabetes

Apolipoprotein M (apoM) is a novel apolipoprotein belonging to the lipocalin protein superfamily. In humans, the apoM gene is mainly expressed in the liver and kidney, where it is highly regulated by transcription factors, hormones, and cytokines. Recent studies have shown that apoM expression is reduced in some patients with diabetes and that it has a paradoxical effect on atherosclerosis. Here, we review the progress made in understanding the structure, distribution, and regulation of apoM and its potential role in lipoprotein metabolism, diabetes, and atherosclerosis.