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Coronary perivascular adipose tissue characteristics are related to atherosclerotic plaque size and composition : A post-mortem study
Verhagen, Sandra N.; Vink, Aryan; van der Graaf, Yolanda; Visseren, Frank L. J.
Background: Perivascular adipose tissue (pvAT) may influence atherosclerotic plaque formation. We aim to determine the association between the local amount and inflammatory properties of pvAT and the size and composition of atherosclerotic plaque in the left anterior descending artery (LAD). Methods
Imaging Atherosclerotic Plaque Calcification: Translating Biology.
Bailey, Grant; Meadows, Judith; Morrison, Alan R
Calcification of atherosclerotic lesions was long thought to be an age - related, passive process, but increasingly data has revealed that atherosclerotic calcification is a more active process, involving complex signaling pathways and bone-like genetic programs. Initially, imaging of atherosclerotic calcification was limited to gross assessment of calcium burden, which is associated with total atherosclerotic burden and risk of cardiovascular mortality and of all cause mortality. More recently, sophisticated molecular imaging studies of the various processes involved in calcification have begun to elucidate information about plaque calcium composition and consequent vulnerability to rupture, leading to hard cardiovascular events like myocardial infarction. As such, there has been renewed interest in imaging calcification to advance risk assessment accuracy in an evolving era of precision medicine. Here we summarize recent advances in our understanding of the biologic process of atherosclerotic calcification as well as some of the molecular imaging tools used to assess it. PMID:27339750
Lipidome of atherosclerotic plaques from hypercholesterolemic rabbits.
Bojic, Lazar A; McLaren, David G; Shah, Vinit; Previs, Stephen F; Johns, Douglas G; Castro-Perez, Jose M
The cellular, macromolecular and neutral lipid composition of the atherosclerotic plaque has been extensively characterized. However, a comprehensive lipidomic analysis of the major lipid classes within atherosclerotic lesions has not been reported. The objective of this study was to produce a detailed framework of the lipids that comprise the atherosclerotic lesion of a widely used pre-clinical model of plaque progression. Male New Zealand White rabbits were administered regular chow supplemented with 0.5% cholesterol (HC) for 12 weeks to induce hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Our lipidomic analyses of plaques isolated from rabbits fed the HC diet, using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) and high-resolution mass spectrometry, detected most of the major lipid classes including: Cholesteryl esters, triacylglycerols, phosphatidylcholines, sphingomyelins, diacylglycerols, fatty acids, phosphatidylserines, lysophosphatidylcholines, ceramides, phosphatidylglycerols, phosphatidylinositols and phosphatidylethanolamines. Given that cholesteryl esters, triacylglycerols and phosphatidylcholines comprise greater than 75% of total plasma lipids, we directed particular attention towards the qualitative and quantitative assessment of the fatty acid composition of these lipids. We additionally found that sphingomyelins were relatively abundant lipid class within lesions, and compared the abundance of sphingomyelins to their precursor phosphatidylcholines. The studies presented here are the first approach to a comprehensive characterization of the atherosclerotic plaque lipidome.
Lipidome of Atherosclerotic Plaques from Hypercholesterolemic Rabbits
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Lazar A. Bojic
Full Text Available The cellular, macromolecular and neutral lipid composition of the atherosclerotic plaque has been extensively characterized. However, a comprehensive lipidomic analysis of the major lipid classes within atherosclerotic lesions has not been reported. The objective of this study was to produce a detailed framework of the lipids that comprise the atherosclerotic lesion of a widely used pre-clinical model of plaque progression. Male New Zealand White rabbits were administered regular chow supplemented with 0.5% cholesterol (HC for 12 weeks to induce hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Our lipidomic analyses of plaques isolated from rabbits fed the HC diet, using ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC and high-resolution mass spectrometry, detected most of the major lipid classes including: Cholesteryl esters, triacylglycerols, phosphatidylcholines, sphingomyelins, diacylglycerols, fatty acids, phosphatidylserines, lysophosphatidylcholines, ceramides, phosphatidylglycerols, phosphatidylinositols and phosphatidylethanolamines. Given that cholesteryl esters, triacylglycerols and phosphatidylcholines comprise greater than 75% of total plasma lipids, we directed particular attention towards the qualitative and quantitative assessment of the fatty acid composition of these lipids. We additionally found that sphingomyelins were relatively abundant lipid class within lesions, and compared the abundance of sphingomyelins to their precursor phosphatidylcholines. The studies presented here are the first approach to a comprehensive characterization of the atherosclerotic plaque lipidome.
Serial intravascular ultrasound assessment of changes in coronary atherosclerotic plaque dimensions and composition: an update
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Hartmann, Marc; Huisman, Jennifer; Böse, Dirk;
This manuscript reviews the use of serial intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) examination of coronary atherosclerosis in recent observational studies and randomized trials that revealed the effects of cholesterol-lowering and lipid-modifying therapies and offered novel insight into plaque progression...... and regression. We discuss the value of plaque progression-regression as complementary imaging endpoint and potential surrogate marker of cardiovascular event risk. In addition, the progress in serial assessment of coronary plaque composition and plaque vulnerability by radiofrequency-based analyses is reviewed....... Finally, we report on the evaluation of true vessel remodelling in recent serial IVUS trials and discuss the future perspective of serial invasive imaging of coronary atherosclerosis....
Atherosclerotic plaque volume and composition in symptomatic carotid arteries assessed with multidetector CT angiography; relationship with severity of stenosis and cardiovascular risk factors
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
The purpose of this study was to examine the volume and the composition of atherosclerotic plaque in symptomatic carotid arteries and to investigate the relationship between these plaque features and the severity of stenosis and the presence of cardiovascular risk factors. One hundred patients with cerebrovascular symptoms underwent CT angiography. We measured plaque volume (PV) and the relative contribution of plaque components (calcifications, fibrous tissue, and lipid) in the symptomatic artery. The contribution of different components was measured as the number of voxels within defined ranges of HU values (calcification >130 HU, fibrous tissue 60-130 HU, lipid core <60 HU). Fifty-seven patients had atherosclerotic plaque in the symptomatic carotid artery. The severity of stenosis and PV were moderately correlated. Age and smoking were independently related to PV. Patients with hypercholesterolemia had significantly less lipid and more calcium in their plaques than patients without hypercholesterolemia. Other cardiovascular risk factors were not significantly related to PV or plaque composition. Luminal stenosis of the carotid artery partly reflects the amount of atherosclerotic carotid disease. Plaque volume and plaque composition are associated with cardiovascular risk factors. (orig.)
Atherosclerotic plaque volume and composition in symptomatic carotid arteries assessed with multidetector CT angiography; relationship with severity of stenosis and cardiovascular risk factors
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Rozie, S.; Weert, T.T. de; Monye, C. de; Homburg, P.J.; Tanghe, H.L.J.; Lugt, A. van der [Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Departments of Radiology, Rotterdam (Netherlands); Dippel, D.W.J. [Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Department of Neurology, PO Box 2040, Rotterdam (Netherlands)
The purpose of this study was to examine the volume and the composition of atherosclerotic plaque in symptomatic carotid arteries and to investigate the relationship between these plaque features and the severity of stenosis and the presence of cardiovascular risk factors. One hundred patients with cerebrovascular symptoms underwent CT angiography. We measured plaque volume (PV) and the relative contribution of plaque components (calcifications, fibrous tissue, and lipid) in the symptomatic artery. The contribution of different components was measured as the number of voxels within defined ranges of HU values (calcification >130 HU, fibrous tissue 60-130 HU, lipid core <60 HU). Fifty-seven patients had atherosclerotic plaque in the symptomatic carotid artery. The severity of stenosis and PV were moderately correlated. Age and smoking were independently related to PV. Patients with hypercholesterolemia had significantly less lipid and more calcium in their plaques than patients without hypercholesterolemia. Other cardiovascular risk factors were not significantly related to PV or plaque composition. Luminal stenosis of the carotid artery partly reflects the amount of atherosclerotic carotid disease. Plaque volume and plaque composition are associated with cardiovascular risk factors. (orig.)
Mechanical model of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque rupture
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
SU; Haijun; ZHANG; Mei; ZHANG; Yun
Rupture of atherosclerotic plaque is the main trigger of acute cardiovascular events, but the mechanism of plaque rupture is still unknown. We have constructed a model describing the motion of the fibrous cap of the plaque using the theory of elastic mechanics and studied the stability of the plaque theoretically. It has shown that plaque rupture is the result of a dynamic interplay between factors intrinsic to the plaque itself and extrinsic factors. We have proposed a new mechanism of plaque rupture, given a new explanation about the nonlinear dynamic progress of atherosclerosis and suggested a method to identify the vulnerable plaques to manage atherosclerosis.
Ultrasound Tissue Characterization of Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaque
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Eugenio Picano
Full Text Available A thrombotic occlusion of the vessel fed by ruptured coronary atherosclerotic plaque may result in unstable angina, myocardial infarction or death, whereas embolization from a plaque in carotid arteries may result in transient ischemic attack or stroke. The atherosclerotic plaque prone to such clinical events is termed high-risk or vulnerable plaque, and its identification in humans before it becomes symptomatic has been elusive to date. Ultrasonic tissue characterization of the atherosclerotic plaque is possible with different techniques—such as vascular, transesophageal, and intravascular ultrasound—on a variety of arterial segments, including carotid, aorta, and coronary districts. The image analysis can be based on visual, video-densitometric or radiofrequency methods and identifies three distinct textural patterns: hypo-echoic (corresponding to lipid- and hemorrhage-rich plaque, iso- or moderately hyper-echoic (fibrotic or fibro-fatty plaque, and markedly hyperechoic with shadowing (calcific plaque. Hypoechoic or dishomogeneous plaques, with spotty microcalcification and large plaque burden, with plaque neovascularization and surface irregularities by contrast-enhanced ultrasound, are more prone to clinical complications than hyperechoic, extensively calcified, homogeneous plaques with limited plaque burden, smooth luminal plaque surface and absence of neovascularization. Plaque ultrasound morphology is important, along with plaque geometry, in determining the atherosclerotic prognostic burden in the individual patient. New quantitative methods beyond backscatter (to include speed of sound, attenuation, strain, temperature, and high order statistics are under development to evaluate vascular tissues. Although not yet ready for widespread clinical use, tissue characterization is listed by the American Society of Echocardiography roadmap to 2020 as one of the most promising fields of application in cardiovascular ultrasound imaging
Nuclear Molecular Imaging for Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques
Lee, Soo Jin; Paeng, Jin Chul
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease as well as a lipid disorder. Atherosclerotic plaque formed in vessel walls may cause ischemia, and the rupture of vulnerable plaque may result in fatal events, like myocardial infarction or stroke. Because morphological imaging has limitations in diagnosing vulnerable plaque, molecular imaging has been developed, in particular, the use of nuclear imaging probes. Molecular imaging targets various aspects of vulnerable plaque, such as inflammatory cell...
Magnetic force microscopy of atherosclerotic plaque
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Alexeeva T.A.
Full Text Available In this work by methods of scanning probe microscopy, namely by atomic force microscopy and magnetic force microscopy the fragments of atherosclerotic plaque section of different nature were investigated. The fragments of atherosclerotic vessels with elements of immature plaque were taken during the coiled artery bypass surgery by alloprosthesis. As the result of investigation we found magnetically ordered phase of endogenous origin in the fragment of solid plaque of mixed structure. This phase is presents biogenic magnetic nanoparticles and their clusters with average size characteristic of 200-400 nm.
Gene expression and 18FDG uptake in atherosclerotic carotid plaques
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Pedersen, Sune Folke; Græbe, Martin; Hag, Anne Mette Fisker;
) and an additional ipsilateral internal carotid artery stenosis of greater than 60% were recruited. FDG uptake in the carotids was determined by PET/computed tomography and expressed as mean and maximal standardized uptake values (SUVmean and SUVmax). The atherosclerotic plaques were subsequently recovered...... as SUVmax (R=0.30, Puptake. We suggest that FDG uptake is a composite indicator of macrophage load, overall inflammatory activity and collagenolytic plaque...
Mathematical models for atherosclerotic plaque evolution
Bulelzai, M.A.K.
Atherosclerosis is a disease in which low density lipoproteins (LDL) accumulate in the arterial wall due to an inflammatory response, which is triggered by the oxidation of LDL molecules that are already present in the arterial wall. Progression of atherosclerotic plaques involves many components wh
Atherosclerotic Aortic Plaques Detected by Transesophageal Echocardiography
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
赵云; 朱文玲; 倪超; 郭丽琳; 曾勇; 方理刚
Objective To evaluate the predictive value of atherosclerotic aortic plaques in coronary artery disease (CAD) Methods In 50patients with suspected coronary artery disease, transesophageal echocardiography was performed to examine their thoracic aortas 2 weeks before or after coronary angiography. In the cases of coronary angiography studied, stenosis of the coronary artery ≥ 50 % was considered to be due to coronary artery disease,whereas the thickness of the intima ≥ 1.3 mm was taken to be the criteria for the presence of an atherosclerotic aortic plaque on the transesophageal echocardiographic test. Results Among the 50 patients, 37 cases were diagnosed as CAD and 13 cases were considered to be normal. The plaques of the thoracic aorta were observed in 34cases in the CAD group and 3 cases in the normal group. The sensitivity and specificity of aortic plaques for CAD were 91.9 % and 76.9%, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values of the aortic plaques for CAD were 91.9% and 76.9%, respectively. The accuracy was 88.0%. 80 percent of the patients with single- yes sel disease had thoracic aortic plaques, 92 percent of the patients with two-vessel disease and 100 percent of the patients with three-vessel disease had thoracic aortic plaques. There was a significant difference in the thickness of aortic intimas between the normal group and the CAD group. Conclusions Detectingatherosclerotic plaques in the thoracic aorta with transesophageal echocardiography may be of great value in predicting the presence and extent of coronary artery disease.
Virtual histology study of atherosclerotic plaque composition in patients with stable angina and acute phase of acute coronary syndromes without ST segment elevation
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Ivanović Miloš
Full Text Available Introduction. Rupture of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques is the cause of most acute coronary syndromes (ACS. Postmortem studies which compared stable coronary lesions and atherosclerotic plaques in patients who have died because of ACS indicated high lipid-core content as one of the major determinants of plaque vulnerability. Objective. Our primary goal was to assess the potential relations of plaque composition determined by IVUS-VH (Intravascular Ultrasound - Virtual Histology in patients with stable angina and subjects in acute phase of ACS without ST segment elevation. Methods. The study comprised of 40 patients who underwent preintervention IVUS examination. Tissue maps were reconstructed from radio frequency data using IVUS-VH software. Results. We analyzed 53 lesions in 40 patients. Stable angina was diagnosed in 24 patients (29 lesions, while acute phase of ACS without ST elevation was diagnosed in 16 patients (24 lesions. In the patients in acute phase of ACS without ST segment elevation IVUS-VH examination showed a significantly larger area of the necrotic core at the site of minimal lumen area and a larger mean of the necrotic core volume in the entire lesion comparing to stable angina subjects (1.84±0.90 mm2 vs. 0.96±0.69 mm2; p<0.001 and 20.94±15.79 mm3 vs. 11.54±14.15 mm3; p<0.05 respectively. Conclusion. IVUS-VH detected that the necrotic core was significantly larger in atherosclerotic lesions in patients in acute phase of ACS without ST elevation comparing to the stable angina subjects and that it could be considered as a marker of plaque vulnerability.
HMGB1 is associated with atherosclerotic plaque composition and burden in patients with stable coronary artery disease.
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Martin Andrassy
Full Text Available OBJECTIVES: The role of inflammation in atherosclerosis is widely appreciated. High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1, an injury-associated molecular pattern molecule acting as a mediator of inflammation, has recently been implicated in the development of atherosclerosis. In this study, we sought to investigate the association of plasma HMGB1 with coronary plaque composition in patients with suspected or known coronary artery disease (CAD. DESIGN: HMGB1, high sensitive troponin T (hsTnT and high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP were determined in 152 consecutive patients with suspected or known stable CAD who underwent clinically indicated 256-slice coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA. Using CCTA, we assessed 1 coronary calcification, 2 non-calcified plaque burden and 3 the presence of vascular remodeling in areas of non-calcified plaques. RESULTS: Using univariate analysis, hsCRP, hsTnT and HMGB1 as well as age, and atherogenic risk factors were associated with non-calcified plaque burden (r = 0.21, p = 0.009; r = 0.48, p<0.001 and r = 0.34, p<0.001, respectively. By multivariate analysis, hsTnT and HMGB1 remained independent predictors of the non-calcified plaque burden (r = 0.48, p<0.01 and r = 0.34, p<0.001, respectively, whereas a non-significant trend was noticed for hs-CRP (r = 0.21, p = 0.07. By combining hsTnT and HMGB1, a high positive predictive value for the presence of non-calcified and remodeled plaque (96% and 77%, respectively was noted in patients within the upper tertiles for both biomarkers, which surpassed the positive predictive value of each marker separately. CONCLUSIONS: In addition to hs-TnT, a well-established cardiovascular risk marker, HMGB1 is independently associated with non-calcified plaque burden in patients with stable CAD, while the predictive value of hs-CRP is lower. Complementary value was observed for hs-TnT and HMGB1 for the prediction of complex coronary plaque.
High shear stress induces atherosclerotic vulnerable plaque formation through angiogenesis.
Wang, Yi; Qiu, Juhui; Luo, Shisui; Xie, Xiang; Zheng, Yiming; Zhang, Kang; Ye, Zhiyi; Liu, Wanqian; Gregersen, Hans; Wang, Guixue
Rupture of atherosclerotic plaques causing thrombosis is the main cause of acute coronary syndrome and ischemic strokes. Inhibition of thrombosis is one of the important tasks developing biomedical materials such as intravascular stents and vascular grafts. Shear stress (SS) influences the formation and development of atherosclerosis. The current review focuses on the vulnerable plaques observed in the high shear stress (HSS) regions, which localizes at the proximal region of the plaque intruding into the lumen. The vascular outward remodelling occurs in the HSS region for vascular compensation and that angiogenesis is a critical factor for HSS which induces atherosclerotic vulnerable plaque formation. These results greatly challenge the established belief that low shear stress is important for expansive remodelling, which provides a new perspective for preventing the transition of stable plaques to high-risk atherosclerotic lesions. PMID:27482467
Tensile and compressive properties of fresh human carotid atherosclerotic plaques.
LENUS (Irish Health Repository)
Maher, Eoghan
Accurate characterisation of the mechanical properties of human atherosclerotic plaque is important for our understanding of the role of vascular mechanics in the development and treatment of atherosclerosis. The majority of previous studies investigating the mechanical properties of human plaque are based on tests of plaque tissue removed following autopsy. This study aims to characterise the mechanical behaviour of fresh human carotid plaques removed during endarterectomy and tested within 2h. A total of 50 radial compressive and 17 circumferential tensile uniaxial tests were performed on samples taken from 14 carotid plaques. The clinical classification of each plaque, as determined by duplex ultrasound is also reported. Plaques were classified as calcified, mixed or echolucent. Experimental data indicated that plaques were highly inhomogeneous; with variations seen in the mechanical properties of plaque obtained from individual donors and between donors. The mean behaviour of samples for each classification indicated that calcified plaques had the stiffest response, while echolucent plaques were the least stiff. Results also indicated that there may be a difference in behaviour of samples taken from different anatomical locations (common, internal and external carotid), however the large variability indicates that more testing is needed to reach significant conclusions. This work represents a step towards a better understanding of the in vivo mechanical behaviour of human atherosclerotic plaque.
Atherosclerotic Plaque Destabilization in Mice: A Comparative Study.
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Helene Hartwig
Full Text Available Atherosclerosis-associated diseases are the main cause of mortality and morbidity in western societies. The progression of atherosclerosis is a dynamic process evolving from early to advanced lesions that may become rupture-prone vulnerable plaques. Acute coronary syndromes are the clinical manifestation of life-threatening thrombotic events associated with high-risk vulnerable plaques. Hyperlipidemic mouse models have been extensively used in studying the mechanisms controlling initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. However, the understanding of mechanisms leading to atherosclerotic plaque destabilization has been hampered by the lack of proper animal models mimicking this process. Although various mouse models generate atherosclerotic plaques with histological features of human advanced lesions, a consensus model to study atherosclerotic plaque destabilization is still lacking. Hence, we studied the degree and features of plaque vulnerability in different mouse models of atherosclerotic plaque destabilization and find that the model based on the placement of a shear stress modifier in combination with hypercholesterolemia represent with high incidence the most human like lesions compared to the other models.
Imaging Modalities to Identity Inflammation in an Atherosclerotic Plaque
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive, multifocal arterial wall disease caused by local and systemic inflammation responsible for major cardiovascular complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. With the recent understanding that vulnerable plaque erosion and rupture, with subsequent thrombosis, rather than luminal stenosis, is the underlying cause of acute ischemic events, there has been a shift of focus to understand the mechanisms that make an atherosclerotic plaque unstable or vulnerable to rupture. The presence of inflammation in the atherosclerotic plaque has been considered as one of the initial events which convert a stable plaque into an unstable and vulnerable plaque. This paper systemically reviews the noninvasive and invasive imaging modalities that are currently available to detect this inflammatory process, at least in the intermediate stages, and discusses the ongoing studies that will help us to better understand and identify it at the molecular level
Imaging Modalities to Identity Inflammation in an Atherosclerotic Plaque
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Sunny Goel
Full Text Available Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive, multifocal arterial wall disease caused by local and systemic inflammation responsible for major cardiovascular complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. With the recent understanding that vulnerable plaque erosion and rupture, with subsequent thrombosis, rather than luminal stenosis, is the underlying cause of acute ischemic events, there has been a shift of focus to understand the mechanisms that make an atherosclerotic plaque unstable or vulnerable to rupture. The presence of inflammation in the atherosclerotic plaque has been considered as one of the initial events which convert a stable plaque into an unstable and vulnerable plaque. This paper systemically reviews the noninvasive and invasive imaging modalities that are currently available to detect this inflammatory process, at least in the intermediate stages, and discusses the ongoing studies that will help us to better understand and identify it at the molecular level.
Effects of the PPARγ agonist pioglitazone on coronary atherosclerotic plaque composition and plaque progression in non-diabetic patients: a double-center, randomized controlled VH-IVUS pilot-trial.
Christoph, Marian; Herold, Joerg; Berg-Holldack, Anna; Rauwolf, Thomas; Ziemssen, Tjalf; Schmeisser, Alexander; Weinert, Sönke; Ebner, Bernd; Said, Samir; Strasser, Ruth H; Braun-Dullaeus, Ruediger C
Despite the advanced therapy with statins, antithrombotics and antihypertensive agents, the medical treatment of coronary artery disease is less than optimal. Therefore, additional therapeutic anti-atherosclerotic options are desirable. This VH-IVUS study (intravascular ultrasonography with virtual histology) was performed to assess the potential anti-atherogenic effect of the PPARγ agonist pioglitazone in non-diabetic patients. A total of 86 non-culprit atherosclerotic lesions in 54 patients with acute coronary syndrome were observed in a 9-month prospective, double-blind, and placebo-controlled IVUS study. Patients were randomized to receive either 30 mg pioglitazone (Pio) or placebo (Plac). As primary efficacy parameter, the change of relative plaque content of necrotic core was determined by serial VH-IVUS analyses. Main secondary endpoint was the change of total plaque volume. In contrast to placebo, in the pioglitazone-treated group, the relative plaque content of necrotic core decreased significantly (Pio -1.3 ± 6.9% vs. Plac +2.6 ± 6.5%, p < 0.01). In comparison to the placebo group, the plaques in pioglitazone-treated patients showed significantly greater reduction of the total plaque volume (Pio -16.1 ± 26.4 mm3 vs. Plac -1.8 ± 30.9 mm3, p = 0.02). Treatment with a PPARγ agonist in non-diabetic patients results in a coronary artery plaque stabilization on top of usual medical care.
