Abstract: The present disclosure provides polypeptides comprising an N-terminal portion(s) of Apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB100), or functional derivatives thereof, particularly polypeptides may be capable of, e.g., inhibiting scavenger receptor-B1 (SR-B1) and/or activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1). Further provided are related polynucleotides, vectors, and pharmaceutical compositions. Methods for blocking endothelial cell uptake and/or transcytosis of lipoproteins comprising chylomicrons, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and/or lipoprotein (a) (Lp(a)) and treating atherosclerosis using the polypeptides and/or pharmaceutical compositions are also provided.

Abstract: Cardiac dysfunction during sepsis is due, at least in part, to cardiac energy deficiency. It has been discovered that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated cardiac dysfunction is prevented or treated by treatments that improve FA oxidation (FAO), despite the persistence of inflammation. The present invention relates to methods for increasing or maintaining cardiac function in a subject, by administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of an agent that increases fatty acid oxidation in the heart.

Abstract: This invention also provides a method of treating atherosclerosis in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a substance capable of binding to the amino-terminal region of apolipoprotein B, thereby treating the atherosclerosis. This invention also provides a method for inhibiting the binding of low density lipoprotein to blood vessel matrix in a subject, comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a substance capable of competing with the amino-terminal region of apolipoprotein B for binding to blood vessel matrix, thereby inhibiting the binding of low density lipoprotein to blood vessel matrix. This invention also provides a method for identifying a compound capable of ameliorating atherosclerosis. Additionally, this invention provides a kit for inhibiting the binding of low density lipoprotein to blood vessel matrix, wherein the kit comprises a substance capable of binding to the amino-terminal region of apolipoprotein B.