Apolipoprotein M (apoM) is a member of the lipocalin superfamily and is predominantly associated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL). It was found that apoM is the chaperon to the bioactive sphingolipid, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P). Several studies have since contributed to expand the knowledge on apoM, S1P, and the apoM/S1P-complex in cardiovascular diseases. For instance, the HDL-bound apoM/S1P complex serves as a bridge between HDL and endothelial cells, maintaining a healthy endothelial barrier. Evidence indicates, however, that the apoM/S1P complex may has both protective and harmful effects on the cardiovascular system, which suggests the need for more research to understand the interplay between these molecules. This review aims to shed light on the most recent findings on apoM/S1P-signaling and its impact on endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and cardiovascular diseases. Finally, it will be discussed whether drugs that target apoM and/or S1P-signaling may be beneficial to patients with cardiovascular and inflammatory diseases.

载脂蛋白 M (apoM) 是脂质运载蛋白超家族的成员，主要与高密度脂蛋白 (HDL) 相关。发现 apoM 是生物活性鞘脂、1-磷酸鞘氨醇 (S1P) 的伴侣。此后，多项研究有助于扩展有关心血管疾病中 apoM、S1P 和 apoM/S1P 复合物的知识。例如，HDL 结合的 apoM/S1P 复合物作为 HDL 和内皮细胞之间的桥梁，维持健康的内皮屏障。然而，有证据表明 apoM/S1P 复合物可能对心血管系统具有保护作用和有害作用，这表明需要更多的研究来了解这些分子之间的相互作用。本综述旨在阐明 apoM/S1P 信号传导的最新发现及其对内皮功能障碍的影响，炎症和心血管疾病。最后，将讨论靶向 apoM 和/或 S1P 信号传导的药物是否对心血管和炎症疾病患者有益。