Spectral CT of carotid atherosclerotic plaque: comparison with histology
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
To distinguish components of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque by imaging their energy response using spectral CT and comparing images with histology. After spectroscopic calibration using phantoms of plaque surrogates, excised human carotid atherosclerotic plaques were imaged using MARS CT using a photon-processing detector with a silicon sensor layer and microfocus X-ray tube (50 kVp, 0.5 mA) at 38-μm voxel size. The plaques were imaged, sectioned and re-imaged using four threshold energies: 10, 16, 22 and 28 keV; then sequentially stained with modified Von Kossa, Perl's Prussian blue and Oil-Red O, and photographed. Relative Hounsfield units across the energies were entered into a linear algebraic material decomposition model to identify the unknown plaque components. Lipid, calcium, iron and water-like components of plaque have distinguishable energy responses to X-ray, visible on spectral CT images. CT images of the plaque surface correlated very well with histological photographs. Calcium deposits (>1,000 μm) in plaque are larger than iron deposits (<100 μm), but could not be distinguished from each other within the same voxel using the energy range available. Spectral CT displays energy information in image form at high spatial resolution, enhancing the intrinsic contrast of lipid, calcium and iron within atheroma. (orig.)
Evaluation of recombinant endostatin in the treatment of atherosclerotic plaques and neovascularization in rabbits*
Mao, Wei; Kong, Jing; Dai, Jin; Huang, Zhao-quan; Wang, Dong-zhi; Ni, Gui-bao; Chen, Min-Li
Objective: Atherosclerotic plaques and neovascularization play an important role in the course of coronary atherosclerosis. This study evaluated the effect of recombinant endostatin on experimental atherosclerotic plaques and neovascularization in rabbits. Methods: Eighteen healthy male rabbits were divided into three groups: control group, atherosclerotic model group, and recombinant endostatin treated group. The atherosclerotic model was established via a high-cholesterol diet after balloon...
Chemokine Receptor 7 Knockout Attenuates Atherosclerotic Plaque Development
Luchtefeld, Maren; Grothusen, Christina; Gagalick, Andreas; Jagavelu, Kumaravelu; Schuett, Harald; Tietge, Uwe J. F.; Pabst, Oliver; Grote, Karsten; Drexler, Helmut; Foerster, Reinhold; Schieffer, Bernhard
Background-Atherosclerosis is a systemic inflammatory disease characterized by the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Both innate immunity and adaptive immunity contribute to atherogenesis, but the mode of interaction is poorly understood. Chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) is critically involved in the
Atherosclerotic plaque detection by confocal Brillouin and Raman microscopies
Meng, Zhaokai; Basagaoglu, Berkay; Yakovlev, Vladislav V.
Atherosclerosis, the development of intraluminal plaque, is a fundamental pathology of cardiovascular system and remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Biomechanical in nature, plaque rupture occurs when the mechanical properties of the plaque, related to the morphology and viscoelastic properties, are compromised, resulting in intraluminal thrombosis and reduction of coronary blood flow. In this report, we describe the first simultaneous application of confocal Brillouin and Raman microscopies to ex-vivo aortic wall samples. Such a non-invasive, high specific approach allows revealing a direct relationship between the biochemical and mechanical properties of atherosclerotic tissue.
Optical detection of structural changes in human carotid atherosclerotic plaque
Korol, R. M.; Canham, P. B.; Finlay, H. M.; Hammond, R. R.; Quantz, M.; Ferguson, G. G.; Liu, L. Y.; Lucas, A. R.
Background: Arterial bifurcations are commonly the sites of developing atherosclerotic plaque that lead to arterial occlusions and plaque rupture (myocardial infarctions and strokes). Laser induced fluorescence (LIF) spectroscopy provides an effective nondestructive method supplying spectral information on extracellular matrix (ECM) protein composition, specifically collagen and elastin. Purpose: To investigate regional differences in the ECM proteins -- collagen I, III and elastin in unstable plaque by analyzing data from laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy of human carotid endarterectomy specimens. Methods: Gels of ECM protein extracts (elastin, collagen types I & III) were measured as reference spectra and internal thoracic artery segments (extra tissue from bypass surgery) were used as tissue controls. Arterial segments and the endarterectomy specimens (n=21) were cut into 5mm cross-sectional rings. Ten fluorescence spectra per sampling area were then recorded at 5 sites per ring with argon laser excitation (357nm) with a penetration depth of 200 μm. Spectra were normalized to maximum intensity and analyzed using multiple regression analysis. Tissue rings were fixed in formalin (within 3 hours of surgery), sectioned and stained with H&E or Movat's Pentachrome for histological analysis. Spectroscopy data were correlated with immunohistology (staining for elastin, collagen types I, III and IV). Results: Quantitative fluorescence for the thoracic arteries revealed a dominant elastin component on the luminal side -- confirmed with immunohistology and known artery structure. Carotid endarterectomy specimens by comparison had a significant decrease in elastin signature and increased collagen type I and III. Arterial spectra were markedly different between the thoracic and carotid specimens. There was also a significant elevation (pdetected in the carotid specimens.
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy to Characterize Inflammatory Atherosclerotic Plaques
Yu, Fei; Dai, Xiaohu; Beebe, Tyler; Hsiai, Tzung
Despite advances in diagnosis and therapy, atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. Predicting metabolically active atherosclerotic lesions has remained an unmet clinical need. We hereby developed an electrochemical strategy to characterize the inflammatory states of high-risk atherosclerotic plaques. Using the concentric bipolar microelectrodes, we sought to demonstrate distinct Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopic (EIS) measurements for unstable atherosclerotic plaques that harbored active lipids and inflammatory cells. Using equivalent circuits to simulate vessel impedance at the electrode-endoluminal tissue interface, we demonstrated specific electric elements to model working and counter electrode interfaces as well as the tissue impedance. Using explants of human coronary, carotid, and femoral arteries at various Stary stages of atherosclerotic lesions (n = 15), we performed endoluminal EIS measurements (n = 147) and validated with histology and immunohistochemistry. We computed the vascular tissue resistance using the equivalent circuit model and normalized the resistance to the lesion-free regions. Tissue resistance was significantly elevated in the oxLDL-rich thin-cap atheromas (1.57±0.40, n = 14, p 0.05). Hence, we demonstrate that the application of EIS strategy was sensitive to detect fibrous cap oxLDL-rich lesions and specific to distinguish oxLDL-absent fibroatheroma. PMID:21959227
Raised soluble P-selectin moderately accelerates atherosclerotic plaque progression.
Woollard, Kevin J; Lumsden, Natalie G; Andrews, Karen L; Aprico, Andrea; Harris, Emma; Irvine, Jennifer C; Jefferis, Ann-maree; Fang, Lu; Kanellakis, Peter; Bobik, Alex; Chin-Dusting, Jaye P F
Soluble P-selectin (sP-selectin), a biomarker of inflammatory related pathologies including cardiovascular and peripheral vascular diseases, also has pro-atherosclerotic effects including the ability to increase leukocyte recruitment and modulate thrombotic responses in vivo. The current study explores its role in progressing atherosclerotic plaque disease. Apoe-/- mice placed on a high fat diet (HFD) were given daily injections of recombinant dimeric murine P-selectin (22.5 µg/kg/day) for 8 or 16 weeks. Saline or sE-selectin injections were used as negative controls. In order to assess the role of sP-selectin on atherothrombosis an experimental plaque remodelling murine model, with sm22α-hDTR Apoe-/- mice on a HFD in conjunction with delivery of diphtheria toxin to induce targeted vascular smooth muscle apoptosis, was used. These mice were similarly given daily injections of sP-selectin for 8 or 16 weeks. While plaque mass and aortic lipid content did not change with sP-selectin treatment in Apoe-/- or SM22α-hDTR Apoe-/- mice on HFD, increased plasma MCP-1 and a higher plaque CD45 content in Apoe-/- HFD mice was observed. As well, a significant shift towards a more unstable plaque phenotype in the SM22α-hDTR Apoe-/- HFD mice, with increased macrophage accumulation and lower collagen content, leading to a lower plaque stability index, was observed. These results demonstrate that chronically raised sP-selectin favours progression of an unstable atherosclerotic plaque phenotype.
Directional spatial frequency analysis of lipid distribution in atherosclerotic plaque
Korn, Clyde; Reese, Eric; Shi, Lingyan; Alfano, Robert; Russell, Stewart
Atherosclerosis is characterized by the growth of fibrous plaques due to the retention of cholesterol and lipids within the artery wall, which can lead to vessel occlusion and cardiac events. One way to evaluate arterial disease is to quantify the amount of lipid present in these plaques, since a higher disease burden is characterized by a higher concentration of lipid. Although therapeutic stimulation of reverse cholesterol transport to reduce cholesterol deposits in plaque has not produced significant results, this may be due to current image analysis methods which use averaging techniques to calculate the total amount of lipid in the plaque without regard to spatial distribution, thereby discarding information that may have significance in marking response to therapy. Here we use Directional Fourier Spatial Frequency (DFSF) analysis to generate a characteristic spatial frequency spectrum for atherosclerotic plaques from C57 Black 6 mice both treated and untreated with a cholesterol scavenging nanoparticle. We then use the Cauchy product of these spectra to classify the images with a support vector machine (SVM). Our results indicate that treated plaque can be distinguished from untreated plaque using this method, where no difference is seen using the spatial averaging method. This work has the potential to increase the effectiveness of current in-vivo methods of plaque detection that also use averaging methods, such as laser speckle imaging and Raman spectroscopy.
Clinical Study of Acoustic Densitometry Technique in Detecting Atherosclerotic Plaque
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Objective: To investigate the effect of Quyu Xiaoban Capsule (祛瘀消斑, QYXB) on the regressive treatment of atherosclerosis (AS) with acoustic densitometry (AD) technique. Methods: Eighty patients with AS were randomly divided into two groups, trial group was treated with QYXB and conventional medicine, and control group was treated with conventional medicine alone. Normal arterial wall and different types of atherosclerotic plaques were detected with AD technique before treatment and 10 months later. Resuits: The corrected averages in intimal echo intensity (AIIc%) were elevated in both groups but without significant difference, AIIc% of fatty plaques were increased in both groups and the value after treatment was significantly higher than that of pre-treatment in the trial group (68.12±5.54 vs 61.43±5.37, P<0.05).The increment rate of AIIc% in trial group was significantly higher than that in control group (10.9±5.1% vs2.5±5.5%, P<0.05). Conclusion: QYXB can stabilize the atherosclerotic plaque by increasing its acoustic density. Acoustic densitometry technique can differentiate the different histological plaques and monitor the histological changes of plaques during treatment.
Progression and regression of the atherosclerotic plaque.
de Feyter, P J; Vos, J; Deckers, J W
In animals in which atherosclerosis was induced experimentally (by a high cholesterol diet) regression of the atherosclerotic lesion was demonstrated after serum cholesterol was reduced by cholesterol- lowering drugs or a low-fat diet. Whether regression of advanced coronary arterly lesions also takes place in humans after a similar intervention remains conjectural. However, several randomized studies, primarily employing lipid-lowering intervention or comprehensive changes in lifestyle, have demonstrated, using serial angiograms, that it is possible to achieve less progression, arrest or even (small) regression of atherosclerotic lesions. The lipid-lowering trials (NHBLI, CLAS, POSCH, FATS, SCOR and STARS) studied 1240 symptomatic patients, mostly men, with moderately elevated cholesterol levels and moderately severe angiographic-proven coronary artery disease. A variety of lipid-lowering drugs, in addition to a diet, were used over an intervention period ranging from 2 to 3 years. In all but one study (NHBLI), the progression of coronary atherosclerosis was less in the treated group, but regression was induced in only a few patients. The overall relative risk of progression of coronary atherosclerosis was 0 x 62 and 2 x 13, respectively. The induced angiographic differences were small and did not produce any significant haemodynamic benefit. The most important result was tht the disease process could be stabilized in the majority of patients. Three comprehensive lifestyle change trials (the Lifestyle Heart study, STARS and the Heidelberg Study) studied 183 patients, who were subjected to stress management, and/or intensive exercise, in addition to a low fat diet, over a period ranging from 1 to 3 years. All three trials demonstrated less progression, and more regression with overall relative risks of 0 x 40 and 2 x 35 respectively, in the intervention groups. Angiographic trials demonstrated that retardation or arrest of coronary atherosclerosis was possible
Atherosclerotic plaque component segmentation in combined carotid MRI and CTA data incorporating class label uncertainty
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
van Engelen, Arna; Niessen, Wiro J.; Klein, Stefan;
Atherosclerotic plaque composition can indicate plaque vulnerability. We segment atherosclerotic plaque components from the carotid artery on a combination of in vivo MRI and CT-angiography (CTA) data using supervised voxelwise classification. In contrast to previous studies the ground truth...... in the ground truth used for training: I) soft labels are created by Gaussian blurring of the original binary histology segmentations to reduce weights at the boundaries between components, and are weighted by the estimated registration accuracy of the histology and in vivo imaging data (measured by overlap......), II) samples are weighted by the local contour distance of the lumen and outer wall between histology and in vivo data, and III) 10% of each class is rejected by Gaussian outlier rejection. Classification was evaluated on the relative volumes (% of tissue type in the vessel wall) for calcified...
Zooming in on the genesis of atherosclerotic plaque microcalcifications.
Ruiz, Jessica L; Weinbaum, Sheldon; Aikawa, Elena; Hutcheson, Joshua D
Epidemiological evidence conclusively demonstrates that calcium burden is a significant predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality; however, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. These observations have challenged the previously held notion that calcification serves to stabilize the atherosclerotic plaque. Recent studies have shown that microcalcifications that form within the fibrous cap of the plaques lead to the accrual of plaque-destabilizing mechanical stress. Given the association between calcification morphology and cardiovascular outcomes, it is important to understand the mechanisms leading to calcific mineral deposition and growth from the earliest stages. We highlight the open questions in the field of cardiovascular calcification and include a review of the proposed mechanisms involved in extracellular vesicle-mediated mineral deposition. PMID:27040360
Imaging of atherosclerotic plaques by optical coherence tomography (OCT)
Perree, Jop; van Leeuwen, Ton G. J. M.; Pasterkamp, Gerard; Izatt, Joseph A.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is an imaging technique that measures the intensity of light back scattered from sub- surface tissue structures with a very high resolution. This report describes the qualitative and quantitative correlation of OCT and histology measurements for plaque presence and thickness of caps overlying atherosclerotic plaques, respectively. Imaging of samples (n equals 12) was performed from the luminal side with 1300 nm 1 mW or 10 mW light sources, with coherence lengths of 21 and 16 micrometer, respectively. Samples were histologically processed and stained with H&E, EvG and picro-sirius red (PSR) and histological and OCT images were matched. For each sample, the presence of plaque was assessed and the minimal cap thickness was measured by means of histomorphometry and OCT. We found a sensitivity of 6/6 and a specificity of 5/6 for detection of plaques with OCT. Quantitative analysis showed a strong and significant correlation between OCT and histology cap thickness measurements (R2 equals 0.968). Thus, OCT is a sensitive method for detection of plaques, is quantitatively comparable to histology and holds promise as a high-resolution diagnostic tool for visualization of plaque cap thickness.
F-18 fluoride positron emission tomography-computed tomography for detecting atherosclerotic plaques
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Kang, Won Jun [Dept. of Nuclear Medicine, Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)
A large number of major cardiovascular events occur in patients due to minimal or some lumen narrowing of the coronary artery. Recent biological studies have shown that the biological composition or vulnerability of the plaque is more critical for plaque rupture compared to the degree of stenosis. To overcome the limitations of anatomical images, molecular imaging techniques have been suggested as promising imaging tools in various fields. F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG), which is widely used in the field of oncology, is an example of molecular probes used in atherosclerotic plaque evaluation. FDG is a marker of plaque macrophage glucose utilization and inflammation, which is a prominent characteristic of vulnerable plaque. Recently, F-18 fluoride has been used to visualize vulnerable plaque in clinical studies. F-18 fluoride accumulates in regions of active microcalcification, which is normally observed during the early stages of plaque formation. More studies are warranted on the accumulation of F-18 fluoride and plaque formation/vulnerability; however, due to high specific accumulation, low background activity, and easy accessibility, F-18 fluoride is emerging as a promising non-invasive imaging probe to detect vulnerable plaque.
In silico analyses of metagenomes from human atherosclerotic plaque samples
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Mitra, Suparna; Drautz-Moses, Daniela I; Alhede, Morten;
BACKGROUND: Through several observational and mechanistic studies, microbial infection is known to promote cardiovascular disease. Direct infection of the vessel wall, along with the cardiovascular risk factors, is hypothesized to play a key role in the atherogenesis by promoting an inflammatory...... response leading to endothelial dysfunction and generating a proatherogenic and prothrombotic environment ultimately leading to clinical manifestations of cardiovascular disease, e.g., acute myocardial infarction or stroke. There are many reports of microbial DNA isolation and even a few studies of viable...... a challenge. RESULTS: To investigate microbiome diversity within human atherosclerotic tissue samples, we employed high-throughput metagenomic analysis on: (1) atherosclerotic plaques obtained from a group of patients who underwent endarterectomy due to recent transient cerebral ischemia or stroke. (2...
Safrole-2',3'-oxide induces atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability in apolipoprotein E-knockout mice.
Su, Le; Zhang, Haiyan; Zhao, Jing; Zhang, Shangli; Zhang, Yun; Zhao, Baoxiang; Miao, Junying
Safrole-2',3'-oxide (SFO) is the major electrophilic metabolite of safrole (4-allyl-1, 2-methylenedioxybenzene), a natural plant constituent found in essential oils of numerous edible herbs and spices and in food containing these herbs, such as pesto sauce, cola beverages and bologna sausages. The effects of SFO in mammalian systems, especially the cardiovascular system, are little known. Disruption of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory disease, is the main cause of cardiovascular events. In this study, we investigated SFO-induced atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability (possibility of rupture) in apolipoprotein E-knockout (apoE(-/-)) mice. Lipid area in vessel wall reached 59.8% in high dose SFO (SFO-HD) treated group, which is only 31.2% in control group. SFO treatment changed the lesion composition to an unstable phenotype, increased the number of apoptotic cells in plaque and the endothelium in plaques was damaged after SFO treatment. Furthermore, compared with control groups, the plaque endothelium level of p75(NTR) was 3-fold increased and the liver level of p75(NTR) was 17.4-fold increased by SFO-HD. Meanwhile, the serum level of KC (a functional homolog of IL-8 and the main proinflammatory alpha chemokine in mice) in apoE(-/-) mice was up to 357pg/ml in SFO-HD treated group. Thus, SFO contributes to the instability of atherosclerotic plaque in apoE(-/-) mice through activating p75(NTR) and IL-8 and cell apoptosis in plaque.
Morphological study of atherosclerotic plaque and its application in vulnerability evaluation
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
The relationships between the morphological characteristics and the vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaque were analyzed theoretically and several suggestions were proposed to evaluate the plaque vulnerability. Validated by animal experiments and clinical studies, the theoretical results were confirmed.
Molecular Imaging of Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques in Animal Models.
Gargiulo, Sara; Gramanzini, Matteo; Mancini, Marcello
Atherosclerosis is characterized by intimal plaques of the arterial vessels that develop slowly and, in some cases, may undergo spontaneous rupture with subsequent heart attack or stroke. Currently, noninvasive diagnostic tools are inadequate to screen atherosclerotic lesions at high risk of acute complications. Therefore, the attention of the scientific community has been focused on the use of molecular imaging for identifying vulnerable plaques. Genetically engineered murine models such as ApoE(-/-) and ApoE(-/-)Fbn1C1039G(+/-) mice have been shown to be useful for testing new probes targeting biomarkers of relevant molecular processes for the characterization of vulnerable plaques, such as vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-1, VEGFR-2, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, P-selectin, and integrins, and for the potential development of translational tools to identify high-risk patients who could benefit from early therapeutic interventions. This review summarizes the main animal models of vulnerable plaques, with an emphasis on genetically altered mice, and the state-of-the-art preclinical molecular imaging strategies. PMID:27618031
Molecular Imaging of Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques in Animal Models
Gargiulo, Sara; Gramanzini, Matteo; Mancini, Marcello
Atherosclerosis is characterized by intimal plaques of the arterial vessels that develop slowly and, in some cases, may undergo spontaneous rupture with subsequent heart attack or stroke. Currently, noninvasive diagnostic tools are inadequate to screen atherosclerotic lesions at high risk of acute complications. Therefore, the attention of the scientific community has been focused on the use of molecular imaging for identifying vulnerable plaques. Genetically engineered murine models such as ApoE−/− and ApoE−/−Fbn1C1039G+/− mice have been shown to be useful for testing new probes targeting biomarkers of relevant molecular processes for the characterization of vulnerable plaques, such as vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-1, VEGFR-2, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, P-selectin, and integrins, and for the potential development of translational tools to identify high-risk patients who could benefit from early therapeutic interventions. This review summarizes the main animal models of vulnerable plaques, with an emphasis on genetically altered mice, and the state-of-the-art preclinical molecular imaging strategies. PMID:27618031
Effective risk stratification in patients with moderate cardiovascular risk using albuminuria and atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid arteries
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Greve, Sara V; Blicher, Marie K; Sehestedt, Thomas;
/mmol in men/women. The composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, and hospitalization for ischemic heart disease was recorded (n = 229). RESULTS: Both elevated UACR (P = 0.002) and atherosclerotic plaques (P ..., Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE), and Framingham risk score (FRS) groups. Subclinical vascular damage was defined as carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity at least 12 m/s, and carotid atherosclerotic plaques or urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) at least 90th percentile of 0.73/1.06 mg...
Numerical observer for atherosclerotic plaque classification in spectral computed tomography.
Lorsakul, Auranuch; Fakhri, Georges El; Worstell, William; Ouyang, Jinsong; Rakvongthai, Yothin; Laine, Andrew F; Li, Quanzheng
Spectral computed tomography (SCT) generates better image quality than conventional computed tomography (CT). It has overcome several limitations for imaging atherosclerotic plaque. However, the literature evaluating the performance of SCT based on objective image assessment is very limited for the task of discriminating plaques. We developed a numerical-observer method and used it to assess performance on discrimination vulnerable-plaque features and compared the performance among multienergy CT (MECT), dual-energy CT (DECT), and conventional CT methods. Our numerical observer was designed to incorporate all spectral information and comprised two-processing stages. First, each energy-window domain was preprocessed by a set of localized channelized Hotelling observers (CHO). In this step, the spectral image in each energy bin was decorrelated using localized prewhitening and matched filtering with a set of Laguerre-Gaussian channel functions. Second, the series of the intermediate scores computed from all the CHOs were integrated by a Hotelling observer with an additional prewhitening and matched filter. The overall signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were obtained, yielding an overall discrimination performance metric. The performance of our new observer was evaluated for the particular binary classification task of differentiating between alternative plaque characterizations in carotid arteries. A clinically realistic model of signal variability was also included in our simulation of the discrimination tasks. The inclusion of signal variation is a key to applying the proposed observer method to spectral CT data. Hence, the task-based approaches based on the signal-known-exactly/background-known-exactly (SKE/BKE) framework and the clinical-relevant signal-known-statistically/background-known-exactly (SKS/BKE) framework were applied for analytical computation of figures of merit (FOM). Simulated data of a
Numerical observer for atherosclerotic plaque classification in spectral computed tomography.
