Fig. 8: Graphical abstract. Schematic showing that Nrg4 plays a protective role in atherosclerosis via ErbB4–Akt–NF-κB signaling pathway.

This work describes that BAT-derived Nrg4 serves as a potential cross-talk factor between BAT and arteries and attenuates endothelial inflammation or adhesion responses, inhibits leukocyte homing and reduces endothelial injury or atherosclerosis in a manner involving Akt–NF-κB signaling. Thus, BAT-derived Nrg4 may become a new therapeutic drug for atherosclerosis and BAT could serve as a new target for atherosclerosis.