LCN2 and endothelial dysfunction: A link could exist, considering that NGAL is expressed in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques and may be involved in the development of atherosclerosis via endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and matrix degradation, and plaque instability [27], and NGAL is an earlier marker of acute kidney injury than serum creatinine [28].