Lorsakul, Auranuch; Fakhri, Georges El; Worstell, William; Ouyang, Jinsong; Rakvongthai, Yothin; Laine, Andrew F; Li, Quanzheng
Spectral computed tomography (SCT) generates better image quality than conventional computed tomography (CT). It has overcome several limitations for imaging atherosclerotic plaque. However, the literature evaluating the performance of SCT based on objective image assessment is very limited for the task of discriminating plaques. We developed a numerical-observer method and used it to assess performance on discrimination vulnerable-plaque features and compared the performance among multienergy CT (MECT), dual-energy CT (DECT), and conventional CT methods. Our numerical observer was designed to incorporate all spectral information and comprised two-processing stages. First, each energy-window domain was preprocessed by a set of localized channelized Hotelling observers (CHO). In this step, the spectral image in each energy bin was decorrelated using localized prewhitening and matched filtering with a set of Laguerre-Gaussian channel functions. Second, the series of the intermediate scores computed from all the CHOs were integrated by a Hotelling observer with an additional prewhitening and matched filter. The overall signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were obtained, yielding an overall discrimination performance metric. The performance of our new observer was evaluated for the particular binary classification task of differentiating between alternative plaque characterizations in carotid arteries. A clinically realistic model of signal variability was also included in our simulation of the discrimination tasks. The inclusion of signal variation is a key to applying the proposed observer method to spectral CT data. Hence, the task-based approaches based on the signal-known-exactly/background-known-exactly (SKE/BKE) framework and the clinical-relevant signal-known-statistically/background-known-exactly (SKS/BKE) framework were applied for analytical computation of figures of merit (FOM). Simulated data of a
Association of carotid atherosclerotic plaque features with acute ischemic stroke: A magnetic resonance imaging study
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Zhao, Huilin [Department of Radiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127 (China); Zhao, Xihai [Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua University School of Medicine, Beijing 100084 (China); Liu, Xiaosheng; Cao, Ye [Department of Radiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127 (China); Hippe, Daniel S.; Sun, Jie [Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109 (United States); Li, Feiyu [Department of Radiology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing 100034 (China); Xu, Jianrong, E-mail: email@example.com [Department of Radiology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200127 (China); Yuan, Chun [Center for Biomedical Imaging Research, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua University School of Medicine, Beijing 100084 (China); Department of Radiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109 (United States)
Background and purpose: It remains unclear whether direct vessel wall imaging can identify carotid high-risk lesions in symptomatic subjects and whether carotid plaque characteristics are more effective indicators for cerebral infarct severity than stenosis. This study sought to determine the associations of carotid plaque characteristics by MR imaging with stenosis and acute cerebral infarct (ACI) sizes on diffusion weighted imaging (DWI). Materials and methods: One hundred and fourteen symptomatic patients underwent carotid and brain MRI. ACI volume was determined from symptomatic internal carotid artery territory on DWI images. Ipsilateral carotid plaque morphological and compositional characteristics, and stenosis were also determined. The relationships between carotid plaque characteristics, stenosis and ACIs size were then evaluated. Results: In carotid arteries with 30–49% stenosis, 86.7% and 26.7% were found to have lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC) and intraplaque hemorrhage, respectively. Furthermore, 45.8% of carotid arteries with 0–29% stenosis developed LRNCs. Carotid morphological measurements, such as % wall volume, and the LRNC size were significantly associated with ipsilateral ACIs volume before and after adjustment for significant demographic factors (age and LDL) or stenosis in patients with carotid plaque (all p < 0.05). Conclusions: A substantial number of high-risk plaques characterized by vessel wall imaging exist in carotid arteries with lower grade stenosis. In addition, carotid plaque characteristics, particularly the % wall volume and LRNC size, are independently associated with cerebral infarction as measured by DWI lesions. Our findings indicate that characterizing atherosclerotic plaque by MR vessel wall imaging might be useful for stratification of plaque risk and infarction severity.
Relationship between interleukin-18 levels and characterization of atherosclerotic plaque and percutaneous coronary intervention
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Weihua Li; Kaimin Lin; Lei Gao; Rong Wu; Qiang Xie; Yongjun Guo; Shuhui Dai
Background lnterleuldn-18(IL- 18) plays a key role in the development,progression and outcome of coronary artery disease and its complications.However,its variability relation to the characterization of atherosclerotic plaque and percutaneous coronary intervention are still unknown.Methods Fifty four patients with coronary artery disease [22 patients with stable angina (SA) and 32 patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS)] were enrolled in this study.All patients underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).The stability of the plaques at the criminal vessels was assessed with analogical IVUS.Serum IL-18 levels were measured at the time points of 5 rain before PCI,and Oh,6h,24h and lmonth after PCI in all patients.Results ACS group consisted mainly of lipidic unstable plaques while SA group of fibrous stable plaques.Moreover,compared with those in SA group,eccentricity index (EI) and remodeling index (RI) were significantly higher in ACS group.Positive remodeling was seen in ACS group while negative or no remodeling in SA group.Further,serum IL-18 levels were significantly elevated in patients with ACS than those in SA group before PCI,increased at Oh,6h,24h after PCI (P<0.05)and were not significant different at 1 month after PCI from those before PCI.Conclusions There is significant difference in the composition and structural characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques between ACS and UA groups.PCI triggersd and enhances the inflammatory response in a short time.Serum levels of IL- 18 are the predictors of progression of unstable plaque in atherosclerosis.Post-operative complications of PCI might be reduced by inhibiting IL- 18.(J Geriatr Cardiol 2008;5:21-24)
Circulating Leukocyte and Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque Telomere Length Interrelation, Association With Plaque Characteristics, and Restenosis After Endarterectomy
Huzen, Jardi; Peeters, Wouter; de Boer, Rudolf A.; Moll, Frans L.; Wong, Liza S. M.; Codd, Veryan; de Kleijn, Dominique P. V.; de Smet, Bart J. G. L.; van Veldhuisen, Dirk J.; Samani, Nilesh J.; van Gilst, Wiek H.; Pasterkamp, Gerard; van der Harst, Pim
Objective-Shorter leukocyte telomeres are associated with atherosclerosis and predict future heart disease. The goal of the present study was to determine whether leukocyte telomere length is related to atherosclerotic plaque telomere length and whether it is associated with plaque characteristics o
Serial changes of coronary atherosclerotic plaque: Assessment with 64-slice multi-detector computed tomography
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Evaluate the progression of coronary atherosclerotic plaque during follow-up, and its association with cardiovascular risk factors. Fifty-six atherosclerotic patients with plaque were enrolled in this retrospective study. Patient's plaque was detected on repeat 64-slice multidetector CT scans with a mean interval of 25 ± 10 months changes in calcified and non-calcified plaque volumes and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed over time. Absolute and relative changes in plaque volume were compared, and the association between rapid progression and cardiovascular risk factors was determined. Diameter of the stenosis, length, calcified and non-calcified lesion plaque volumes increased significantly on follow-up CT. Absolute and relative annual changes in plaque volumes were significantly greater in non-calcified plaque (median, 22.7 mm3, 90.4%) than in calcified plaque (median, 0.7 mm3, 0%). Obesity, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and low high-density lipoprotein were significant predictors of progression of non-calcified plaque. Progression of calcified plaque was not associated with any cardiovascular risk factors. Coronary plaque volume increased significantly on follow-up CT. The rate of progression is related to non-calcified plaque than to calcified plaque. Cardiovascular risk factors are independently associated with the rapid progression of non-calcified plaque volume, but not associated with the progression of calcified plaque.
Serial changes of coronary atherosclerotic plaque: Assessment with 64-slice multi-detector computed tomography
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Kim, Eun Young; Kang, Doo Kyoung; Sun, Joo Sung; Choi, So Yeon [Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon (Korea, Republic of)
Evaluate the progression of coronary atherosclerotic plaque during follow-up, and its association with cardiovascular risk factors. Fifty-six atherosclerotic patients with plaque were enrolled in this retrospective study. Patient's plaque was detected on repeat 64-slice multidetector CT scans with a mean interval of 25 ± 10 months changes in calcified and non-calcified plaque volumes and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed over time. Absolute and relative changes in plaque volume were compared, and the association between rapid progression and cardiovascular risk factors was determined. Diameter of the stenosis, length, calcified and non-calcified lesion plaque volumes increased significantly on follow-up CT. Absolute and relative annual changes in plaque volumes were significantly greater in non-calcified plaque (median, 22.7 mm{sup 3}, 90.4%) than in calcified plaque (median, 0.7 mm{sup 3}, 0%). Obesity, smoking, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and low high-density lipoprotein were significant predictors of progression of non-calcified plaque. Progression of calcified plaque was not associated with any cardiovascular risk factors. Coronary plaque volume increased significantly on follow-up CT. The rate of progression is related to non-calcified plaque than to calcified plaque. Cardiovascular risk factors are independently associated with the rapid progression of non-calcified plaque volume, but not associated with the progression of calcified plaque.
Overexpression of TGF-ß1 in macrophages reduces and stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE-deficient mice.
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Kurt Reifenberg
Full Text Available Although macrophages represent the hallmark of both human and murine atherosclerotic lesions and have been shown to express TGF-ß1 (transforming growth factor β1 and its receptors, it has so far not been experimentally addressed whether the pleiotropic cytokine TGF-ß1 may influence atherogenesis by a macrophage specific mechanism. We developed transgenic mice with macrophage specific TGF-ß1 overexpression, crossed the transgenics to the atherosclerotic ApoE (apolipoprotein E knock-out strain and quantitatively analyzed both atherosclerotic lesion development and composition of the resulting double mutants. Compared with control ApoE(-/- mice, animals with macrophage specific TGF-ß1 overexpression developed significantly less atherosclerosis after 24 weeks on the WTD (Western type diet as indicated by aortic plaque area en face (p<0.05. Reduced atherosclerotic lesion development was associated with significantly less macrophages (p<0.05 after both 8 and 24 weeks on the WTD, significantly more smooth muscle cells (SMCs; p<0.01 after 24 weeks on the WTD, significantly more collagen (p<0.01 and p<0.05 after 16 and 24 weeks on the WTD, respectively without significant differences of inner aortic arch intima thickness or the number of total macrophages in the mice pointing to a plaque stabilizing effect of macrophage-specific TGF-ß1 overexpression. Our data shows that macrophage specific TGF-ß1 overexpression reduces and stabilizes atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE-deficient mice.
Plaque Rupture and Thrombosis: the Value of the Atherosclerotic Rabbit Model in Defining the Mechanism.
Abela, Oliver G; Ahsan, Chowdhury H; Alreefi, Fadi; Salehi, Negar; Baig, Imran; Janoudi, Abed; Abela, George S
Persistent inflammation and mechanical injury associated with cholesterol crystal accretion within atherosclerotic plaques typically precedes plaque disruption (rupture and/or erosion) and thrombosis-often the terminal events of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. To elucidate the mechanisms of these events, the atherosclerotic rabbit model provides a unique and powerful tool that facilitates studies of atherogenesis starting with plaque buildup to eventual disruption. Examination of human coronary arteries obtained from patients who died with myocardial infarction demonstrates evidence of cholesterol crystals perforating the plaque cap and intimal surface of the arterial wall that can lead to rupture. These observations were made possible by omitting ethanol, an avid lipid solvent, from the tissue processing steps. Importantly, the atherosclerotic rabbit model exhibits a similar pathology of cholesterol crystals perforating the intimal surface as seen in ruptured human plaques. Local and systemic inflammatory responses in the model are also similar to those observed in humans. The strong parallel between the rabbit and human pathology validates the atherosclerotic rabbit model as a predictor of human pathophysiology of atherosclerosis. Thus, the atherosclerotic rabbit model can be used with confidence to evaluate diagnostic imaging and efficacy of novel anti-atherosclerotic therapy. PMID:27091328
Identification of atherosclerotic plaque components with intravascular ultrasound elastography in vivo: a Yucatan pig study.
Korte, C.L. de; Sierevogel, M.J.; Mastik, F.; Strijder, C.; Schaar, J.A.; Velema, E.; Pasterkamp, G.; Serruys, P.W.; Steen, A.F.W. van der
BACKGROUND: Intravascular ultrasound elastography assesses the local strain of the atherosclerotic vessel wall. In the present study, the potential to identify different plaque components in vivo was investigated. METHODS AND RESULTS: Atherosclerotic external iliac and femoral arteries (n=24) of 6 Y
Autophagy in Atherosclerosis: A Phenomenon Found in Human Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Huihui Liu; Yongjun Cao; Tong Tong; Jijun Shi; Yanlin Zhang; Yaping Yang; Chunfeng Liu
Background:Autophagy has been found to be involved in animal and cell models ofatherosclerosis,but to date,it lacks general observation in human atherosclerotic plaques.Here,we investigated autophagy in smooth muscle cells (SMCs),endothelial cells (ECs),and macrophages in human atherosclerotic plaques via transmission electron microscopy (TEM),western blotting,and immunohistochemistry analysis.Methods:The histopathologic morphology of these plaques was observed via hematoxylin and eosin staining.The ultrastructural morphology of the SMCs,ECs,and macrophages in these plaques was observed via TEM.The localization ofmicrotubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (MAP 1-LC3),a relatively special maker ofautophagy,in plaques was observed by double fluorescent immunochemistty and western blotting.Results:All of these human atherosclerotic plaques were considered advanced and unstable in histologically observation.By double fluorescent immunochemistry,the expression of LC3-Ⅱ increased in the SMCs of the fibrous cap,the macrophages,and the microvascular ECs of the plaque shoulders.The protein level of LC3-Ⅱ by western blotting significantly increased in plaques compared with normal controls.In addition,TEM observation of plaques revealed certain features of autophagy in SMCs,ECs,and macrophages including the formation of myelin figures,vacuolization,and the accumulation of inclusions in the cytosol.These results indicate that autophagy is activated in SMCs,ECs,and macrophages in human advanced atherosclerotic plaques.Conclusions:Our study is to demonstrate the existence of autophagy in human atherosclerotic plaques by different methods,which may contribute to the development of pharmacological approaches to stabilize vulnerable and rupture-prone lesions.
Development of a near infrared fluorescence catheter: operating characteristics and feasibility for atherosclerotic plaque detection
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We present a one-dimensional optical fibre-based imaging catheter specifically developed for the atherosclerotic plaque detection of emerging novel near infrared fluorescence imaging agents. We show that femtomole amounts of fluorochromes can be detected, especially in the presence of a blood-free medium. We further studied the catheter responses for a wide range of laser powers and biologically relevant concentrations of fluorochrome. In vitro tissue-like phantoms and human carotid plaque specimen measurements further demonstrate the feasibility of atherosclerotic plaque detection
Genesis and growth of extracellular-vesicle-derived microcalcification in atherosclerotic plaques
Hutcheson, Joshua D.; Goettsch, Claudia; Bertazzo, Sergio; Maldonado, Natalia; Ruiz, Jessica L.; Goh, Wilson; Yabusaki, Katsumi; Faits, Tyler; Bouten, Carlijn; Franck, Gregory; Quillard, Thibaut; Libby, Peter; Aikawa, Masanori; Weinbaum, Sheldon; Aikawa, Elena
Clinical evidence links arterial calcification and cardiovascular risk. Finite-element modelling of the stress distribution within atherosclerotic plaques has suggested that subcellular microcalcifications in the fibrous cap may promote material failure of the plaque, but that large calcifications can stabilize it. Yet the physicochemical mechanisms underlying such mineral formation and growth in atheromata remain unknown. Here, by using three-dimensional collagen hydrogels that mimic structural features of the atherosclerotic fibrous cap, and high-resolution microscopic and spectroscopic analyses of both the hydrogels and of calcified human plaques, we demonstrate that calcific mineral formation and maturation results from a series of events involving the aggregation of calcifying extracellular vesicles, and the formation of microcalcifications and ultimately large calcification areas. We also show that calcification morphology and the plaque's collagen content--two determinants of atherosclerotic plaque stability--are interlinked.
[Changes in proinflammatory cytokine and destructive metalloproteinase levels during formation of unstable atherosclerotic plaque].
Ragino, Iu I; Cherniavskiĭ, A M; Polonskaia, Ia V; Volkov, A M; Semaeva, E V; Tsymbal, S Iu; Voevoda, M I
We studied men with coronary atherosclerosis without acute coronary syndrome and determined typical valuable parameters of inflammatory (tumor necrotic factor, antagonist of receptor to interleukin [IL] 1, IL 6, IL 8, monocytes chemotactic protein 1, endothelial monocytes activating protein II), and destructive (matrix metalloproteinase [MMP] 3, MMP 7, MMP 9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase) processes at consecutive stages of formation of coronary atherosclerotic plaque: "normal intimal tissue --> lipid stain --> early stable plaque --> unstable vulnerable plaque stable plaque with fibrosis", and in 3 types of unstable plaques (lipid type, inflammatory erosive type, necrotic type). PMID:19656094
Uptake of 68gallium in atherosclerotic plaques in LDLR-/-ApoB100/100 mice
Silvola, Johanna MU; Laitinen, Iina; Sipilä, Henri J; Laine, V Jukka O; Leppänen, Pia; Ylä-Herttuala, Seppo; Knuuti, Juhani; Roivainen, Anne
Background Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of artery wall characterized by infiltration of monocytes into subendothelial space and their differentiation into macrophages. Since rupture-prone plaques commonly contain high amounts of activated macrophages, imaging of the macrophage content may provide a useful tool for the evaluation of plaque vulnerability. The purpose of this study was to explore the uptake of 68gallium (68Ga) in atherosclerotic plaques in mice. Methods Upta...
Direct association between diet and the stability of human atherosclerotic plaque
Isabel Gonçalves; Elisavet Andersson Georgiadou; Sören Mattsson; Göran Skog; Luís Pedro; José Fernandes e Fernandes; Nuno Dias; Gunnar Engström; Jan Nilsson; Kristina Stenström
Mediterranean diet has been suggested to explain why coronary heart disease mortality is lower in southern than northern Europe. Dietary habits can be revealed by isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) measurement of carbon (δ(13)C) and nitrogen (δ(15)N) in biological tissues. To study if diet is associated with human plaque stability, atherosclerotic plaques from carotid endarterectomy on 56 patients (21 Portuguese and 35 Swedish) were analysed by IRMS and histology. Plaque components affect...
Evaluation of the early enhancement of coronary atherosclerotic plaque by contrast-enhanced MR angiography
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Purpose: To evaluate the early enhancement of coronary atherosclerotic plaque using contrast-enhanced MR angiography (CE-MRA) and investigate the association between unstable angina pectoris (UAP) and early enhancement of the plaque. Methods: Forty-one patients presenting with angina pectoris and demonstrating single-vessel disease with non-calcified plaque and significant coronary stenosis (≥50%) on CTA were consecutively recruited for coronary CE-MRA. Contrast-to-noise ratio of the culprit plaque guided by CTA was measured on a cross-sectional multi-planar reconstruction image of the plaque on both pre- and post-CE-MRA. A 50% increasing of CNR was defined as plaque enhancement. The association between early enhancement of the plaques and UAP was analyzed. Results: Thirty-seven non-calcified plaques with significant coronary stenosis were detected in the 37 patients on MRA. 4 subjects were excluded because coronary atherosclerotic plaques were inadequate for identification on MRA. Of the 37 patients, 18 patients had UAP and other 19 patients presented stable angina pectoris (SAP). Of the 37 plaques on CE-MRA, 13 and 24 plaques presented early enhancement and no enhancement, respectively. Of the 13 early-enhanced plaques, 11 (85%) and 2 (15%) were found in the patients with UAP and SAP, respectively (p < 0.01). Of the 37 patients, 11 (61%) with UAP and 2 (11%) with SAP had early-enhanced plaques, respectively (p < 0.01). Conclusion: CE-MRA allows detection of early enhancement of coronary atherosclerotic plaque. The early enhancement is common in unstable angina and could be a sign of vulnerability.
Adhesive strength of atherosclerotic plaque in a mouse model depends on local collagen content and elastin fragmentation.
Wang, Ying; Johnson, John A; Fulp, Abigail; Sutton, Michael A; Lessner, Susan M
Atherosclerotic plaque rupture is a major cause of myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. The adhesive strength of the bond between a plaque and the vascular wall, measured as local energy release rate, G, is used for quantitative plaque stability estimation. We tested the hypothesis that adhesive strength varies with plaque composition. Matrix metalloproteinase-12 (MMP12) deficiency was previously reported to alter lesion composition. To estimate G values, peeling experiments are performed on aortic plaques from apolipoprotein E knockout (apoE KO) and apoE MMP12 double knockout (DKO) male mice after 8 months on high-fat diet. For plaques in apoE KO and apoE MMP12 DKO mice, experimental values for G differ significantly (paveraging 19.2J/m(2) and 12.1J/m(2), respectively. Histology confirms that plaques delaminate along their interface with the underlying internal elastic lamina (IEL) in both genotypes. Quantitative image analysis of stained tissue sections demonstrates a significant positive correlation (p<0.05) between local collagen content of lesions and G values in both genotypes, indicating that adhesive strength of plaques depends on local collagen content. Surprisingly, macrophage content of aortic plaques is neither significantly correlated with G values nor significantly different between genotypes. The IEL underlying plaques in apoE KO mice is significantly more fragmented (number of breaks and length of breaks) than in apoE MMP12 DKO mice, suggesting that elastin fragmentation also influences adhesion strength of plaques. Overall, our results suggest that plaques adhere more strongly to the underlying IEL in apoE KO mice than in apoE MMP12 DKO mice. PMID:23261250
The nitroxide radical TEMPOL prevents obesity, hyperlipidaemia, elevation of inflammatory cytokines, and modulates atherosclerotic plaque composition in apoE(-/-) mice
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Kim, Christine H. J.; Mitchell, James B.; Bursill, Christina A.;
cholesterol, inflammatory cytokines and markers (interleukin-6, IL-6; monocyte-chemotactic protein, MCP-1; myeloperoxidase, MPO; serum amyloid A, SAA; adiponectin; leptin). Plaques in the aortic sinus were analysed for area, and content of collagen, lipid, macrophages and smooth muscle cells. RESULTS: High...... fat feeding resulted in marked increases in body mass and plasma lipid levels. Dietary TEMPOL decreased both parameters. In the high-fat-fed mice significant elevations in plasma lipid levels and the inflammatory markers IL-6, MCP-1, MPO, SAA were detected, along with an increase in leptin...
16S rRNA-based detection of oral pathogens in coronary atherosclerotic plaque
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Mahendra Jaideep
Full Text Available Background: Atherosclerosis develops as a response of the vessel wall to injury. Chronic bacterial infections have been associated with an increased risk for atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease. The ability of oral pathogens to colonize in coronary atheromatous plaque is well known. Aim: The aim of this study was to detect the presence of Treponema denticola, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Campylobacter rectus in the subgingival and atherosclerotic plaques of patients with coronary artery disease. Materials and Methods: Fifty-one patients in the age group of 40-80 years with coronary artery disease were selected for the study. DNA was extracted from the plaque samples. The specific primers for T. denticola, C. rectus and P. gingivalis were used to amplify a part of the 16S rRNA gene by polymerase chain reaction. Statistical Analysis Used: Chi-square analysis, correlation coefficient and prevalence percentage of the microorganisms were carried out for the analysis. Results: Of the 51 patients, T. denticola, C. rectus and P. gingivalis were detected in 49.01%, 21.51% and 45.10% of the atherosclerotic plaque samples. Conclusions: Our study revealed the presence of bacterial DNA of the oral pathogenic microorganisms in coronary atherosclerotic plaques. The presence of the bacterial DNA in the coronary atherosclerotic plaques in significant proportion may suggest the possible relationship between periodontal bacterial infection and genesis of coronary atherosclerosis.
Effect of rosuvastatin on inflammatory factors and carotid atherosclerotic plaque in patients with acute ischemic stroke
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YAN Jun
Full Text Available Carotid atherosclerosis is closely related with ischemic stroke occurrence, development and recurrence. This study aims to make an evaluation of the effects of rosuvastatin on inflammatory factors, serum lipid and carotid atherosclerotic plaque in patients with acute ischemic stroke. In this study, 98 patients with acute ischemic stroke and carotid atherosclerosis were given oral administration of rosuvastatin calcium (10 mg once every night, and the course of treatment was 6 months. After treatment, the changes of serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α and blood lipid were measured, as well as carotid atherosclerotic intima-media thickness (IMT and the calculation of carotid atherosclerotic plaque score. According to the examination results, after 6 months' treatment with rosuvastatin, serum hs-CRP, TNF-α, total cholesterol (TC, triglyceride (TG and low-density lipoprotein cholestrol (LDL-C decreased significantly (P < 0.01, for all, while high-density lipoprotein cholestrol (HDL-C increased significantly (P < 0.01; the total number of plaque reduced, while the number of stable plaque increased (P < 0.05; carotid artery IMT and carotid artery plaque score decreased significantly (P < 0.05. There were significant differences between before and after treatment. The results of this study show that rosuvastatin plays a role in anti-inflammation and alleviates the degree of carotid atherosclerotic plaque.
