The role of ROS in CRP and atherothrombosis. CRP promotes the generation of reactive oxidant species (ROS) through binding to ECs, platelets, monocytes, and VSMC via specific Fcγ receptors. Several potential mechanisms are involved, including the inhibition of endothelial nitric oxide synthase, activation nuclear factor κB in monocytes, and release of extrinsic and intrinsic coagulation factors in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). These molecules and cell–cell interactions, in turns, may contribute to endothelial dysfunction, release of cytokines. Ox-LDL, Oxidized low-density lipoprotein; VSMC, Vascular smooth muscle cell; MCP-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1; ICAM-1, intercellular adhesion molecule-1; VCAM-1, vascular adhesion molecule-1; TF, tissue factor; TFPI, tissue factor pathway inhibitor; PAI-1, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1.