Moreover, <i>Ldlr<sup>-/-</sup>/Pigr<sup>-/-</sup></i> mice displayed a significantly reduced plaque size in the aortic sinus and a strong decrease in foam cells (CD68<sup>+</sup>), while no changes were observed in contractile smooth muscle cells (α-actin<sup>+</sup>) and collagen content compared to control <i>Ldlr</i> <sup>-/-</sup> mice.<h4>Conclusions</h4>Global <i>Pigr</i> deficiency decreases atherosclerosis, suggesting that PIGR blockade may have beneficial effects in vascular pathologies. The gene discussed is CD68; the disease is atherosclerosis.