Characteristics of carotid atherosclerotic plaques of chronic lipid apheresis patients as assessed by In Vivo High-Resolution CMR - a comparative analysis
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Grimm Jochen M
Full Text Available Abstract Background Components of carotid atherosclerotic plaques can reliably be identified and quantified using high resolution in vivo 3-Tesla CMR. It is suspected that lipid apheresis therapy in addition to lowering serum lipid levels also has an influence on development and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the influence of chronic lipid apheresis (LA on the composition of atherosclerotic carotid plaques. Methods 32 arteries of 16 patients during chronic LA-therapy with carotid plaques and stenosis of 1–80% were matched according to degree of stenosis with 32 patients, who had recently suffered an ischemic stroke. Of these patients only the asymptomatic carotid artery was analyzed. All patients underwent black-blood 3 T CMR of the carotids using parallel imaging and dedicated surface coils. Cardiovascular risk factors were recorded. Morphology and composition of carotid plaques were evaluated. For statistical evaluation Fisher's Exact and unpaired t-test were used. A p-value Results Patients in the LA-group were younger (63.5 vs. 73.9. years, p2, p Conclusion Results of this study suggest that, despite a severer risk profile for cardiovascular complications in LA-patients, chronic LA is associated with significantly lower lipid content in carotid plaques compared to plaques of patients without LA with similar degrees of stenosis, which is characteristic of clinically stable plaques.
Effects of Mechanical Properties and Atherosclerotic Artery Size on Biomechanical Plaque Disruption - Mouse versus Human
Riou, Laurent M.; Broisat, Alexis; Ghezzi, Catherine; Finet, Gérard; Rioufol, Gilles; Gharib, Ahmed M.; Pettigrew, Roderic I.; Ohayon, Jacques
Mouse models of atherosclerosis are extensively being used to study the mechanisms of atherosclerotic plaque development and the results are frequently extrapolated to humans. However, major differences have been described between murine and human atherosclerotic lesions and the determination of similarities and differences between these species has been largely addressed recently. This study takes over and extends previous studies performed by our group and related to the biomechanical chara...
Ex vivo coronary atherosclerotic plaque characterization with multi-detector-row CT
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Multi-detector-row CT angiography (CTA) is a new technology that allows for non-invasive investigation of coronary atherosclerosis in patients. The relation between the morphology of atherosclerotic plaques assessed by CTA and histopathology is unknown. We investigated 11 human cadaver heart specimens. A mixture of methylcellulose and CT contrast media was injected into the coronary arteries to achieve in-vivo-like contrast enhancement within the coronary artery lumen. The morphologic pattern of atherosclerotic lesions found on CTA images and the tissue attenuation of non-calcified plaques were determined. After CTA imaging, atherosclerotic lesions in the coronary arteries were macroscopically identified and characterized histopathologically according to American Heart Association criteria. A total of 50 and 40 lesions were found macroscopically and by CTA, respectively. Thirty-three lesions could have been compared directly. The sensitivity of CTA compared with macroscopic detection of atheromas, fibroatheromas, fibrocalcified, and calcified lesions was 73, 70, 86, and 100%, respectively. The mean CT attenuation of predominantly lipid-rich and fibrous-rich plaques was significantly different (47±9 and 104±28 HU, respectively; p<0.01). Atherosclerotic coronary plaques detected by CTA may represent different stages of coronary atherosclerosis. The tissue attenuation of non-calcified plaques may allow for assessment of their predominant component. (orig.)
Human macrophage foam cells degrade atherosclerotic plaques through cathepsin K mediated processes
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Barascuk, Natasha; Skjøt-Arkil, Helene; Register, Thomas C;
BACKGROUND: Proteolytic degradation of Type I Collagen by proteases may play an important role in remodeling of atherosclerotic plaques, contributing to increased risk of plaque rupture.The aim of the current study was to investigate whether human macrophage foam cells degrade the extracellular......-I in areas of intimal hyperplasia and in shoulder regions of advanced plaques. Treatment of human monocytes with M-CSF or M-CSF+LDL generated macrophages and foam cells producing CTX-I when cultured on type I collagen enriched matrix. Circulating levels of CTX-I were not significantly different in women...... with aortic calcifications compared to those without. CONCLUSIONS: Human macrophage foam cells degrade the atherosclerotic plaques though cathepsin K mediated processes, resulting in increase in levels of CTX-I. Serum CTX-I was not elevated in women with aortic calcification, likely due to the contribution...
The content of copper and zinc in human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque
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Radak Đorđe
Full Text Available INTRODUCTION Copper and zinc have significant antiatherogenic effect influencing activity of antioxidant enzyms (giutathion-peroxidase i superoxid-dismutase, mechanism of apoptosis and other mechanisms. Few studies showed increased copper and zinc concentration in atherosclerotic plaque in comparison to normal vascular tissue. AIM The aim of the study was to compare copper and zinc concentrations in carotid artery tissue without significant atherosclerotic changes and human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque. MATERIAL AND METHODS Study was conducted on 66 patients. Carotid endarterectomy due to the significant carotid atherosclerotic changes with cerebrovascular disorders was performed in 54 patients (81.8%. Control group consisted of 12 patients (18.2% without carotid atherosclerotic changes operated due to the symptomatic kinking and coiling of carotid artery. Operated group consisted of 38 man (62.96% and 16 woman (37.04%. Control group had the same number of patients: six men (50% and six women (50%. Preoperatively, all patients were examined by vascular surgeon, neurologist and cardiologist. Duplex sonografy of carotid and vertebral arteries was performed by Aloca DSD 630 ultrasound with mechanical and linear transducer 7.7 MHz. Indication for surgical treatment was obtained according to non-invasive diagnostic protocol and neurological symptoms. Copper and zinc concentration in human ulcered atherosclerotic plaque and carotid artery segment were estimated by spectophotometry (Varian AA-5. RESULTS Average age of our patients was 59.8±8.1 years. For males average age was 76.1 ±9.8 years. And for females 42.4±5.8 years. In group with carotid endarterectomy female patients were significantly younger than male patients (p<0.01. In group with carotid endarterectomy clinically determined neurological disorders were found in 47 patients (87.03%-35 male (74.47% and 12 female patients (25.53%. Regarding risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, no
68Ga-DOTA-RGD peptide: biodistribution and binding into atherosclerotic plaques in mice
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Increased expression of αvβ3/αvβ5 integrin is involved in angiogenesis and the inflammatory process in atherosclerotic plaques. The novel 68Ga-DOTA-RGD peptide binds with high affinity to αvβ3/αvβ5 integrin. The aim of this study was to investigate the uptake of the 68Ga-DOTA-RGD peptide in atherosclerotic plaques. Uptake of intravenously administered 68Ga-DOTA-RGD peptide was studied ex vivo in excised tissue samples and aortic sections of LDLR-/-ApoB100/100 atherosclerotic mice. The uptake of the tracer in aortic cryosections was examined by using digital autoradiography. Subsequently, the autoradiographs were combined with histological and immunohistological analysis of the sections. DOTA-RGD peptide was successfully labelled with the generator-produced 68Ga. The tracer had reasonably good specific radioactivity (8.7 ± 1.1 GBq/μmol) and was quite stable in vivo. According to ex vivo biodistribution results, 68Ga-DOTA-RGD was cleared rapidly from the blood circulation and excreted through the kidneys to the urine with high radioactivity in the intestine, lungs, spleen and liver. Autoradiography results showed significantly higher uptake of 68Ga-DOTA-RGD peptide in the atherosclerotic plaques compared to healthy vessel wall (mean ratio ± SD 1.4 ± 0.1, p = 0.0004). We observed that 68Ga-DOTA-RGD is accumulated into the plaques of atherosclerotic mice. However, this data only shows the feasibility of the approach, while the clinical significance still remains to be proven. Further studies are warranted to assess the uptake of this tracer into human atherosclerotic plaques. (orig.)
Thiocyanate supplementation decreases atherosclerotic plaque in mice expressing human myeloperoxidase
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Morgan, P E; Laura, R P; Maki, R A;
appreciably altered. Serum MPO levels steadily increased in mice on the high-fat diet, however, comparison of SCN(-)-supplemented versus control mice showed no significant changes in MPO protein, cholesterol, or triglyceride levels; thiol levels were decreased in supplemented mice at one time-point. Plaque...... curve (AUC). Mean serum SCN(-) concentrations were elevated in the supplemented mice (200-320 μM) relative to controls (< 120 μM). Normalized aortic root plaque areas at sacrifice were 26% lower in the SCN(-)-supplemented mice compared with controls (P = 0.0417), but plaque morphology was not...
Dichotomy in Hedgehog Signaling between Human Healthy Vessel and Atherosclerotic Plaques
Queiroz, Karla C. S.; Bijlsma, Maarten F.; Tio, Rene A.; Zeebregts, Clark J.; Dunaeva, Marina; Ferreira, Carmen V.; Fuhler, Gwenny M.; Kuipers, Ernst J.; Alves, Maria M.; Rezaee, Farhad; Spek, C. Arnold; Peppelenbosch, Maikel P.
The major cause for plaque instability in atherosclerotic disease is neoangiogenic revascularization, but the factors controlling this process remain only partly understood. Hedgehog (HH) is a morphogen with important functions in revascularization, but its function in human healthy vessel biology a
Detection of Fungal Elements in Atherosclerotic Plaques Using Mycological, Pathological and Molecular Methods
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Omid MASOUMI
Full Text Available Background: The aim of this study was to detect fungi in atherosclerotic plaques and investigate their possible role in atherosclerosis.Methods: Coronary atherosclerotic plaques specimen were obtained from patients with atherosclerosis. Direct exami-nation, culture, histopathology study, PCR and sequencing were performed to detect/identify the mycotic elements in the plaques. Age, sex, smoking, obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, family history of heart diseases and diabetes were considered and data were analyzed using Chi Square test by SPSS version 15.Results: A total of 41 specimens were analyzed. Direct examination for fungal elements was negative in all cases but in culture only one specimen grew as a mold colony. The presence of fungal elements were confirmed in 6 and 2 tissue sections stained by Gomori methenamine silver and Hematoxylin and Eosin methods, respectively. Using PCR, 11 cases were positive for fungi. The DNA sequence analysis of six positive specimens which were randomly selected revealed fungi as Candida albicans (n=3, Candida guilliermondii (n=2 and Monilia sp. (n=1.Conclusion: A significant association between the presence of fungi in atherosclerotic plaques and severity of athero-genesis and atherosclerotic disease was not found. This could be due to limited numbers of patients included in our study. However, the presence of fungal elements in 26.8% of our specimens is considerable and the results does not exclude the correlation between the presence of fungi with atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease.
Atherosclerotic plaque fibrous cap assessment under an oblique scan plane orientation in carotid MRI
Nieuwstadt, H.A.; Van der Lugt, A.; Kassar, Z.A.M.; Breeuwer, M.; Van der Steen, A.F.W.; Gijsen, F.J.H.
Carotid magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is used to noninvasively assess atherosclerotic plaque fibrous cap (FC) status, which is closely related to ischemic stroke. Acquiring anisotropic voxels improves in-plane visualization, however, an oblique scan plane orientation could then obscure a FC (i.e.
Influence of insonification angle on echogenicity of B-mode images of atherosclerotic plaque in vitro
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Wilhjelm, Jens E.; Jespersen, Søren Kragh; Hansen, J. U.;
A newly developed (off-line) spatial compound scanner was used to scan formalin-fixed atherosclerotic carotid plaques. Forty-eight B-mode images were recorded using 7 insonification angles. All calculations were done on the envelope-detected image data. The mean amplitude level (MAL) in (relative...
A statin-loaded reconstituted high-density lipoprotein nanoparticle inhibits atherosclerotic plaque inflammation
Duivenvoorden, Raphaël; Tang, Jun; Cormode, David P.; Mieszawska, Aneta J.; Izquierdo-Garcia, David; Ozcan, Canturk; Otten, Maarten J.; Zaidi, Neeha; Lobatto, Mark E.; van Rijs, Sarian M.; Priem, Bram; Kuan, Emma L.; Martel, Catherine; Hewing, Bernd; Sager, Hendrik; Nahrendorf, Matthias; Randolph, Gwendalyn J.; Stroes, Erik S. G.; Fuster, Valentin; Fisher, Edward A.; Fayad, Zahi A.; Mulder, Willem J. M.
Inflammation is a key feature of atherosclerosis and a target for therapy. Statins have potent anti-inflammatory properties but these cannot be fully exploited with oral statin therapy due to low systemic bioavailability. Here we present an injectable reconstituted high-density lipoprotein (rHDL) nanoparticle carrier vehicle that delivers statins to atherosclerotic plaques. We demonstrate the anti-inflammatory effect of statin-rHDL in vitro and show that this effect is mediated through the inhibition of the mevalonate pathway. We also apply statin-rHDL nanoparticles in vivo in an apolipoprotein E-knockout mouse model of atherosclerosis and show that they accumulate in atherosclerotic lesions in which they directly affect plaque macrophages. Finally, we demonstrate that a 3-month low-dose statin-rHDL treatment regimen inhibits plaque inflammation progression, while a 1-week high-dose regimen markedly decreases inflammation in advanced atherosclerotic plaques. Statin-rHDL represents a novel potent atherosclerosis nanotherapy that directly affects plaque inflammation.
Calculation of arterial wall temperature in atherosclerotic arteries: effect of pulsatile flow, arterial geometry, and plaque structure
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Kim Taehong
Full Text Available Abstract Background This paper presents calculations of the temperature distribution in an atherosclerotic plaque experiencing an inflammatory process; it analyzes the presence of hot spots in the plaque region and their relationship to blood flow, arterial geometry, and inflammatory cell distribution. Determination of the plaque temperature has become an important topic because plaques showing a temperature inhomogeneity have a higher likelihood of rupture. As a result, monitoring plaque temperature and knowing the factors affecting it can help in the prevention of sudden rupture. Methods The transient temperature profile in inflamed atherosclerotic plaques is calculated by solving an energy equation and the Navier-Stokes equations in 2D idealized arterial models of a bending artery and an arterial bifurcation. For obtaining the numerical solution, the commercial package COMSOL 3.2 was used. The calculations correspond to a parametric study where arterial type and size, as well as plaque geometry and composition, are varied. These calculations are used to analyze the contribution of different factors affecting arterial wall temperature measurements. The main factors considered are the metabolic heat production of inflammatory cells, atherosclerotic plaque length lp, inflammatory cell layer length lmp, and inflammatory cell layer thickness dmp. Results The calculations indicate that the best location to perform the temperature measurement is at the back region of the plaque (0.5 ≤ l/lp ≤ 0.7. The location of the maximum temperature, or hot spot, at the plaque surface can move during the cardiac cycle depending on the arterial geometry and is a direct result of the blood flow pattern. For the bending artery, the hot spot moves 0.6 millimeters along the longitudinal direction; for the arterial bifurcation, the hot spot is concentrated at a single location due to the flow recirculation observed at both ends of the plaque. Focusing on the
Nuclear medicine and coronary artery disease: evaluation of tracers of myocardial perfusion and vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque
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Coronary artery disease is one of the primary cause of mortality worldwide. Nuclear medicine is the major imaging technique for diagnosis and following of this disease. perfusion: nowadays, major radioactive agents used in clinical practice are myocardial perfusion tracers. The reference tracer is thallium-201. However, 201Tl presents some drawbacks. 99mTcn-noet has been proposed for its replacement. This study shows that in contrast with previous studies realized in vitro on cardio myocytes, verapamil, an l-type calcium channel inhibitor, does not inhibit myocardial fixation of 99mTcn-noet in vivo in dog. This data is in agreement with the hypothesis of a non specific endothelial fixation of this tracer. Moreover, this study shows that as a pure tracer of myocardial perfusion, 99mTcn-noet can also be used to assess myocardial viability on a model of myocardial chronic infarction in rat. atherosclerosis: disruption of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques is the main event leading to coronary accidents. The second part of this study concerns the evaluation of new potential tracers of the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque in an experimental model of rabbit with an inheritable hypercholesterolemia. The four tracers evaluated (b2702(r), b2702-I, b2702-Tc and Tc-raft-b2702) are synthetic peptides comprising the residues 75-84 of hla-b2702, a molecule known to link vcam-1, an adhesion molecule expressed in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque. The autoradiography studies show that all tracers accumulate within atherosclerotic plaque expressing vcam- and that. i-b2702 shows the best plaque/control fixation ratio. (author)
Mucosal Administration of Collagen V Ameliorates the Atherosclerotic Plaque Burden by Inducing Interleukin 35-dependent Tolerance.
Park, Arick C; Huang, Guorui; Jankowska-Gan, Ewa; Massoudi, Dawiyat; Kernien, John F; Vignali, Dario A; Sullivan, Jeremy A; Wilkes, David S; Burlingham, William J; Greenspan, Daniel S
We have shown previously that collagen V (col(V)) autoimmunity is a consistent feature of atherosclerosis in human coronary artery disease and in the Apoe(-/-) mouse model. We have also shown sensitization of Apoe(-/-) mice with col(V) to markedly increase the atherosclerotic burden, providing evidence of a causative role for col(V) autoimmunity in atherosclerotic pathogenesis. Here we sought to determine whether induction of immune tolerance to col(V) might ameliorate atherosclerosis, providing further evidence for a causal role for col(V) autoimmunity in atherogenesis and providing insights into the potential for immunomodulatory therapeutic interventions. Mucosal inoculation successfully induced immune tolerance to col(V) with an accompanying reduction in plaque burden in Ldlr(-/-) mice on a high-cholesterol diet. The results therefore demonstrate that inoculation with col(V) can successfully ameliorate the atherosclerotic burden, suggesting novel approaches for therapeutic interventions. Surprisingly, tolerance and reduced atherosclerotic burden were both dependent on the recently described IL-35 and not on IL-10, the immunosuppressive cytokine usually studied in the context of induced tolerance and amelioration of atherosclerotic symptoms. In addition to the above, using recombinant protein fragments, we were able to localize two epitopes of the α1(V) chain involved in col(V) autoimmunity in atherosclerotic Ldlr(-/-) mice, suggesting future courses of experimentation for the characterization of such epitopes.
Tools for improving the diagnosis of atherosclerotic plaque using ultrasound
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Jespersen, Søren Kragh
topics have been investigated: an ultrasound pulse-echo simulation tool and a new compound imaging technique for improving visualization of atherosclerotic disease.A tool for simulation of the received electrical signal in a pulse-echo ultrasound system, due to a reflector surface of arbitrary geometry......, has been developed. The method is denoted the Diffraction Response Interpolation Method (DRIM) and is based on the pulse-echo diffraction impulse response method. The DRIM is a computationally efficient tool for calculating the integral of the spatially varying pulse-echo diffraction impulse response...... and experimentally. The MACI method operates by recording information about a given tissue region using a number of beam angles (typically 3 to 11) and combining the information into a single compound image (so-called spatial compounding). During the project a flexible experimental multi-channel ultrasound system...
Mechanical modeling of cholesterol crystallization in atherosclerotic plaques base on Micro-OCT images (Conference Presentation)
Luo, Yuemei; Liu, Xinyu; Chen, Si; Cui, Dongyao; Wang, Xianghong; Liu, Linbo
Plaque rupture is the critical cause of cardiovascular thrombosis but this process is still under discussion. Recent studies show that, during crystallization, cholesterol crystals in atheromatous plaques accumulate rapidly in a limited space and may result in plaque rupture. However, the actual role of cholesterol crystals on plaque rupture remains unclear due to the lack of detailed morphological information of cholesterol crystals. In this study, we used a Micro-optical coherence tomography (µOCT) setup with 1-2 µm spatial resolution to extract the geometry of cholesterol crystals from human atherosclerotic artery ex vivo firstly. With measured dimensions of cholesterol crystals by this µOCT system (the average length and thickness of 269.1±80.16 µm and 3.0±0.33 µm), we developed a two-dimensional mechanical model in which rectangular shaped cholesterol crystals distribute at different locations spatially. We predicted the stress on the thin cap induced by the expansion of cholesterol crystals by use of finite-element method. Since a large portion of plaques (58%) rupture at points of peak circumferential stress (PCS), we used PCS as the primary indicator of plaque stability with blood pressure of 14.6 kPa on the lumen. The results demonstrate that loading of the concentrated crystals especially at the cap shoulder destabilize the plaque by proportionally increasing the PCS, while evenly distributed crystals loading along the cap might impose less PCS to the plaque than the concentrated case.
Delivery of negatively charged liposomes into the atherosclerotic plaque of apolipoprotein E-deficient mouse aortic tissue
Zhaorigetu, Siqin; Rodriguez-Aguayo, Cristian; Sood, Anil K.; Lopez-Berestein, Gabriel; Walton, Brian L.
Liposomes have been used to diagnose and treat cancer and, to a lesser extent, cardiovascular disease. We previously showed the uptake of anionic liposomes into the atheromas of Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic rabbits within lipid pools. However, the cellular distribution of anionic liposomes in atherosclerotic plaque remains undescribed. In addition, how anionic liposomes are absorbed into atherosclerotic plaque is unclear. We investigated the uptake and distribution of anionic liposomes i...
Prevalence of Foam Cells and Helper-T cells in Atherosclerotic Plaques of Korean Patients with Carotid Atheroma
Lee, Won-Ha; Ko, Young-Hyeh; Kim, Dong-Ik; Lee, Byung-Boong; Park, Jeong-Euy
Background Inflammation and activation of immune cells have important roles in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. We analyzed the involvement of various immune cells in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Methods We investigated the presence of foam cells, lymphocytes and killer cells in 11 atherosclerotic plaque specimens removed from Korean patients who underwent carotid endoarterectomy. Atherosclerotic plaques were analyzed by immunohistochemistry using monoclonal antibody specific to f...
Rosiglitazone modulates collagen deposition and metabolism in atherosclerotic plaques of fat-fed ApoE-knockout mice
Zhou, Mingxue; Xu, Hao; Liu, Weihong; Liu, Hongxu
Abnormal collagen deposition, as well as collagen metabolism, plays a crucial role in the formation and progression of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques (VAPs), which are susceptible to rupture. According to our previous findings, rosiglitazone, a thiazolidinedione, can promote the stability of atherosclerotic plaques in fat-fed ApoE-knockout mice; however, it is unknown whether it can modulate collagen deposition and metabolism in VAPs. The present study was designed to determine the effect...
The association between Chlamydia pneumoniae DNA in atherosclerotic plaque and major risk factors in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting
Hedayat, Daryoosh Kamal; Jebeli, Mohammad; Mandegar, Mohammad Hossein; Bagheri, Jamshid; Nabavi, Seyed Abbas; Eghtesadi-Araghi, Payam; Mohammadzadeh, Robabeh; Darehzereshki, Ali; Chitsaz, Sam; Abbasi, Ali
Background and aim: This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of Chlamydia pneumoniae pathogen inside the atherosclerotic plaque of patients undergoing CABG by using PCR assay and to determine whether there is any association between the presence of bacteria in atherosclerotic lesions a
Detecting microcalcifications in atherosclerotic plaques by a simple trichromic staining method for epoxy embedded carotid endarterectomies
Relucenti, M.; Heyn, R.; Petruzziello, L.; Pugliese, G.; Taurino, M.; Familiari, G.
Atherosclerotic plaques have a high probability of undergoing rapid progression to stenosis, becoming responsible of acute coronary syndrome or stroke. Microcalcifications may act as enhancers of atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability. Considering that calcifications with a diameter smalller than 10 µm in paraffin embedded tissue are rather difficult to detect, our aim was to analyze microcalcifications on semithin sections from epoxy resin embedded samples of carotid endarterectomies using an original trichromic stain (methylene blue-azur B - basic fuchsine - alizarin red). We have compared samples stained either with our method, methylene blue-azur B alone or with Von Kossa staining, and methylene blue-azur B -basic fuchsine alone or with Von Kossa staining. Our method resulted to be simple and fast (ca. 2 min), it gives a sharp general contrast for all structures and allows to easy identify collagen and elastin. In addition, gray-green colour associated to intracellular lipid droplets evidences foam cells, which are particularly abundant in endarterectomies samples. Mast cells and their metachromatic granules are also well recognized. Calcifications over 0,5 µm are clearly recognizable. In conclusion, microcalcifications are clearly distinguished from the extracellular matrix in spite of their reduced dimensions. Methylene blue-azur B-basic fuchsine-alizarin red method is easy to use, reproducible, and is particularly suitable for the identification of microcalcifications in the morphological analysis of atherosclerotic plaques. PMID:20819772
Detecting microcalcifications in atherosclerotic plaques by a simple trichromic staining method for epoxy embedded carotid endarterectomies
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G. Familiari
Full Text Available Atherosclerotic plaques have a high probability of undergoing rapid progression to stenosis, becoming responsible of acute coronary syndrome or stroke. Microcalcifications may act as enhancers of atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability. Considering that calcifications with a diameter smalller than 10 mm in paraffin embedded tissue are rather difficult to detect, our aim was to analyze microcalcifications on semithin sections from epoxy resin embedded samples of carotid endarterectomies using an original trichromic stain (methylene blue- azur B - basic fuchsine - alizarin red. We have compared samples stained either with our method, methylene blue-azur B alone or with Von Kossa staining, and methylene blue-azur B -basic fuchsine alone or with Von Kossa staining. Our method resulted to be simple and fast (ca. 2 min, it gives a sharp general contrast for all structures and allows to easy identify collagen and elastin. In addition, gray-green colour associated to intracellular lipid droplets evidences foam cells, which are particularly abundant in endarterectomies samples. Mast cells and their metachromatic granules are also well recognized. Calcifications over 0,5 mm are clearly recognizable. In conclusion, microcalcifications are clearly distinguished from the extracellular matrix in spite of their reduced dimensions. Methylene blue-azur B-basic fuchsine-alizarin red method is easy to use, reproducible, and is particularly suitable for the identification of microcalcifications in the morphological analysis of atherosclerotic plaques.
[Inflammatory-destructive biomarkers of atherosclerotic plaques instability. Study of arterial wall and blood].
Ragino, Iu I; Cherniavskiĭ, A M; Polonskaia, Ia V; Volkov, A M; Kashtanova, E V; Tsymbal, S Iu; Polovnikova, E M
Concentrations of tumor necrosis factor, interleukin 1- and its receptor antagonist, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, IL-2, ligand of CD40 receptor (CD40L), high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), monocyte chemotactic protein -1, endothelial monocyte activating protein II, adhesive molecules (sICAM-1 and sVCAM-1), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-3, MMP-7, MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP-1) and endothelin-1 were studied in blood and in coronary artery intima/media of men with coronary atherosclerosis without acute coronary syndrome. Blood levels of hsCRP, IL-8, IL-6 and CD40L were higher, while blood levels of sVCAM and TIMP-1 were lower in men with prevalence of unstable atherosclerotic plaques compared to men with prevalence of stable atherosclerotic plaques in coronary arteries. Blood levels of hsCRP, IL-6 and IL-8 correlated with characteristics of coronary artery atherosclerotic plaques instability. Correlation between hsCRP blood level and hsCRP concentration in coronary artery intima/media material was also revealed. PMID:22839584
Vitamin K-antagonists accelerate atherosclerotic calcification and induce a vulnerable plaque phenotype.
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Leon J Schurgers
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Vitamin K-antagonists (VKA are treatment of choice and standard care for patients with venous thrombosis and thromboembolic risk. In experimental animal models as well as humans, VKA have been shown to promote medial elastocalcinosis. As vascular calcification is considered an independent risk factor for plaque instability, we here investigated the effect of VKA on coronary calcification in patients and on calcification of atherosclerotic plaques in the ApoE(-/- model of atherosclerosis. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: A total of 266 patients (133 VKA users and 133 gender and Framingham Risk Score matched non-VKA users underwent 64-slice MDCT to assess the degree of coronary artery disease (CAD. VKA-users developed significantly more calcified coronary plaques as compared to non-VKA users. ApoE(-/- mice (10 weeks received a Western type diet (WTD for 12 weeks, after which mice were fed a WTD supplemented with vitamin K(1 (VK(1, 1.5 mg/g or vitamin K(1 and warfarin (VK(1&W; 1.5 mg/g & 3.0 mg/g for 1 or 4 weeks, after which mice were sacrificed. Warfarin significantly increased frequency and extent of vascular calcification. Also, plaque calcification comprised microcalcification of the intimal layer. Furthermore, warfarin treatment decreased plaque expression of calcification regulatory protein carboxylated matrix Gla-protein, increased apoptosis and, surprisingly outward plaque remodeling, without affecting overall plaque burden. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: VKA use is associated with coronary artery plaque calcification in patients with suspected CAD and causes changes in plaque morphology with features of plaque vulnerability in ApoE(-/- mice. Our findings underscore the need for alternative anticoagulants that do not interfere with the vitamin K cycle.
Magnetic resonance imaging features of vulnerable plaques in an atherosclerotic rabbit model
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ZHAO Xue-cheng; ZHAO Quan-ming; MA Xiao-hai; ZENG Cong-he; FENG Ting-ting; ZHAO Xin; ZHANG Zhao-qi
Background Noninvasive detection of vulnerable plaque has a significant implication for prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic diseases.The aim of this study is to investigate the difference between vulnerable plaques and stable plaques in magnetic resonance (MR) images.Methods Atherosclerosis was induced in twenty male New Zealand white rabbits by high cholesterol diet and balloon injury of the abdominal aorta.After baseline (pre-triggering) MR imaging (MRI) scan,the rabbits underwent pharmaceutical triggering with Russell's viper venom and histamine to induce atherothrombosis,followed by another MRI scan 48 hours later (post-triggering).Rabbits were euthanized to obtain pathological and histological data.The results of MRI were compared with those of pathology and histology.Results MRI showed that abdominal aorta of the rabbits had pathological change of atherosclerosis in different degrees.Seventy-five plaques were analysed,among which 14 had vulnerable thrombi and 61 stable.Thrombosis was identified in 7 of 11 rabbits by post-triggering MRI,the sensitivity and K value of MR in detection of vulnerable plaque was 71% and 0.803 (P <0.05).MRI data significantly correlated with the histopathological data in fibrous cap thickness (t=0.749) plaque area (r=0.853),lipid core area (r=0.900).Compared with stable plaques,vulnerable plaques had a significantly thinner fibrous cap ((0.58+0.27) mm vs.(0.95+0.22) mm),larger lipid core area ((7.56+2.78) mm2 vs.(3.29+1.75) mm2),and a higher ratio of lipid core area/plaque area ((55+16)% vs.(27±17)%),but plaque area was comparable in two groups on MRI.The ratio of lipid core area/plaque area was a strong predictor of vulnerable plaques.Conclusion MRI could distinguish vulnerable plaques from stable plaques in a rabbit model of atherothrombosis and may thus be useful as a noninvasive modality for detection of vulnerable plaques in humans.
IVUS-based histology of atherosclerotic plaques: improving longitudinal resolution
Taki, Arash; Pauly, Olivier; Setarehdan, S. Kamaledin; Unal, Gozde; Navab, Nassir
Although Virtual Histology (VH) is the in-vivo gold standard for atherosclerosis plaque characterization in IVUS images, it suffers from a poor longitudinal resolution due to ECG-gating. In this paper, we propose an image-based approach to overcome this limitation. Since each tissue have different echogenic characteristics, they show in IVUS images different local frequency components. By using Redundant Wavelet Packet Transform (RWPT), IVUS images are decomposed in multiple sub-band images. To encode the textural statistics of each resulting image, run-length features are extracted from the neighborhood centered on each pixel. To provide the best discrimination power according to these features, relevant sub-bands are selected by using Local Discriminant Bases (LDB) algorithm in combination with Fisher's criterion. A structure of weighted multi-class SVM permits the classification of the extracted feature vectors into three tissue classes, namely fibro-fatty, necrotic core and dense calcified tissues. Results shows the superiority of our approach with an overall accuracy of 72% in comparison to methods based on Local Binary Pattern and Co-occurrence, which respectively give accuracy rates of 70% and 71%.
Evaluation of radiotracers for the detection of atherosclerotic vulnerable plaque and myocardial angiogenesis
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Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Coronary events are mainly caused by coronary plaque rupture or erosion. However, at present, there is no noninvasive tool available for the detection of vulnerable plaques. The first part of thesis is about evaluation of new radiotracers for the detection of atherosclerotic vulnerable plaques. 99mTc-B2702p, 20 derivatives, 99mTc-VP and 99mTc-VINP28 were evaluated in an experimental model of atherosclerosis (ApoE-/- mice with left carotid artery ligation). 99mTc- B2702p1 is a potentially useful radiotracer for the in vivo molecular imaging of VCAM-1 expression in atherosclerotic plaques. Myocardial angiogenesis is an important post infarction phenomenon. Angiogenic therapy improves experimentally cardiac parameters. However, clinical trials using the same therapy are more controversial. At present, clinical imaging tools don't allow us to assess angiogenesis therapy. The second part of thesis is about validation of 99mTc-RAFT-RGD in the detection of myocardial angiogenesis. 99mTc-RAFT-RGD allow us to perform noninvasive molecular imaging of myocardial angiogenesis in an experimental model. (author)
{sup 18}F-FDG in distinction of atherosclerotic plaque: Innovation in PET/MRI technology
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Benedetto, Raquel; Fonseca, Lea Mirian Barbosa da, E-mail: email@example.com [Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), RJ (Brazil); Carneiro, Michel Pontes; Junqueira, Flavia Albuquerque; Coutinho Junior, Antonio [Clinica de Diagnostico por Imagem (CDPI), Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil); Ristow, Arno von [Centervasc, Rio de Janeiro, RJ (Brazil)
The glucose analogue, {sup 18}F-FDG, can be used to image inflammatory cell activity non-invasively by PET. In the present study, we investigate the possibility of using {sup 18}F-FDG to characterize atherosclerotic plaques. A 77-year-old man with symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis was imaged using {sup 18}F-FDG-PET and co-registered MRI. A plaque with intense fibrotic and necrotic content was obtained. Due to the fact that the tissue showed up as inactive, according to the metabolic activity, it was not possible to observe {sup 18}F-FDG uptake. Our aim was to confirm that it could be clinically used to predict the inflammatory activity of the plaque. (author)
Distribution of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Human Atherosclerotic Carotid Plaques and Their Production by Smooth Muscle Cells and Macrophage Subsets
Jager, Nynke A.; de Vries, Bastiaan M. Wallis; Hillebrands, Jan-Luuk; Harlaar, Niels J.; Tio, Rene A.; Slart, Riemer H. J. A.; van Dam, Gooitzen M.; Boersma, Hendrikus H.; Zeebregts, Clark J.; Westra, Johanna
In this study, the potential of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) sense for detection of atherosclerotic plaque instability was explored. Secondly, expression of MMPs by macrophage subtypes and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) was investigated. Twenty-three consecutive plaques removed during carotid endarter
Digital Image Analysis of Ultrasound B-mode images of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque: Correlation with Histological Examination
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Wilhjelm, Jens E.; Rosendal, Kim; Grønholdt, Marie-Louise Moes;
This paper reports on a study of how well texture features extracted from B-mode images of atherosclerotic plaque correlates with histological results obtained from the same plaque after carotid endarterectomy. The study reveals that a few second order texture features (diagonal moment, standard...
Insulin inhibits inflammation and promotes atherosclerotic plaque stability via PI3K-Akt pathway activation.
Yan, Hao; Ma, Ying; Li, Yan; Zheng, Xiaohui; Lv, Ping; Zhang, Yuan; Li, Jia; Ma, Meijuan; Zhang, Le; Li, Congye; Zhang, Rongqing; Gao, Feng; Wang, Haichang; Tao, Ling
Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 induced inflammation was reported to play an important role in atherosclerotic plaque stability. Recent studies indicated that insulin could inhibit inflammation by activating phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt-dependent (PI3K-Akt) signaling pathway. In the current study, we hypothesized that insulin would inhibit TLR4 induced inflammation via promoting PI3K-Akt activation, thus enhancing the stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques. In order to mimic the process of plaque formation, monocyte-macrophage lineage RAW264.7 were cultured and induced to form foam cells by oxidized LDL (ox-LDL). Oil red O staining results showed that insulin significantly restrained ox-LDL-induced foam cell formation. Analysis of inflammatory reaction during foam cell formation indicated that insulin significantly down-regulated the expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6 levels, inhibited TLR4, myeloid differentiation primary response gene (MyD) 88 and nuclear factor (NF)-κB. Further mechanism analysis showed that pretreating with the PI3K blocker, wortmannin dramatically dampened the insulin-induced up-regulation of pAkt expression. Additionally, blockade of PI3K-Akt signaling also dampened the immunosuppression effect brought by insulin. Following the construction of a rodent atherosclerosis model, pretreatment of insulin resulted in an evident decrease in lipid deposition of the blood vessel wall, serum levels of TNF-α and IL-6, and numbers of infiltrated macrophages and foam cells. Taken together, these results suggested that insulin might inhibit inflammation and promote atherosclerotic plaque stability via the PI3K-Akt pathway by targeting TLR4-MyD88-NF-κB signaling. Our findings may provide a potential target for the prevention of cardiovascular disease. PMID:26681144
Fluorescence imaging of macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques using plasmonic gold nanorose
Wang, Tianyi; Sapozhnikova, Veronika; Mancuso, J. Jacob; Willsey, Brian; Qiu, Jinze; Ma, Li L.; Li, Xiankai; Johnston, Keith P.; Feldman, Marc D.; Milner, Thomas E.
Macrophages are one of the most important cell types involved in the progression of atherosclerosis which can lead to myocardial infarction. To detect macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques, plasmonic gold nanorose is introduced as a nontoxic contrast agent for fluorescence imaging. We report macrophage cell culture and ex vivo tissue studies to visualize macrophages targeted by nanorose using scanning confocal microscopy. Atherosclerotic lesions were created in the aorta of a New Zealand white rabbit model subjected to a high cholesterol diet and double balloon injury. The rabbit was injected with nanoroses coated with dextran. A HeNe laser at 633 nm was used as an excitation light source and a acousto-optical beam splitter was utilized to collect fluorescence emission in 650-760 nm spectral range. Results of scanning confocal microscopy of macrophage cell culture and ex vivo tissue showed that nanoroses produce a strong fluorescence signal. The presence of nanorose in ex vivo tissue was further confirmed by photothermal wave imaging. These results suggest that scanning confocal microscopy can identify the presence and location of nanorose-loaded macrophages in atherosclerotic plaques.
Leukotriene B4 levels in human atherosclerotic plaques and abdominal aortic aneurysms.
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Pleunie van den Borne
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Leukotriene B4 (LTB4 has been associated with the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA formation. However, associations of LTB4 levels with tissue characteristics and adverse clinical outcome of advanced atherosclerosis and AAA are scarcely studied. We hypothesized that LTB4 levels are associated with a vulnerable plaque phenotype and adverse clinical outcome. Furthermore, that LTB4 levels are associated with inflammatory AAA and adverse clinical outcome. METHODS: Atherosclerotic plaques and AAA specimens were selected from two independent databases for LTB4 measurements. Plaques were isolated during carotid endarterectomy from asymptomatic (n = 58 or symptomatic (n = 317 patients, classified prior to surgery. LTB4 levels were measured without prior lipid extraction and levels were corrected for protein content. LTB4 levels were related to plaque phenotype, baseline patient characteristics and clinical outcome within three years following surgery. Seven non-diseased mammary artery specimens served as controls. AAA specimens were isolated during open repair, classified as elective (n = 189, symptomatic (n = 29 or ruptured (n = 23. LTB4 levels were measured similar to the plaque measurements and were related to tissue characteristics, baseline patient characteristics and clinical outcome. Twenty-six non-diseased aortic specimens served as controls. RESULTS: LTB4 levels corrected for protein content were not significantly associated with histological characteristics specific for vulnerable plaques or inflammatory AAA as well as clinical presentation. Moreover, it could not predict secondary manifestations independently investigated in both databases. However, LTB4 levels were significantly lower in controls compared to plaque (p = 0.025 or AAA (p = 0.017. CONCLUSIONS: LTB4 levels were not associated with a vulnerable plaque phenotype or inflammatory AAA or clinical
Automatic classification of atherosclerotic plaques imaged with intravascular OCT (Conference Presentation)
Rico-Jimenez, Jose D.; Campos-Delgado, Daniel U.; Villiger, Martin; Bouma, Brett; Jo, Javier A.
A novel computational method for plaque tissue characterization based on Intravascular Optical Coherence Tomography (IV-OCT) is presented. IV-OCT is becoming a powerful tool for the clinical evaluation of atherosclerotic plaques; however, it requires a trained expert for visual assessment and interpretation of the imaged plaques. Moreover, due to the inherit effect of speckle and the scattering attenuation of the optical scheme the direct interpretation of OCT images is limited. To overcome these difficulties, we propose to automatically identify the A-line profiles of the most significant plaque types (normal, fibrotic, or lipid-rich) and their respective abundance by using a probabilistic framework and blind alternated least squares to achieve the optimal decomposition. In this context, we present preliminary results of this novel probabilistic classification tool for intravascular OCT that relies on two steps. First, the B-scan is pre-processed to remove catheter artifacts, segment the lumen, select the region of interest (ROI), flatten the tissue surface, and reduce the speckle effect by a spatial entropy filter. Next, the resulting image is decomposed and its A-lines are classified by an automated strategy based on alternating-least-squares optimization. Our early results are encouraging and suggest that the proposed methodology can identify normal tissue, fibrotic and lipid-rich plaques from IV-OCT images.
Comparison between Adventitial and Intimal Inflammation of Ruptured and Nonruptured Atherosclerotic Plaques in Human Coronary Arteries
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Higuchi Maria L.
Full Text Available OBJECTIVE: To verify the possible role of adventitial inflammation in atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability and coronary artery remodelling. METHODS: We compared the mean numbers of lymphocytes in the adventitia and in the plaque of ruptured thrombosed and stable equi-stenotic coronary segments of 34 patients who died due to acute myocardial infarction. We also analysed adventitial microvessels, adventitial fibrosis and the external elastic membrane. RESULTS: In the adventitia, the numbers of lymphocytes and microvessels/mm² were 69.5±88.3 and 60.9± 32.1 in culprit lesions and 16.4 ± 21.1 and 44.3±16.1 in stable lesions (p<0.05; within the plaques, the mean number of lymphocytes was 24±40.8 in culprit lesions and 10.9±13.2 in stable ones (p=0.17. The mean percent area of adventitial fibrosis/cross-sectional area of the vessel was significantly lower in unstable plaques (p<0.001. The confocal images showed holes in the external elastic membrane. CONCLUSION: Unstable plaques exhibit chronic pan-arteritis, accompanied by enlargement, medial thinning, and less fibrosis than in stable lesions, which is compatible with vessel aneurysm. Adventitial inflammation may contribute significantly to atheroma instability.
To evaluate the composition and typing of carotid artery atherosclerotic plaque and the relationship between plaque morphology and clinical symptoms%MRI评估颈动脉粥样硬化斑块成分、类型及其与临床症状的相关性
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罗南; 刘一; 范占明
Objective To compare plaque morphology from patients with and without stroke symptoms, determine the relationship between carotid plaque morphology and stroke pathogenesis, and evaluate the warning function of high-field MR on early diagnosis of plaque. Methods Patients with carotid artery atherosclerotic plaque detected by B-mode ultrasonography were examined with MR imaging. Imaging was performed with a 3.0-T MR imager (Philips or GE) and a special 8-channel phased-array surface coil for carotid artery. The protocols include T1-, intermediate-, T2-, and post-contrast T1-weighted MR imaging, as well as three-dimensional time-of-flight (TOF) and MP-RAGE. All examinations were performed with a 14cm field of view, a matrix of 256 × 256 pixels,a 2-mm section thickness, and two acquired signals. An intersection space of -1 mm was used for three-dimensional TOF angiography and MP-RAGE, whereas no intersection space was used for MR imaging. Gadopentetate Dimeglumine was the contrast agent with the dosage of 0.1 mmol/Kg(0.2 ml/Kg)and injection speed of 0.7 ml/s. One observer recorded quantitative and morphologic information, which included measurement of the area of the lumen and main plaque components (calcification, hemorrhage, loose matrix ); fibrous cap status (thick, thin, or ruptured); reformed MR lesion type (types Ⅰ-Ⅷ) based on American Heart Association (AHA). Plaques associated with neurologic symptoms(transient ischemic attack, amaurosis fugax, or stroke appropriate to the distribution of the index carotid artery)and asymptomatic plaques were compared with Independent-sample T test on luminal stenosis, chi square test on occurrence rate of main plaque components and fibrous cap rupture respectively and regression analysis for the connection strength between plaque components and clinical symptoms. Results 64 carotid artery enrolled in the symptomatic group and 131 carotid artery enrolled in the asymptomatic group. Compared with asymptomatic plaques
Piperlongumine inhibits atherosclerotic plaque formation and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation by suppressing PDGF receptor signaling
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Son, Dong Ju [Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Kim, Soo Yeon [Division of Life Science, Korea Basic Science Institute, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of); Han, Seong Su [University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Iowa City, IA (United States); Kim, Chan Woo [Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Department of Bioinspired Science, Ehwa Womans University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Kumar, Sandeep [Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Park, Byeoung Soo [Nanotoxtech Co., Ansan (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Sung Eun [Division of Applied Biology and Chemistry, Kyungpook National University, Daegu (Korea, Republic of); Yun, Yeo Pyo [College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju (Korea, Republic of); Jo, Hanjoong, E-mail: email@example.com [Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (United States); Department of Bioinspired Science, Ehwa Womans University, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Park, Young Hyun, E-mail: email@example.com [Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Natural Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan (Korea, Republic of)
Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Anti-atherogenic effect of PL was examined using partial carotid ligation model in ApoE KO mice. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer PL prevented atherosclerotic plaque development, VSMCs proliferation, and NF-{kappa}B activation. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Piperlongumine reduced vascular smooth muscle cell activation through PDGF-R{beta} and NF-{kappa}B-signaling. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer PL may serve as a new therapeutic molecule for atherosclerosis treatment. -- Abstract: Piperlongumine (piplartine, PL) is an alkaloid found in the long pepper (Piper longum L.) and has well-documented anti-platelet aggregation, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties; however, the role of PL in prevention of atherosclerosis is unknown. We evaluated the anti-atherosclerotic potential of PL in an in vivo murine model of accelerated atherosclerosis and defined its mechanism of action in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in vitro. Local treatment with PL significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque formation as well as proliferation and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-{kappa}B) activation in an in vivo setting. PL treatment in VSMCs in vitro showed inhibition of migration and platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB)-induced proliferation to the in vivo findings. We further identified that PL inhibited PDGF-BB-induced PDGF receptor beta activation and suppressed downstream signaling molecules such as phospholipase C{gamma}1, extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 and Akt. Lastly, PL significantly attenuated activation of NF-{kappa}B-a downstream transcriptional regulator in PDGF receptor signaling, in response to PDGF-BB stimulation. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate a novel, therapeutic mechanism by which PL suppresses atherosclerosis plaque formation in vivo.
3D reconstruction of carotid atherosclerotic plaque: comparison between spatial compound ultrasound models and anatomical models
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Lind, Bo L.; Fagertun, Jens; Wilhjelm, Jens E.;
This study deals with the creation of 3D models that can work as a tool for discriminating between tissue and background in the development of tissue classification methods. Ten formalin-fixed atherosclerotic carotid plaques removed by endarterectomy were scanned with 3D multi-angle spatial...... compound ultrasound (US) and subsequently sliced and photographed to produce a 3D anatomical data set. Outlines in the ultrasound data were found by means of active contours and combined into 10 3D ultrasound models. The plaque regions of the anatomical photographs were outlined manually and then combined...... into 10 3D anatomical models. The volumes of the anatomical models correlated with the volume found by a water displacement method (r = 0.95), except for an offset. The models were compared in three ways. Visual inspection showed quite good agreement between the models. The volumes of the ultrasound...
PEG modification on 111In-labeled phosphatidyl serine liposomes for imaging of atherosclerotic plaques
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Introduction: Previously, we reported a probe for imaging of atherosclerotic plaques: 111In-labeled liposomes. Liposomes were modified with phosphatidylserine (PS) because macrophages recognize PS and phagocytize apoptotic cells in plaques. PS modification was successful and we could visualize atherosclerotic plaques by single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). However, too-rapid blood clearance reduced accumulation of PS-liposomes in plaques in vivo. Therefore, in the present study, PS-liposomes were modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) to retard the rate of blood clearance. Methods: PS-liposomes (size, 100 nm or 200 nm) were PEGylated with PEG2000 or PEG5000 at 1 or 5 mol%, and radiolabeled with 111In. For the study of uptake in vitro, liposomes were incubated with mouse peritoneal macrophages. Biodistribution studies in vivo were carried out in ddY mice. En face autoradiograms were obtained with apoE−/− mice upon intravenous injection of 111In-liposomes. Results: Uptake was decreased significantly at 5 mol% PEGylation in 100-nm PS-liposomes (*P < 0.05 vs. 0 mol%). All the PEGylated liposomes tested showed significantly lower uptake than the non-PEGylated control in 200-nm liposomes. In vivo results showed slower blood clearance in PEGylated liposomes. Autoradiograms in apoE−/− mice were well matched with Oil Red O staining. Additionally, 200-nm PS-liposomes modified with 5%PEG2000 ([111In]5%PEG2000PS200) showed the highest uptake to the region in vivo. Conclusions: As expected, PEGylation retarded the rate of blood clearance. In addition, it affected liposome uptake by macrophages in vitro. These results suggest that the balance between the rate of blood clearance and macrophage recognition is important, and [111In]5%PEG2000PS200 showed the best results in our investigation
Effect of atorvastatin therapy on oxidant-antioxidant status and atherosclerotic plaque formation
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Sezer ED
Full Text Available Ebru Demirel Sezer1, Eser Yildirim Sozmen1, Deniz Nart2, Taner Onat11Medical Biochemistry, 2Pathology Department, Ege University School of Medicine, Izmir, TurkeyBackground: The aim of this study was to determine the oxidant–antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation products, as well as paraoxonase and atherosclerotic plaque formation, in a hypercholesterolemic atherosclerosis rabbit model to investigate the effects of atorvastatin in the atherosclerotic process.Methods: Forty male New Zealand rabbits were divided into four groups, ie, a control group receiving standard pellets, a group receiving atorvastatin therapy, a hypercholesterolemic group receiving an atherogenic diet, and a group receiving both an atherogenic diet and atorvastatin.Results: The atherogenic diet increased the levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (1.84 vs 3.79 nmol/mg protein and LDL-conjugated diene (147 vs 318 µmol/mg protein after induction of oxidation by Cu2+, despite an increase of superoxide dismutase activity. Treatment with atorvastatin limited LDL oxidation significantly (LDL thiobarbituric acid reactive substances 2.19 nmol/mg protein, LDL-conjugated diene 222 µmol/mg protein. Paraoxonase, which prevents LDL oxidation and inactivates LDL-derived oxidized phospholipids, showed a pronounced decrease in the group receiving the atherogenic diet (110 U/L to 28 U/L, and atorvastatin treatment increased paraoxonase activity. Histological examination of arcus aorta tissues from the hypercholesterolemic group showed abundant plaque formation surrounding and obstructing the lumen, whereas treatment with atorvastatin prevented or limited plaque formation, keeping the plaque thin and localized.Conclusion: Atorvastatin has dramatic antiatherosclerotic effects, part of which seems to be due to the antioxidant features of the parent drug and/or its metabolites, favoring inhibition of LDL oxidation.Keywords: atherosclerosis
The NF-κB pathway: regulation of the instability of atherosclerotic plaques activated by Fg, Fb, and FDPs.
Cao, Yongjun; Zhou, Xiaomei; Liu, Huihui; Zhang, Yanlin; Yu, Xiaoyan; Liu, Chunfeng
Recently, the molecular mechanism responsible for the instability of atherosclerotic plaques has gradually become a hot topic among researchers and clinicians. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) play an important role in the processes of formation and development of atherosclerosis. In this study, we established and employed the transwell co-culture system of rabbit aortic endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells to explore the relationship between fibrin (Fb), fibrinogen (Fg), and/or their degradation products (FDPs) in relation to the instability of atherosclerotic plaques; meanwhile, we observed the effects of Fg, Fb, and FDPs on the mRNA levels of MMPs and VEGF as well as on the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). We concluded that Fb, Fg, and FDPs are involved in the progression of the instability of atherosclerotic plaques via increasing the expression of MMPs and VEGF. This effect might be mediated by the NF-кB pathway.
Quantitative profiling of oxylipins in plasma and atherosclerotic plaques of hypercholesterolemic rabbits.
Bojic, Lazar A; McLaren, David G; Harms, Amy C; Hankemeier, Thomas; Dane, Adrie; Wang, Sheng-Ping; Rosa, Ray; Previs, Stephen F; Johns, Douglas G; Castro-Perez, Jose M
Oxylipins are oxidation products of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) that affect a broad range of physiological processes, including cell proliferation, inflammation, inflammation resolution, and vascular function. Moreover, oxylipins are readily detectable in plasma, and certain subsets of oxylipins have been detected in human atherosclerotic lesions. Taken together, we set out to produce a detailed quantitative assessment of plasma and plaque oxylipins in a widely used model of atherosclerosis, to identify potential biomarkers of disease progression. We administered regular chow or regular chow supplemented with 0.5% cholesterol (HC) to male New Zealand white rabbits for 12 weeks to induce hypercholesterolemia and atherosclerosis. Our targeted lipidomic analyses of oxylipins on plaques isolated from rabbits fed the HC diet detected 34 oxylipins, 28 of which were in compliance with our previously established quality control acceptance criteria. The arachidonic acid (AA) metabolite derived from the COX pathway, 6-keto-PGF1α was the most abundant plaque oxylipin, followed by the linoleic acid (LA) metabolites 9-HODE, 13-HODE and 9,12,13-TriHOME and the arachidonic acid (AA)-derivatives 11-HETE and 12-HETE. We additionally found that the most abundant oxylipins in plasma were three of the five most abundant oxylipins in plaque, namely 11-HETE, 13-HODE, and 9-HODE. The studies reported here make the first step towards a comprehensive characterization of oxylipins as potentially translatable biomarkers of atherosclerosis.
Significance of ultrasound evaluation of carotid atherosclerotic plaque for diagnosing ischemic cerebrovascular disease
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
BACKGROUND: Carotid artery is the main source for craniocerebral blood supply. Its intimal plaque formation and arterial stenosis degree both are the risk factors for ischemic cerebrovascular disease.Therefore, the close relationship of carotid atherosclerotic plaque and ischemic cerebrovascular disease, and ultrasound evaluation of carotid atherosclerotic plaque have become the hot spot in studying ischemic cerebrovascular disease.OBJECTIVE: This study was to detect the degree of carotid atherosclerosis of ischemic cerebrovascular disease patients by ultrasonography, and to analyze the situation of carotid atherosclerosis and its relationship with clinic.DESIGN: Clinical randomized concurrent control experiment.SETTING: Lintong Convalescent Hospital of Lanzhou Military Area Command of Chinese PLA.PARTICIPANTS: Totally 60 outpatients and inpatients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease, 42 males and 18 females, admitted to Lintong Convalescent Hospital of Lanzhou Military Area Command of Chinese PLA between January 2006 and December 2006 were involved in the patient group. They met the diagnosis criteria of ischemic cerebrovascular disease constituted by the 4th Cerebrovascular Disease Conference in 1996, and were confirmed to suffer from ischemic cerebrovascular disease by skull CT and MRI. Another 20 subjects who received healthy examination concurrently in the same hospital, 12 males and 8 females, were involved in the control group. Informed consents of detected items were obtained from involved subjects.METHODS: The plaque thickness of mid portion, distal end and crotch of common carotid artery (CCA),internal carotid artery (ICA), external carotid artery (ECA) and vertebral artery (VA) of involved subjects,who received health examination was separately detected with color Doppler ultrasonograph (HDI-5000).Then, total integral of plaque was calculated. The intima-media thickness (IMT) was measured with two-dimensional ultrasonography. The inner diameter
Integrated analysis of microarray data of atherosclerotic plaques: modulation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system.
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Zhe Wang
Full Text Available Atherosclerosis is a typical complex multi-factorial disease and many molecules at different levels and pathways were involved in its development. Some studies have investigated the dysregulation in atherosclerosis at mRNA, miRNA or DNA methylation level, respectively. However, to our knowledge, the studies that integrated these data and revealed the abnormal networks of atherosclerosis have not been reported. Using microarray technology, we analyzed the omics data in atherosclerosis at mRNA, miRNA and DNA methylation levels. Our results demonstrated that the global DNA methylation and expression of miRNA/mRNA were significantly decreased in atherosclerotic plaque than in normal vascular tissue. The interaction network constructed using the integrative data revealed many genes, cellular processes and signaling pathways which were widely considered to play crucial roles in atherosclerosis and also revealed some genes, miRNAs or signaling pathways which have not been investigated in atherosclerosis until now (e.g. miR-519d and SNTB2. Moreover, the overall protein ubiquitination in atherosclerotic plaque was significantly increased. The proteasome activity was increased early but decreased in advanced atherosclerosis. Our study revealed many classic and novel genes and miRNAs involved in atherosclerosis and indicated the effects of ubiquitin-proteasome system on atherosclerosis might be closely related to the course of atherosclerosis. However, the efficacy of proteasome inhibitors in the treatment of atherosclerosis still needs more research.
Effect of Guanxinshutong capsule on the expression of matrix metalloproteinases-9 and tissue matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor-1 of atherosclerotic plaque in apoE-/- mice
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Objective To approach the possible mechanism of Guanxinshutong capsule on the progression and stability of atherosclerotic plaque through observing the effects of Guanxinshutong capsule on pathologic morphology and expression of tissue matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor-1(TIMP-1),matrix metalloproteinases-9(MMP-9)of atherosclerotic plaque in Apo E-/-mice model with experimental atherosclerosis.Methods The animals were fed
Characterization of signal properties in atherosclerotic plaque components by intravascular MRI.
Rogers, W J; Prichard, J W; Hu, Y L; Olson, P R; Benckart, D H; Kramer, C M; Vido, D A; Reichek, N
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is capable of distinguishing between atherosclerotic plaque components solely on the basis of biochemical differences. However, to date, the majority of plaque characterization has been performed by using high-field strength units or special coils, which are not clinically applicable. Thus, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate MRI properties in histologically verified plaque components in excised human carotid endarterectomy specimens with the use of a 5F catheter-based imaging coil, standard acquisition software, and a clinical scanner operating at 0.5 T. Human carotid endarterectomy specimens from 17 patients were imaged at 37 degrees C by use of an opposed solenoid intravascular radiofrequency coil integrated into a 5F double-lumen catheter interfaced to a 0.5-T General Electric interventional scanner. Cross-sectional intravascular MRI (156x250 microm in-plane resolution) that used different imaging parameters permitted the calculation of absolute T1and T2, the magnetization transfer contrast ratio, the magnitude of regional signal loss associated with an inversion recovery sequence (inversion ratio), and regional signal loss in gradient echo (gradient echo-to-spin echo ratio) in plaque components. Histological staining included hematoxylin and eosin, Masson's trichrome, Kossa, oil red O, and Gomori's iron stain. X-ray micrographs were also used to identify regions of calcium. Seven plaque components were evaluated: fibrous cap, smooth muscle cells, organizing thrombus, fresh thrombus, lipid, edema, and calcium. The magnetization transfer contrast ratio was significantly less in the fibrous cap (0.62+/-13) than in all other components (Psmooth muscle cells) were not significantly different between groups. In vitro intravascular MRI with catheter-based coils and standard software permits sufficient spatial resolution to visualize major plaque components. Pulse sequences that take advantage of differences in biochemical
Support vector machine based classification and mapping of atherosclerotic plaques using fluorescence lifetime imaging (Conference Presentation)
Fatakdawala, Hussain; Gorpas, Dimitris S.; Bec, Julien; Ma, Dinglong M.; Yankelevich, Diego R.; Bishop, John W.; Marcu, Laura
The progression of atherosclerosis in coronary vessels involves distinct pathological changes in the vessel wall. These changes manifest in the formation of a variety of plaque sub-types. The ability to detect and distinguish these plaques, especially thin-cap fibroatheromas (TCFA) may be relevant for guiding percutaneous coronary intervention as well as investigating new therapeutics. In this work we demonstrate the ability of fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIm) derived parameters (lifetime values from sub-bands 390/40 nm, 452/45 nm and 542/50 nm respectively) for generating classification maps for identifying eight different atherosclerotic plaque sub-types in ex vivo human coronary vessels. The classification was performed using a support vector machine based classifier that was built from data gathered from sixteen coronary vessels in a previous study. This classifier was validated in the current study using an independent set of FLIm data acquired from four additional coronary vessels with a new rotational FLIm system. Classification maps were compared to co-registered histological data. Results show that the classification maps allow identification of the eight different plaque sub-types despite the fact that new data was gathered with a different FLIm system. Regions with diffuse intimal thickening (n=10), fibrotic tissue (n=2) and thick-cap fibroatheroma (n=1) were correctly identified on the classification map. The ability to identify different plaque types using FLIm data alone may serve as a powerful clinical and research tool for studying atherosclerosis in animal models as well as in humans.
Effects of Low Carbohydrate High Protein (LCHP) diet on atherosclerotic plaque phenotype in ApoE/LDLR-/- mice: FT-IR and Raman imaging.
Wrobel, T P; Marzec, K M; Chlopicki, S; Maślak, E; Jasztal, A; Franczyk-Żarów, M; Czyżyńska-Cichoń, I; Moszkowski, T; Kostogrys, R B; Baranska, M
Low Carbohydrate High Protein (LCHP) diet displays pro-atherogenic effects, however, the exact mechanisms involved are still unclear. Here, with the use of vibrational imaging, such as Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and Raman (RS) spectroscopies, we characterize biochemical content of plaques in Brachiocephalic Arteries (BCA) from ApoE/LDLR(-/-) mice fed LCHP diet as compared to control, recomended by American Institute of Nutrition, AIN diet. FT-IR images were taken from 6-10 sections of BCA from each mice and were complemented with RS measurements with higher spatial resolution of chosen areas of plaque sections. In aortic plaques from LCHP fed ApoE/LDLR(-/-) mice, the content of cholesterol and cholesterol esters was increased, while that of proteins was decreased as evidenced by global FT-IR analysis. High resolution imaging by RS identified necrotic core/foam cells, lipids (including cholesterol crystals), calcium mineralization and fibrous cap. The decreased relative thickness of the outer fibrous cap and the presence of buried caps were prominent features of the plaques in ApoE/LDLR(-/-) mice fed LCHP diet. In conclusion, FT-IR and Raman-based imaging provided a complementary insight into the biochemical composition of the plaque suggesting that LCHP diet increased plaque cholesterol and cholesterol esters contents of atherosclerotic plaque, supporting the cholesterol-driven pathogenesis of LCHP-induced atherogenesis.
Neovascularization and coronary atherosclerotic plaque: cinematographic localization and quantitative histologic analysis.
Kamat, B R; Galli, S J; Barger, A C; Lainey, L L; Silverman, K J
A new technique was developed for analyzing the neovascularization associated with coronary artery atherosclerosis: cinematography during silicone polymer injection of the coronary arteries of fixed and cleared human hearts, followed by histologic analysis in routine and 1-micron-thick, Epon-embedded sections. Twenty-two hearts obtained at autopsy were studied. On the basis of cinematographic findings, individual regions of the coronary arteries were classified as negative, positive, or abundantly positive for neovascularization. Positive and abundantly positive areas, which invariably occurred in segments exhibiting changes of atherosclerosis, contained numerous small vessels in the adventitia and outer media (4.7 +/- 1.5 and 9.8 +/- 1.3 [SE] vessel profiles/artery cross-section in positive and abundantly positive areas, versus 1.0 +/- 0.6 in negative regions). Abundantly positive areas, which occurred in coronary artery segments demonstrating the most extensive atherosclerotic change, contained numerous small vessels in the inner media or in the plaque itself. Some of these microvessels were in close proximity to mast cells, which represent potentially rich sources of mediators affecting vascular tone and permeability. Vessels were not observed in the inner media or in atherosclerotic plaque in areas designated either positive or negative by cinematography. These findings show how our approach can be used both to define the three-dimensional, in situ configuration of coronary artery neovascularization and to characterize the histology of this process in detail. They also confirm previous work indicating that areas of coronary arteries involved by atherosclerosis frequently exhibit extensive neovascularization. PMID:2443438
HMGB1 induces secretion of matrix vesicles which participate in microcalcification of atherosclerotic plaques
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
CHEN Qiang; BEI Jun-jie; LIU Chuan; FENG Shi-bin; ZHAO Wei-bo; ZHOU Zhou; YU Zheng-ping; DU Xiao-jun; HU Hou-yuan
AIM:Early calcification of atherosclerotic plaques are colocalized with macrophage and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), a cytokine associated with biomineralizing process under physiological and pathological conditions .Our study aims to evaluate whether HMGB1 induces ectopic mineralization via promoting the secretion of matrix vesicles ( MVs) from macrophages .METHODS:HMGB1 was added to the medium of macrophages , the secretion of MVs in the supernatant was tested by flow cytometry analysis .The mineral deposition in calcifying medium was detected by Alizarin Red staining and von Kossa staining .Transmission electron microscopy showed the formation of hydroxyapatite crystals in MVs .Then we subcutaneous injection into mice with MVs to induce regional minera-lization.RESULTS:HMGB1 significantly promoted secretion of MVs from macrophages as raveled by flow cytometry analysis .TNAP activity, considered as a marker of MVs maturation , was higher in HMGB1-induced MVs compared to the control-MVs.HMGB1-MVs also led to mineral deposition in an in vitro MVs-collagen mineralization model .Subcutaneous injection into mice with MVs derived from HMGB1-treated cells showed a greater potential to initiate regional mineralization .Mechanistic experiments revealed that HMGB 1 activated neutral sphingomyelinase 2 ( nSMase2 ) that involved the receptor for advanced glycation end products ( RAGE ) and p38 MAPK (upstream of nSMase2).Inhibition of nSMase2 with GW4869 or p38 MAPK with SB-239063 prevented MVs secretion and min-eral deposition .CONCLUSIONS: HMGB1 induces MVs secretion from macrophages at least in part , via the RAGE/p38 MAPK/nSMase2 signaling pathway .Our findings thus reveal a novel mechanism by which HMGB 1 may participated in the early calcification of atherosclerotic plaques .
A method to compensate for the underestimation of collagen with polarized picrosirius red imaging in human artery atherosclerotic plaques
Greiner, C. A.; Grainger, S. J.; Su, J. L.; Madden, S. P.; Muller, J. E.
Although picrosirius red (PSR) is known to be in quantifying collagen under polarized light (PL), commonly used linearly PL can result in an underestimation of collagen, as some of the fibers may appear dark if aligned with the transmission axis of the polarizers. To address this, a sample may be imaged with circularly polarized light at the expense of higher background intensity. However, the quality and alignment of the microscope illumination optics, polarizers and waveplates can still produce imaging variability with circular polarization. A simpler technique was tested that minimized variability and background intensity with linear polarization by acquiring images at multiple angles of histology slide rotation to create a composite co-registered image, permitting the optimal semi-quantitative visualization of collagen. Linear polarization imaging was performed on PSR stained artery sections. By rotating the slide at 60° intervals while maintaining illumination, polarization and exposure parameters, 6 images were acquired for each section. A composite image was created from the 6 co-registered images, and comprised of the maximum pixel intensity at each point. Images from any of the 6 rotation positions consistently showed variation in PSR signal. A composite image compensates for this variability, without loss of spatial resolution. Additionally, grayscale analysis showed an increased intensity range of 15 - 50% with a linearly polarized composite image over a circularly polarized image after background correction, indicating better SNR. This proposed technique will be applied in the development of a near infrared spectroscopy algorithm to detect vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in vivo.
Effect of sexual steroids on the calcium content of aortic atherosclerotic plaque of oophorectomized rabbits
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J.M. Aldrighi
Full Text Available We determined the effect of conjugated equine estrogen plus medroxyprogesterone acetate on calcium content of aortic atherosclerotic lesions in oophorectomized adult New Zealand rabbits submitted to a cholesterol rich diet. Five groups of 10 animals each were studied: G1 = control, G2 = cholesterol diet only, G3 = diet plus conjugated equine estrogen (0.625 mg/day; G4 and G5 = diet, conjugated equine estrogen (0.625 mg/day plus medroxyprogesterone acetate (5 and 10 mg/day, respectively. Mean weight varied from 2.7 ± 0.27 to 3.1 ± 0.20 kg (P = 0.38 between groups at the beginning and 3.1 ± 0.27 to 3.5 ± 0.20 kg (P = 0.35 at the end of the experiment. Cholesterol and triglyceride levels were determined at the time of oophorectomy, 21 days after surgery (time 0, and at the end of follow-up of 90 days. The planimetric method was used to measure plaque and caryometric method for histopathologic examination of the aorta. Calcium content was determined by the method of von Kossa. A similar increase in cholesterol occurred in all treated groups without differences between them at the end of the study. Groups G4 and G5 had smaller areas of atherosclerotic lesions (2.33 ± 2.8 and 2.45 ± 2.1 cm², respectively than the groups receiving no progestogens (G2: 5.6 ± 4 and G3: 4.6 ± 2.8 cm²; P = 0.02. The relation between lesion area and total aorta area was smaller in groups treated with combined drugs compared to the groups receiving no progesterone (G4: 14.9 ± 13 and G5: 14.2 ± 13.4 vs G2: 35.8 ± 26 and G3: 25 ± 8 cm², respectively; P = 0.017. Oral conjugated equine estrogen (0.625 mg/day plus medroxyprogesterone acetate (5 or 10 mg/day provoked a greater reduction in atherosclerotic plaque area and calcium content in treated groups, suggesting a dose-dependent effect.
Delivery of negatively charged liposomes into the atherosclerotic plaque of apolipoprotein E-deficient mouse aortic tissue.
Zhaorigetu, Siqin; Rodriguez-Aguayo, Cristian; Sood, Anil K; Lopez-Berestein, Gabriel; Walton, Brian L
Liposomes have been used to diagnose and treat cancer and, to a lesser extent, cardiovascular disease. We previously showed the uptake of anionic liposomes into the atheromas of Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic rabbits within lipid pools. However, the cellular distribution of anionic liposomes in atherosclerotic plaque remains undescribed. In addition, how anionic liposomes are absorbed into atherosclerotic plaque is unclear. We investigated the uptake and distribution of anionic liposomes in atherosclerotic plaque in aortic tissues from apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE(-/-)) mice. To facilitate the tracking of liposomes, we used liposomes containing fluorescently labeled non-silencing small interfering RNA. Confocal microscopy analysis showed the uptake of anionic liposomes into atherosclerotic plaque and colocalization with macrophages. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed anionic liposomal accumulation in macrophages. To investigate how anionic liposomes cross the local endothelial barrier, we examined the role of clathrin-mediated endocytosis in human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) treated with or without the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. Pretreatment with amantadine, an inhibitor of clathrin-mediated endocytosis, significantly decreased liposomal uptake in HCAECs treated with or without TNF-α by 77% and 46%, respectively. Immunoblot analysis showed that endogenous clathrin expression was significantly increased in HCAECs stimulated with TNF-α but was inhibited by amantadine. These studies indicated that clathrin-mediated endocytosis is partly responsible for the uptake of liposomes by endothelial cells. Our results suggest that anionic liposomes target macrophage-rich areas of vulnerable plaque in ApoE(-)(/)(-) mice; this finding may lead to the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for treating vulnerable plaque in humans.
{sup 18}F-FDG PET and intravascular ultrasonography (IVUS) images compared with histology of atherosclerotic plaques: {sup 18}F-FDG accumulates in foamy macrophages
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Ishino, Seigo [Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Fujisawa (Japan); Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Biomolecular Research Laboratories, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Fujisawa, Kanagawa (Japan); Ogawa, Mikako; Magata, Yasuhiro [Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Medical Photonics Research Center, Hamamatsu (Japan); Mori, Ikuo; Nishimura, Satoshi; Ikeda, Shota; Sugita, Taku; Oikawa, Tatsuo; Horiguchi, Takashi [Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited, Pharmaceutical Research Division, Fujisawa (Japan)
Intravascular ultrasonography (IVUS) and {sup 18}F-FDG PET have been used to evaluate the efficacy of antiatherosclerosis drugs. These two modalities image different characteristics of atherosclerotic plaques, and a comparison of IVUS and PET images with histology has not been performed. The aim of this study was to align IVUS and PET images using anatomic landmarks in Watanabe heritable hyperlipidaemic (WHHL) rabbits, enabling comparison of their depiction of aortic atherosclerosis. Cellular {sup 18}F-FDG localization was evaluated by {sup 3}H-FDG microautoradiography (micro-ARG). A total of 19 WHHL rabbits (7 months of age) were divided into three groups: baseline (n = 6), 3 months (n = 4), and 6 months (n = 9). PET, IVUS and histological images of the same aortic segments were analysed. Infiltration by foamy macrophages was scored from 0 to IV using haematoxylin and eosin (H and E) and antimacrophage immunohistochemical staining, and compared with {sup 3}H-FDG micro-ARG findings in two additional WHHL rabbits. IVUS images did not identify foamy macrophage deposition but revealed the area of intimal lesions (r = 0.87). {sup 18}F-FDG PET revealed foamy macrophage distribution in the plaques. The intensity of {sup 18}F-FDG uptake was correlated positively with the degree of foamy macrophage infiltration. Micro-ARG showed identical {sup 3}H-FDG accumulation in the foamy macrophages surrounding the lipid core of the plaques. F-FDG PET localized and quantified the degree of infiltration of foamy macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions. IVUS defined the size of lesions. {sup 18}F-FDG PET is a promising imaging technique for evaluating atherosclerosis and for monitoring changes in the composition of atherosclerotic plaques affecting their stability. (orig.)
Selective removal of cholesterol ester in atherosclerotic plaque using nanosecond pulsed laser at 5.75 μm
Ishii, K.; Tsukimoto, H.; Hazama, H.; Awazu, K.
Laser angioplasty, for example XeCl excimer laser angioplasty, has gained more attention in addition to conventional methods of surgical and interventional treatment of atherosclerotic diseases such as bypass operation and balloon dilatation. Low degrees of thermal damage after ablation of atherosclerotic lesions have been achieved by XeCl excimer laser at 308 nm. However, in most cases, laser ablation is not selective and normal arterial wall is also damaged. To avoid complications such as severe dissections or perforation of the arterial wall in an angioplasty, a laser light source with high ablation efficiency but low arterial wall injury is desirable. At atherosclerotic lesions, cholesterol accumulates on the tunica intima by establishing an ester bond with fatty acids such as oleic acid, and thus cholesterol ester is the main component of atherosclerotic plaques. Mid-infrared pulsed laser at 5.75 μm is selectively well absorbed in C=O stretching vibration mode of ester bonds. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of nanosecond pulsed laser at 5.75 μm irradiation of cholesterol ester in atherosclerotic plaques. In this study, we used a mid-infrared tunable solid-state laser which is operated by difference frequency generation method, with a wavelength of 5.75 μm, a pulse width of 5 nsec and a pulse duration of 10 Hz. It was confirmed that non-invasive interaction to normal thoracic aortas could be induce by the parameters, the wavelength of 5.75 μm, the average power densities of 35 W/cm2 and the irradiation time under 10 sec. This study shows that nanosecond pulsed laser irradiations at 5.75 μm provide an alternative laser light source as an effectively cutting, less traumatic tool for removal of atherosclerotic plaque.
Cross-reacting antibacterial auto-antibodies are produced within coronary atherosclerotic plaques of acute coronary syndrome patients.
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Filippo Canducci
Full Text Available Coronary atherosclerosis, the main condition predisposing to acute myocardial infarction, has an inflammatory component caused by stimuli that are yet unknown. We molecularly investigated the nature of the immune response within human coronary lesion in four coronary plaques obtained by endoluminal atherectomy from four patients. We constructed phage-display libraries containing the IgG1/kappa antibody fragments produced by B-lymphocytes present in each plaque. By immunoaffinity, we selected from these libraries a monoclonal antibody, arbitrarily named Fab7816, able to react both with coronary and carotid atherosclerotic tissue samples. We also demonstrated by confocal microscopy that this monoclonal antibody recognized human transgelin type 1, a cytoskeleton protein involved in atherogenesis, and that it co-localized with fibrocyte-like cells transgelin+, CD68+, CD45+ in human sections of coronary and carotid plaques. In vitro fibrocytes obtained by differentiating CD14+ cells isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells also interacted with Fab7816, thus supporting the hypothesis of a specific recognition of fibrocytes into the atherosclerotic lesions. Interestingly, the same antibody, cross-reacted with the outer membrane proteins of Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumoniae (and possibly with homologous proteins of other enterobacteriaceae present in the microbiota. From all the other three libraries, we were able to clone, by immunoaffinity selection, human monoclonal antibodies cross-reacting with bacterial outer membrane proteins and with transgelin. These findings demonstrated that in human atherosclerotic plaques a local cross-reactive immune response takes place.
Identifying Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaque in Rabbits Using DMSA-USPIO Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Investigate the Effect of Atorvastatin.
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Chunmei Qi
Full Text Available Rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque is the primary cause of acute cardiovascular and cerebrovascular syndromes. Early and non-invasive detection of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques (VP would be significant in preventing some aspects of these syndromes. As a new contrast agent, dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA modified ultra-small super paramagnetic iron oxide (USPIO was synthesized and used to identify VP and rupture plaque by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI.Atherosclerosis was induced in male New Zealand White rabbits by feeding a high cholesterol diet (n = 30. Group A with atherosclerosis plaque (n = 10 were controls. VP was established in groups B (n = 10 and C (n = 10 using balloon-induced endothelial injury of the abdominal aorta. Adenovirus-carrying p53 genes were injected into the aortic segments rich in plaques after 8 weeks. Group C was treated with atorvastatin for 8 weeks. Sixteen weeks later, all rabbits underwent pharmacological triggering, and imaging were taken daily for 5 d after DMSA-USPIO infusion. At the first day and before being killed, serum MMP-9, sCD40L, and other lipid indicators were measured.DMSA-USPIO particles accumulated in VP and rupture plaques. Rupture plaques appeared as areas of hyper-intensity on DMSA-USPIO enhanced MRI, especially T2*-weighted sequences, with a signal strength peaking at 96 h. The group given atorvastatin showed few DMSA-USPIO particles and had lower levels of serum indicators. MMP-9 and sCD40L levels in group B were significantly higher than in the other 2 groups (P <0.05.After successfully establishing a VP model in rabbits, DMSA-USPIO was used to enhance MRI for clear identification of plaque inflammation and rupture. Rupture plaques were detectable in this way probably due to an activating inflammatory process. Atorvastatin reduced the inflammatory response and stabilizing VP possibly by decreasing MMP-9 and sCD40L levels.
Psychological stress increases expression of aortic plaque intercellular adhesion molecule-1 and serum inflammatory cytokines in atherosclerotic rabbit model
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Muwei Li; Xianpei Wang; Lei Yang; Chuanyu Gao; Yexin Ma
Plaque rupture,platelet aggregation,and thrombogenesis are the main mechanisms of acute coronary syndrome (ACS),and inflammation factors play key roles in plaque unstability.Psychological stress promotes acute inflammatory response,leading to increased circulating levels of C-reactive protein (CRP),IL-6,and serum intercellular adhesion molecule (sICAM)-1.But it is not clear that whether psychological stress has a direct effect on atherosclerotic plaque stability.The purpose of this study was to investigate effects of chronic psychological stress on inflammatory marker (ICAM-1 ) in atherosclerotic plaque,and inflammatory markers in peripheral blood.Materials and methods Sixty male rabbits were randomized into 2 groups:the control group (n =10) and the atherosclerotic group (n =50).The latter were fed on high fatty diet and were given a large dose of vitamin D3 (3 600 000IU/kg) via intraperitoneal injection.After 8 weeks,the atherosclerotic model was estaslished.Then the 50 atherosclerotic model rabbits were divided into 3 subgroups:no-stress subgroup (n = 16),physiological stress subgroup (n = 16) and psychological stress subgroup (n =18).In physiological stress subgroup and psychological stress subgroup,drinking was cut from twice a day to once a day.At the same time,psychological stress subgroup was given empty bottle stress,and this process lasted for 2 weeks.One hour after the last stress,the blood samples were collected and the serum levels of CRP,IL-6 amd ICAM-1 were tested by radioimmunoassay or enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.The aorta and heart were extracted for pathology examination,and the express of ICAM-1 was tested by immunohistochemical examination.Results (1) After effective atherosclerotic animal model construction,the expression of ICAM-1 in aorta was higher in atherosclerotic group than that in control group (P<0.01),and was notably higher in psychological stress subgroup than that in no-stress subgroup or in physiological stress subgroup (2
In vivo detection of activated platelets allows characterizing rupture of atherosclerotic plaques with molecular magnetic resonance imaging in mice.
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Dominik von Elverfeldt
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Early and non-invasive detection of platelets on micro atherothrombosis provides a means to identify unstable plaque and thereby allowing prophylactic treatment towards prevention of stroke or myocardial infarction. Molecular magnetic resonance imaging (mMRI of activated platelets as early markers of plaque rupture using targeted contrast agents is a promising strategy. In this study, we aim to specifically image activated platelets in murine atherothrombosis by in vivo mMRI, using a dedicated animal model of plaque rupture. METHODS: An antibody targeting ligand-induced binding sites (LIBS on the glycoprotein IIb/IIIa-receptor of activated platelets was conjugated to microparticles of iron oxide (MPIO to form the LIBS-MPIO contrast agent causing a signal-extinction in T2*-weighted MRI. ApoE(-/- mice (60 weeks-old were fed a high fat diet for 5 weeks. Using a small needle, the surface of their carotid plaques was scratched under blood flow to induce atherothrombosis. In vivo 9.4 Tesla MRI was performed before and repetitively after intravenous injection of either LIBS-MPIO versus non-targeted-MPIO. RESULTS: LIBS-MPIO injected animals showed a significant signal extinction (p<0.05 in MRI, corresponding to the site of plaque rupture and atherothrombosis in histology. The signal attenuation was effective for atherothrombosis occupying ≥ 2% of the vascular lumen. Histology further confirmed significant binding of LIBS-MPIO compared to control-MPIO on the thrombus developing on the surface of ruptured plaques (p<0.01. CONCLUSION: in vivo mMRI detected activated platelets on mechanically ruptured atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE(-/- mice with a high sensititvity. This imaging technology represents a unique opportunity for noninvasive detection of atherothrombosis and the identification of unstable atherosclerotic plaques with the ultimate promise to prevent strokes and myocardial infarctions.
Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules reduce atherogenesis and promote the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 in rabbit atherosclerotic plaque macrophages and the liver
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Qing Sun
Conclusions: Tiaozhi Tongmai Granules appear to have an anti-atherogenic effect that is most likely mediated by simultaneously upregulating the protein expression of ABCA1 in rabbit atherosclerotic plaque macrophages and in the liver.
Cadmium exposure and atherosclerotic carotid plaques –Results from the Malmö diet and Cancer study
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Fagerberg, Björn, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, SE-413 45 Gothenburg (Sweden); Barregard, Lars, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and University of Gothenburg, SE 413 45 Gothenburg (Sweden); Sallsten, Gerd, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and University of Gothenburg, SE 413 45 Gothenburg (Sweden); Forsgard, Niklas, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, SE-413 45 Gothenburg (Sweden); Östling, Gerd, E-mail: email@example.com [Cardiovascular Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, CRC, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, Skane University Hospital, Malmö, 205 02 Malmö (Sweden); Persson, Margaretha, E-mail: email@example.com [Cardiovascular Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, CRC, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, Skane University Hospital, Malmö, 205 02 Malmö (Sweden); Borné, Yan, E-mail: email@example.com [Cardiovascular Epidemiology, Department of Clinical Sciences in Malmö, CRC, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, Skane University Hospital, Malmö, 205 02 Malmö (Sweden); and others
Background: Epidemiological studies indicate that cadmium exposure through diet and smoking is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. There are few data on the relationship between cadmium and plaques, the hallmark of underlying atherosclerotic disease. Objectives: To examine the association between exposure to cadmium and the prevalence and size of atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery. Methods: A population sample of 4639 Swedish middle-aged women and men was examined in 1991–1994. Carotid plaque was determined by B-mode ultrasound. Cadmium in blood was analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results: Comparing quartile 4 with quartile 1 of blood cadmium, the odds ratio (OR) for prevalence of any plaque was 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.6–2.2) after adjustment for sex and, age; 1.4 (1.1–1.8) after additional adjustment for smoking status; 1.4 (1.1–1.7) after the addition of education level and life style factors; 1.3 (1.03–1.8) after additional adjustment for risk factors and predictors of cardiovascular disease. No effect modification by sex was found in the cadmium-related prevalence of plaques. Similarly, ORs for the prevalence of small and large plaques were after full adjustment 1.4 (1.0–2.1) and 1.4 (0.9–2.0), respectively. The subgroup of never smokers showed no association between cadmium and atherosclerotic plaques. Conclusions: These results extend previous studies on cadmium exposure and clinical cardiovascular events by adding data on the association between cadmium and underlying atherosclerosis in humans. The role of smoking remains unclear. It may both cause residual confounding and be a source of pro-atherogenic cadmium exposure. - Highlights: • Blood cadmium level is associated with atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery. • The results extend previous knowledge of cadmium exposure and clinical events. • The role of smoking remains unclear.
Cadmium exposure and atherosclerotic carotid plaques –Results from the Malmö diet and Cancer study
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Background: Epidemiological studies indicate that cadmium exposure through diet and smoking is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. There are few data on the relationship between cadmium and plaques, the hallmark of underlying atherosclerotic disease. Objectives: To examine the association between exposure to cadmium and the prevalence and size of atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery. Methods: A population sample of 4639 Swedish middle-aged women and men was examined in 1991–1994. Carotid plaque was determined by B-mode ultrasound. Cadmium in blood was analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Results: Comparing quartile 4 with quartile 1 of blood cadmium, the odds ratio (OR) for prevalence of any plaque was 1.9 (95% confidence interval 1.6–2.2) after adjustment for sex and, age; 1.4 (1.1–1.8) after additional adjustment for smoking status; 1.4 (1.1–1.7) after the addition of education level and life style factors; 1.3 (1.03–1.8) after additional adjustment for risk factors and predictors of cardiovascular disease. No effect modification by sex was found in the cadmium-related prevalence of plaques. Similarly, ORs for the prevalence of small and large plaques were after full adjustment 1.4 (1.0–2.1) and 1.4 (0.9–2.0), respectively. The subgroup of never smokers showed no association between cadmium and atherosclerotic plaques. Conclusions: These results extend previous studies on cadmium exposure and clinical cardiovascular events by adding data on the association between cadmium and underlying atherosclerosis in humans. The role of smoking remains unclear. It may both cause residual confounding and be a source of pro-atherogenic cadmium exposure. - Highlights: • Blood cadmium level is associated with atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery. • The results extend previous knowledge of cadmium exposure and clinical events. • The role of smoking remains unclear
Correction of lumen contrast-enhancement influence on non-calcified coronary atherosclerotic plaque quantification on CT.
Kristanto, Wisnumurti; Tuncay, Volkan; Vliegenthart, Rozemarijn; van Ooijen, Peter M A; Oudkerk, Matthijs
Lumen contrast-enhancement influences non-calcified atherosclerotic plaque Hounsfield-unit (HU) values in computed tomography (CT). This study aimed to construct and validate an algorithm to correct for this influence. Three coronary vessel phantoms with 1, 2, and 4 mm circular hollow lumina; with normal and plaque-infested walls were scanned simultaneously in oil using a dual-source CT scanner. Scanning was repeated as the lumina were alternately filled with water and four contrast solutions (100-400 HU, at 100 HU intervals). Images were reconstructed at 0.4 mm x-y pixel size. Pixel-by-pixel comparisons of contrast-enhanced and non-contrast-enhanced images confirmed exponential declining patterns in lumen contrast-enhancement influence on wall HU-values from the lumen border (y = Ae(-λx) + c). The median difference of the inside and outside 2-pixel radius part of the contrast-enhanced coronary phantom wall to the reference (non-contrast-enhanced images) was 45 and 2 HU, respectively. Based on the lumen contrast-enhancement influence patterns, a generalized correction algorithm was formulated. Application of the generalized correction algorithm to the inside 2-pixel radius part of the wall reduced the median difference to the reference to 4 HU. In conclusion, lumen contrast-enhancement influence on the vessel wall can be defined by an exponential approximation, allowing correction of the CT density of the vessel wall closest to the lumen. With this correction, a more accurate determination of vessel wall composition can be made. PMID:25326412
Inhibition of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 reduces complex coronary atherosclerotic plaque development
Wilensky, Robert L; Shi, Yi; Mohler, Emile R; Hamamdzic, Damir; Burgert, Mark E; Li, Jun; Postle, Anthony; Fenning, Robert S; Bollinger, James G; Hoffman, Bryan E; Pelchovitz, Daniel J; Yang, Jisheng; Mirabile, Rosanna C; Webb, Christine L; Zhang, LeFeng; Zhang, Ping; Gelb, Michael H; Walker, Max C; Zalewski, Andrew; Macphee, Colin H
Increased lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) activity is associated with increased risk of cardiac events, but it is not known whether Lp-PLA2 is a causative agent. Here we show that selective inhibition of Lp-PLA2 with darapladib reduced development of advanced coronary atherosclerosis in diabetic and hypercholesterolemic swine. Darapladib markedly inhibited plasma and lesion Lp-PLA2 activity and reduced lesion lysophosphatidylcholine content. Analysis of coronary gene expression showed that darapladib exerted a general anti-inflammatory action, substantially reducing the expression of 24 genes associated with macrophage and T lymphocyte functioning. Darapladib treatment resulted in a considerable decrease in plaque area and, notably, a markedly reduced necrotic core area and reduced medial destruction, resulting in fewer lesions with an unstable phenotype. These data show that selective inhibition of Lp-PLA2 inhibits progression to advanced coronary atherosclerotic lesions and confirms a crucial role of vascular inflammation independent from hypercholesterolemia in the development of lesions implicated in the pathogenesis of myocardial infarction and stroke. PMID:18806801
Copper and zinc concentrations in atherosclerotic plaque and serum in relation to lipid metabolism in patients with carotid atherosclerosis
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Tasić Nebojša M.
Full Text Available Background/Aim. Some oligoelements are now investigated as possibly having a role in atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to compare the concentrations of copper and zinc in the serum and carotid plaque and parameters of lipid metabolism in patients with different morphology of carotid atherosclerotic plaque. Methods. Carotid endarterectomy due to the significant atherosclerotic stenosis was performed in 91 patients (mean age 64 ± 7. The control group consisted of 27 patients (mean age 58 ± 9, without carotid atherosclerosis. Atheroscletoric plaques were divided into four morphological groups, according to ultrasonic and intraoperative characteristics. Copper and zinc concentrations in the plaque, carotid artery and serum were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Results. Serum copper concentrations were statistically significantly higher in the patients with hemorrhagic in comparison to those with calcified plaque (1.2 ± 0.9 μmol/L vs 0.7 ± 0.2 μmol/L, respectively; p = 0.021. Zinc concentrations were statistically significantly lower in plaques of the patients with fibrolipid in comparison to those with calcified plaques (22.1 ± 16.3 μg/g vs 38.4 ± 25.8 μg/g, respectively; p = 0.024. A negative significant correlation was found for zinc and triglycerides in the serum in all the patients (r = -0.52, p = 0.025. In the control group we also demonstrated a positive significant correlation for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and copper in the serum (r = 0.54, p = 0.04. Conclusion. The data obtained in the current study are consistent with the hypothesis that high copper and lower zinc levels may contribute to atherosclerosis and its sequelae as factors in a multifactorial disease. Further studies are necessary in order to conclude whether high concentration of copper and zinc in the serum could be risk factors for atherosclesrosis.
An imbalance between specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators and pro-inflammatory leukotrienes promotes instability of atherosclerotic plaques
Fredman, Gabrielle; Hellmann, Jason; Proto, Jonathan D.; Kuriakose, George; Colas, Romain A.; Dorweiler, Bernhard; Connolly, E. Sander; Solomon, Robert; Jones, David M.; Heyer, Eric J.; Spite, Matthew; Tabas, Ira
Chronic unresolved inflammation plays a causal role in the development of advanced atherosclerosis, but the mechanisms that prevent resolution in atherosclerosis remain unclear. Here, we use targeted mass spectrometry to identify specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators (SPM) in histologically-defined stable and vulnerable regions of human carotid atherosclerotic plaques. The levels of SPMs, particularly resolvin D1 (RvD1), and the ratio of SPMs to pro-inflammatory leukotriene B4 (LTB4), are significantly decreased in the vulnerable regions. SPMs are also decreased in advanced plaques of fat-fed Ldlr−/− mice. Administration of RvD1 to these mice during plaque progression restores the RvD1:LTB4 ratio to that of less advanced lesions and promotes plaque stability, including decreased lesional oxidative stress and necrosis, improved lesional efferocytosis, and thicker fibrous caps. These findings provide molecular support for the concept that defective inflammation resolution contributes to the formation of clinically dangerous plaques and offer a mechanistic rationale for SPM therapy to promote plaque stability. PMID:27659679
Vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaques is associated with type I interferon in a murine model of lupus and atherosclerosis.
Zhang, C Y; Qu, B; Ye, P; Li, J; Bao, C D
This study aimed to investigate the relationship between type I interferon (IFN-I) and plaque stability in pristane-treated apolipoprotein E-knockout (ApoE(-/-)) mice. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) and extractable nuclear antigen antibody (ENA) levels were measured by immunofluorescence and enzyme-linked immunospot assay. Atherosclerotic plaques were detected by Sirius red/fast green staining. Cell apoptosis was detected by terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick-end labeling. Gene expression was determined by real-time PCR analyses. We found that pristane-treated ApoE(-/-) mice developed a lupus-like syndrome characterized by an increased production of serum ANA and ENA. Pristane treatment decreased the collagen content and increased the number of apoptotic cells in plaques. Moreover, IFN-induced ISG15, IFIT1-1, and IFIT1-2 gene expression was increased in peripheral blood cells and aortic plaques. An IFN-α-stimulated macrophage supernatant inhibited collagen type I, alpha 1 gene expression in vascular smooth muscle cells. We concluded that the vulnerability of plaques was associated with the activation of IFN-I in pristane-treated ApoE(-/-) mice. Thus, we speculated that the higher prevalence of cardiovascular events in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus could be due to plaque instability. PMID:26600548
Lipid volume fraction in atherosclerotic plaque phantoms classified under saline conditions by multispectral angioscopy at near-infrared wavelengths around 1200 nm.
Matsui, Daichi; Ishii, Katsunori; Awazu, Kunio
To identify high-risk atherosclerotic lesions, we require detailed information on the stability of atherosclerotic plaques. In this study, we quantitatively classified the lipid volume fractions in atherosclerotic plaque phantoms by a novel angioscope combined with near-infrared multispectral imaging. The multispectral angioscope was operated at peak absorption wavelengths of lipid in vulnerable plaques (1150, 1200, and 1300 nm) and at lower absorption wavelengths of water. The potential of the multispectral angioscope was demonstrated in atherosclerotic plaque phantoms containing 10-60 vol.% lipid and immersed in saline solution. The acquired multispectral data were processed by a spectral angle mapper algorithm, which enhanced the simulated plaque areas. Consequently, we classified the lipid volume fractions into five categories (0-5, 5-15, 15-30, 30-50, and 50-60 vol.%). Multispectral angioscopy at wavelengths around 1200 nm is a powerful tool for quantitatively evaluating the stability of atherosclerotic plaques based on the lipid volume fractions. PMID:26861978
Selective removal of cholesteryl ester in atherosclerotic plaque by nanosecond pulsed laser at 5.75 μm for less-invasive laser angioplasty
Ishii, Katsunori; Tsukimoto, Hideki; Hazama, Hisanao; Awazu, Kunio
Laser angioplasty, for example XeCl excimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA), has gained more attention for the treatment of serious stenosis blocked by plaque. Low degrees of thermal damage after ablation of atherosclerotic plaques have been achieved by ELCA. However, the large number of risks associated with the procedure, for example, dissections or perforations of the coronary arteries limits its application. A laser treatment technique with high ablation efficiency but low arterial wall injury is desirable. Mid-infrared laser with a wavelength of 5.75 µm is selectively well absorbed in C=O stretching vibration mode of ester bonds in cholesteryl ester. The purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of nanosecond pulsed laser at 5.75 µm irradiation for atherosclerotic plaques. We made a study on the irradiation effect to atherosclerotic plaques in tunica intima in a wet condition. In this study, we used a mid-infrared tunable solid-state laser which is operated by difference-frequency generation, with a wavelength of 5.75 µm, a pulse width of 5 ns and a pulse duration of 10 Hz as a treatment light source, and a thoracic aorta of WHHLMI rabbit as an atherosclerosis model. As a result, less-invasive interaction parameters for removing atherosclerotic plaques were confirmed. This study shows that the nanosecond pulsed laser irradiation at 5.75 µm is a powerful tool for selective and less-invasive treatment of atherosclerotic plaques.
Selective removal of atherosclerotic plaque with a quantum cascade laser in the 5.7 µm wavelength range
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Atherosclerotic plaques consist mainly of cholesteryl esters, and the C=O stretching vibration mode of cholesteryl esters strongly absorbs radiation at a wavelength of 5.75 µm. For clinical application of less-invasive laser angioplasty with 5.75 µm, a compact laser is required. Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are semiconductor lasers that can emit radiation in the mid-IR range. In this study, the potential of the QCL for less-invasive laser angioplasty was evaluated. At the average power density of 180 W/cm2, the atherosclerotic aorta was ablated for the irradiation time of 1 s or more, whereas the normal aorta was ablated for more than 10 s. This demonstrates that selective ablation of the atherosclerotic aorta was achieved. However, strong coagulation and carbonization were observed. For reducing thermal effects, improving the pulse structure is required. In conclusion, the QCL achieved the selective ablation of the atherosclerotic lesions, which indicates the potential of the QCL. (author)
Comparison between MDCT and Grayscale IVUS in a Quantitative Analysis of Coronary Lumen in Segments with or without Atherosclerotic Plaques
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Falcão, João L. A. A.; Falcão, Breno A. A. [Heart Institute (InCor), University of São Paulo Medical School (USP), São Paulo, SP (Brazil); Gurudevan, Swaminatha V. [Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, California, USA (United States); Campos, Carlos M.; Silva, Expedito R.; Kalil-Filho, Roberto; Rochitte, Carlos E.; Shiozaki, Afonso A.; Coelho-Filho, Otavio R.; Lemos, Pedro A. [Heart Institute (InCor), University of São Paulo Medical School (USP), São Paulo, SP (Brazil)
The diagnostic accuracy of 64-slice MDCT in comparison with IVUS has been poorly described and is mainly restricted to reports analyzing segments with documented atherosclerotic plaques. We compared 64-slice multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) with gray scale intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) for the evaluation of coronary lumen dimensions in the context of a comprehensive analysis, including segments with absent or mild disease. The 64-slice MDCT was performed within 72 h before the IVUS imaging, which was obtained for at least one coronary, regardless of the presence of luminal stenosis at angiography. A total of 21 patients were included, with 70 imaged vessels (total length 114.6 ± 38.3 mm per patient). A coronary plaque was diagnosed in segments with plaque burden > 40%. At patient, vessel, and segment levels, average lumen area, minimal lumen area, and minimal lumen diameter were highly correlated between IVUS and 64-slice MDCT (p < 0.01). However, 64-slice MDCT tended to underestimate the lumen size with a relatively wide dispersion of the differences. The comparison between 64-slice MDCT and IVUS lumen measurements was not substantially affected by the presence or absence of an underlying plaque. In addition, 64-slice MDCT showed good global accuracy for the detection of IVUS parameters associated with flow-limiting lesions. In a comprehensive, multi-territory, and whole-artery analysis, the assessment of coronary lumen by 64-slice MDCT compared with coronary IVUS showed a good overall diagnostic ability, regardless of the presence or absence of underlying atherosclerotic plaques.
Clinical feasibility of 3D automated coronary atherosclerotic plaque quantification algorithm on coronary computed tomography angiography: Comparison with intravascular ultrasound
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Park, Hyung-Bok [Yonsei University Health System, Yonsei-Cedar Sinai Integrative Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Myongji Hospital, Division of Cardiology, Cardiovascular Center, Goyang (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Byoung Kwon [Yonsei University College of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Shin, Sanghoon [Yonsei University Health System, Yonsei-Cedar Sinai Integrative Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); National Health Insurance Corporation Ilsan Hospital, Division of Cardiology, Goyang (Korea, Republic of); Heo, Ran; Chang, Hyuk-Jae; Chung, Namsik [Yonsei University Health System, Yonsei-Cedar Sinai Integrative Cardiovascular Imaging Research Center, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Yonsei University Health System, Division of Cardiology, Severance Cardiovascular Hospital, Seoul (Korea, Republic of); Arsanjani, Reza [Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Departments of Imaging and Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute, Los Angeles, CA (United States); Kitslaar, Pieter H. [Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Radiology, Division of Image Processing, Leiden (Netherlands); Medis medical Imaging Systems B.V., Leiden (Netherlands); Broersen, Alexander; Dijkstra, Jouke [Leiden University Medical Center, Department of Radiology, Division of Image Processing, Leiden (Netherlands); Ahn, Sung Gyun [Yonsei University Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Division of Cardiology, Wonju (Korea, Republic of); Min, James K. [New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Institute for Cardiovascular Imaging, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, NY (United States); Hong, Myeong-Ki; Jang, Yangsoo [Yonsei University Health System, Division of Cardiology, Severance Cardiovascular Hospital, Seoul (Korea, Republic of)
To evaluate the diagnostic performance of automated coronary atherosclerotic plaque quantification (QCT) by different users (expert/non-expert/automatic). One hundred fifty coronary artery segments from 142 patients who underwent coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) and intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) were analyzed. Minimal lumen area (MLA), maximal lumen area stenosis percentage (%AS), mean plaque burden percentage (%PB), and plaque volume were measured semi-automatically by expert, non-expert, and fully automatic QCT analyses, and then compared to IVUS. Between IVUS and expert QCT analysis, the correlation coefficients (r) for the MLA, %AS, %PB, and plaque volume were excellent: 0.89 (p < 0.001), 0.84 (p < 0.001), 0.91 (p < 0.001), and 0.94 (p < 0.001), respectively. There were no significant differences in the mean parameters (all p values >0.05) except %AS (p = 0.01). The automatic QCT analysis showed comparable performance to non-expert QCT analysis, showing correlation coefficients (r) of the MLA (0.80 vs. 0.82), %AS (0.82 vs. 0.80), %PB (0.84 vs. 0.73), and plaque volume (0.84 vs. 0.79) when they were compared to IVUS, respectively. Fully automatic QCT analysis showed clinical utility compared with IVUS, as well as a compelling performance when compared with semiautomatic analyses. (orig.)
Atherosclerotic Plaque Inflammation Varies Between Vascular Sites and Correlates With Response to Inhibition of Lipoprotein‐Associated Phospholipase A2
Fenning, Robert S.; Burgert, Mark E.; Hamamdzic, Damir; Peyster, Eliot G.; Mohler, Emile R.; Kangovi, Shreya; Jucker, Beat M.; Lenhard, Stephen C.; Macphee, Colin H.; Wilensky, Robert L.
Background Despite systemic exposure to risk factors, the circulatory system develops varying patterns of atherosclerosis for unclear reasons. In a porcine model, we investigated the relationship between site‐specific lesion development and inflammatory pathways involved in the coronary arteries (CORs) and distal abdominal aortas (AAs). Methods and Results Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypercholesterolemia (HC) were induced in 37 pigs with 3 healthy controls. Site‐specific plaque development was studied by comparing plaque severity, macrophage infiltration, and inflammatory gene expression between CORs and AAs of 17 DM/HC pigs. To assess the role of lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (Lp‐PLA2) in plaque development, 20 DM/HC pigs were treated with the Lp‐PLA2 inhibitor darapladib and compared with the 17 DM/HC untreated pigs. DM/HC caused site‐specific differences in plaque severity. In the AAs, normalized plaque area was 4.4‐fold higher (P<0.001) and there were more fibroatheromas (9 of the 17 animals had a fibroatheroma in the AA and not the COR, P=0.004), while normalized macrophage staining area was 1.5‐fold higher (P=0.011) compared with CORs. DM/HC caused differential expression of 8 of 87 atherosclerotic genes studied, including 3 important in inflammation with higher expression in the CORs. Darapladib‐induced attenuation of normalized plaque area was site‐specific, as CORs responded 2.9‐fold more than AAs (P=0.045). Conclusions While plaque severity was worse in the AAs, inflammatory genes and inflammatory pathways that use Lp‐PLA2 were more important in the CORs. Our results suggest fundamental differences in inflammation between vascular sites, an important finding for the development of novel anti‐inflammatory therapeutics. PMID:25672369
Attenuation-based characterization of coronary atherosclerotic plaque: Comparison of dual source and dual energy CT with single-source CT and histopathology
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Objective: To compare different CT acquisition techniques regarding for attenuation-based characterization of coronary atherosclerotic plaques using histopathology as the standard of reference. Materials and methods: In a post mortem study 17 human hearts were studied with dual-source CT (DSCT) and dual energy CT (DECT) mode on a DSCT as well as with 16-slice single-source CT (SSCT). At autopsy, atherosclerotic lesions were cut at 5 μm sections. Histopathologic classification of the plaques according to the American Heart Association (AHA) criteria was performed by two pathologists. Attenuation values of all plaques were measured in DSCT, DECT and SSCT studies, respectively and classified based on attenuation according to modified AHA criteria. Results: 58 coronary plaques were identified at autopsy. Regardless of the CT technique only 52/58 plaques were found at CT (sensitivity = 89.6%). There was no significant difference between the mean attenuation values of different plaque types between DSCT, DECT, and SSCT: type IV: 11 HU/8 HU/19 HU; type Va: 44 HU/45 HU/52 HU; type Vb: 1088 HU/966 HU/1079 HU). The sensitivity for correct classification varied depending on the plaque type (type II = 0%, type III = 0%, type IV = 43%, type Va = 58%, Vb = 97%). Conclusion: Independent of the used acquisition technique, SSCT, DSCT and DECT show similar results for attenuation-based characterization of atherosclerotic coronary plaques.
Aortic atherosclerotic plaque detection using a multiwavelength handheld photoacoustic imaging system
Hirano, Susumu; Namita, Takeshi; Kondo, Kengo; Yamakawa, Makoto; Shiina, Tsuyoshi
Patients affected by diseases caused by arteriosclerosis are increasing. Atherosclerosis, which is becoming an especially difficult health problem, forms plaques from lipids such as cholesterol located in walls of the aorta, cerebral artery, and coronary artery. Because lipid-rich plaques are vulnerable and because arterial rupture causes acute vascular occlusion, early detection is crucially important to prevent plaque growth and rupture. Ultrasound systems can detect plaques but cannot discriminate between vulnerable and equable plaques. To evaluate plaques non-invasively and easily, we developed a handheld photoacoustic imaging device. Its usefulness was verified in phantom experiments with a bovine aorta in which mimic plaque had been embedded. Photoacoustic images taken at wavelengths that produce high light absorbance by lipids show strong photoacoustic signals from the boundary of the mimic plaque. Results confirmed that our system can evaluate plaque properties by analysis with the photoacoustic spectrum. The effects of surrounding tissues and tissue components on plaque evaluation were investigated using a layered phantom. The mimic plaque located under a 6 mm blood layer was also evaluated. Results of these analyses demonstrate the system's usefulness.
Effect of Quercus infectoria and Rosa damascena on lipid profile and atherosclerotic plaque formation in rabbit model of hyperlipidemia.
Gholamhoseinian, A; Shahouzehi, B; Joukar, S; Iranpoor, M
Hyperlipidemia is the cause of many complications in the human societies. In this study, the effect of methanol extracts of Quercus infectoria (QI) galls and Rosa damascena (RD) Mill flower were studied on lipid profile and atherosclerotic plaques formation in hyperlipidemic rabbits. Thirty-six New Zeland white rabbits randomly divided into 6 groups as control (I), hyperlipidemic (II), hyperlipidemic+QI (III), hyperlipidemic+RD (IV), +Atorvastolin (V) and hyperlipidemic+Orlistat (VI) and were fed with high fat diet (0.5% cholesterol and 16% hydrogenated vegetable oil) for 45 days. At the end of the study period, lipid profile and plaque formation were assessed. Total Cholesterol (TC), Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) and Triglyceride (TG) levels were significantly increased in hyperlipidemic group compared with control group (p Quercus infectoria significantly decreased plasma levels of TC, TG and LDL (p < 0.001). It also decreased plaques formation in semi lunar valve and thoracic aorta. Rosa damascena mill flower methanol extract moderately decreased the levels of TC, TG, LDL and plaques formation but it was not significant. HDL levels and weight of animals did not show significant difference among groups. Based on the doses used in this study, our finding indicated that QI but no RD methanol extract has anti atherogenic and hypolipidemic activities. PMID:22530439
Overexpression of Prolyl-4-Hydroxylase-α1 Stabilizes but Increases Shear Stress-Induced Atherosclerotic Plaque in Apolipoprotein E-Deficient Mice
Liu, Xin-xin; Li, Meng-meng; Zhang, Yu; Chen, Liang; Wang, Lin; Di, Ming-xue
The rupture and erosion of atherosclerotic plaque can induce coronary thrombosis. Prolyl-4-hydroxylase (P4H) plays a central role in the synthesis of all known types of collagens, which are the most abundant constituent of the extracellular matrix in atherosclerotic plaque. The pathogenesis of atherosclerosis is thought to be in part caused by shear stress. In this study, we aimed to investigate a relationship between P4Hα1 and shear stress-induced atherosclerotic plaque. Carotid arteries of ApoE−/− mice were exposed to low and oscillatory shear stress conditions by the placement of a shear stress cast for 2 weeks; we divided 60 male ApoE−/− mice into three groups for treatments with saline (mock) (n = 20), empty lentivirus (lenti-EGFP) (n = 20), and lentivirus-P4Hα1 (lenti-P4Hα1) (n = 20). Our results reveal that after 2 weeks of lenti-P4Hα1 treatment both low and oscillatory shear stress-induced plaques increased collagen and the thickness of fibrous cap and decreased macrophage accumulation but no change in lipid accumulation. We also observed that overexpression of P4Ha1 increased plaque size. Our study suggests that P4Hα1 overexpression might be a potential therapeutic target in stabilizing vulnerable plaques.
The relationship of the gene polymorphisms of matrix metalloproteinase-1, -2, -3 and -9 to the progression of coronary atherosclerotic plaque
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Objective: To evaluate the influence of the gene polymorphisms of matrix metalloproteinase(mmp)-1, -2, -3 and -9 on coronary atherosclerotic plaque progression. Methods: During the period of January 2005-December 2008, 80 patients with coronary heart disease underwent two times coronary angiography at authors' hospital. Based on the angiographic findings, the patients were classified into plaque progression group (n = 31) and plaque non-progression group (n = 49). Coronary atherosclerotic plaque progression was arbitrarily defined as that the minimal lumen diameter (MLD) of coronary artery showed a decrease ≥ 0.4 mm on the second coronary angiography. The detailed history and clinical examination results were collected, including serum concentrations of lipid profiling, fasting glucose and hs-CRP. Genotypings for polymorphic variances of MMP-1 (-1607 G / GG), MMP-2 (-955 A / C), MMP-3 (-1612 5A / 6A ) and MMP-9 (-1562 C/T) were performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing analysis in two groups. Comparison of the clinical characteristics and polymorphisms between two groups was made to assess their effects on coronary atherosclerotic plaque progression. Results: More female patients and patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) were noted in patients with plaque progression compare to those with no progression (41.9% vs. 18.4%, P < 0.05 and 77.4% vs. 46.3%, P < 0.01, respectively). The serum hs-CRP level also significantly increased in group with plaque progression (0.26 ± 0.44 mg / L vs. 0.02 ± 0.14 mg / L, P < 0.01). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that serum hs-CRP concentration and ACS were independent risk factors of coronary atherosclerotic plaque progression (OR: 12.63,95% CI:1.45-110.29, P < 0.05 and OR:2.99,95% CI:1.04-8.63, P < 0.05, respectively). The frequencies of 6A / 6A genotype and 6A allele of MMP-3 promoter at location -1612 were significantly higher in group with plaque progression than that in group with
Controlling the angiogenic switch in developing atherosclerotic plaques: Possible targets for therapeutic intervention
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Slevin Mark
Full Text Available Abstract Plaque angiogenesis may have an important role in the development of atherosclerosis. Vasa vasorum angiogenesis and medial infiltration provides nutrients to the developing and expanding intima and therefore, may prevent cellular death and contribute to plaque growth and stabilization in early lesions. However in more advanced plaques, inflammatory cell infiltration, and concomitant production of numerous pro-angiogenic cytokines may be responsible for induction of uncontrolled neointimal microvessel proliferation resulting in production of immature and fragile neovessels similar to that seen in tumour development. These could contribute to development of an unstable haemorrhagic rupture-prone environment. Increasing evidence has suggested that the expression of intimal neovessels is directly related to the stage of plaque development, the risk of plaque rupture, and subsequently, the presence of symptomatic disease, the timing of ischemic neurological events and myocardial/cerebral infarction. Despite this, there is conflicting evidence regarding the causal relationship between neovessel expression and plaque thrombosis with some in vivo experimental models suggesting the contrary and as yet, few direct mediators of angiogenesis have been identified and associated with plaque instability in vivo. In recent years, an increasing number of angiogenic therapeutic targets have been proposed in order to facilitate modulation of neovascularization and its consequences in diseases such as cancer and macular degeneration. A complete knowledge of the mechanisms responsible for initiation of adventitial vessel proliferation, their extension into the intimal regions and possible de-novo synthesis of neovessels following differentiation of bone-marrow-derived stem cells is required in order to contemplate potential single or combinational anti-angiogenic therapies. In this review, we will examine the importance of angiogenesis in complicated plaque
Chlamydia pneumoniae in atherosclerotic carotid artery plaques: high prevalence among heavy smokers.
Dobrilovic, N; Vadlamani, L; Meyer, M; Wright, C B
This study was designed to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia pneumoniae in carotid artery plaques. Although there have been numerous studies evaluating coronary plaques for this bacterium fewer studies have assessed noncoronary vasculature. In addition we wished to evaluate whether correlation exists between the presence of C. pneumoniae in carotid plaques and established risk factors for atherosclerosis. Sixty intact carotid artery plaques removed during surgery (carotid endarterectomy) were formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded according to conventional techniques. These samples were evaluated by polymerase chain reaction analysis to detect presence of C. pneumoniae DNA. Results were tabulated and compared against established risk factors for atherosclerosis: diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, age, and smoking. Forty-two (70.0%) of the 60 plaques that were evaluated tested positive for the presence of C. pneumoniae DNA by polymerase chain reaction analysis. In the sample defined as being from heavy smokers (greater than 15-pack-year history) 33 (94.3%) of 35 plaques tested positive whereas two (5.7%) tested negative. This correlation demonstrated statistical significance (P = 1.36 x 10(-6), two-tailed Fisher exact test). Presence of C. pneumoniae in carotid plaques demonstrated no statistically significant correlation with diabetes, hypertension, or hyperlipidemia. Age as a risk factor was examined but not statistically evaluated because of the narrow range within our patient sample. Analysis of the data reveals that C. pneumoniae is present in large numbers of atheromatous plaques as is consistent with emerging data. What is interesting though is that 33 (94.3%) of the 35 smokers had plaques that tested positive for the bacterium as opposed to only nine (36.0%) of the 25 nonsmokers. Identification of specific populations exhibiting a high prevalence of C. pneumoniae may serve to focus future studies. Ongoing investigation will seek to determine whether C
Evidence for roles of radicals in protein oxidation in advanced human atherosclerotic plaque
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Fu, S; Davies, Michael Jonathan; Stocker, R;
-mediated reaction pathways, which seem to involve mainly the participation of transition- metal ions. We compared the relative abundance of these oxidation products in normal intima, and in human carotid plaque samples with that observed after radiolytically generated hydroxyl radical attack on BSA in vitro....... The close similarities in relative abundances in the latter two circumstances indicate that hydroxyl radical damage might occur in plaque. The relatively higher level of dityrosine in plaque than that observed after radiolysis suggests the additional involvement of HOCl-mediated reactions in advanced plaque.......) or oxidation has been obtained by immunochemical methods; the specificities of these antibodies are unclear. Here we present chemical determinations of six protein-bound oxidation products: dopa, o-tyrosine, m-tyrosine, dityrosine, hydroxyleucine and hydroxyvaline, some of which reflect particularly oxy-radical...
Impaired gait pattern as a sensitive tool to assess hypoxic brain damage in a novel mouse model of atherosclerotic plaque rupture
Roth, Lynn; Van Dam, Debby; Van der Donckt, Carole; Schrijvers, Dorien M.; Lemmens, Katrien; Van Brussel, Ilse; De Deyn, Peter P.; Martinet, Wim; De Meyer, Guido R. Y.
Apolipoprotein E deficient (ApoE(-/-)) mice with abeterozygous mutation in the flbrillin-1 gene (Fbn1(C1039G+/-) show spontaneous atherosclerotic plaque ruptures, disturbances in cerebral flow and sudden death when fed a Western-type diet (WD). The present study focused on motor coordination and spa
Prevalence of eight putative periodontal pathogens in atherosclerotic plaque of coronary artery disease patients and comparing them with noncardiac subjects: A case-control study
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Jaideep Mahendra
Conclusion: It is concluded that CAD subjects had higher prevalence of periodontal pathogens in subgingival biofilms as compared to the non cardiac subjects. Further, the number of bacteria was significantly associated between the subgingival and atherosclerotic plaques of the cardiac patients in south Indian population.
Biomechanics of atherosclerotic coronary plaque: site, stability and in vivo elasticity modeling.
Ohayon, Jacques; Finet, Gérard; Le Floc'h, Simon; Cloutier, Guy; Gharib, Ahmed M.; Heroux, Julie; Pettigrew, Roderic I.
International audience Coronary atheroma develop in local sites that are widely variable among patients and are considerably variable in their vulnerability for rupture. This article summarizes studies conducted by our collaborative laboratories on predictive biomechanical modeling of coronary plaques. It aims to give insights into the role of biomechanics in the development and localization of atherosclerosis, the morphologic features that determine vulnerable plaque stability, and emergi...
Detection of early stage atherosclerotic plaques using PET and CT fusion imaging targeting P-selectin in low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice
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Nakamura, Ikuko, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [RIKEN Center for Molecular Imaging Science, Kobe (Japan); Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Saga University, Saga (Japan); Hasegawa, Koki [RIKEN Center for Molecular Imaging Science, Kobe (Japan); Department of Pathology and Experimental Medicine, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto (Japan); Wada, Yasuhiro [RIKEN Center for Molecular Imaging Science, Kobe (Japan); Hirase, Tetsuaki; Node, Koichi [Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Saga University, Saga (Japan); Watanabe, Yasuyoshi, E-mail: email@example.com [RIKEN Center for Molecular Imaging Science, Kobe (Japan)
Highlights: ► P-selectin regulates leukocyte recruitment as an early stage event of atherogenesis. ► We developed an antibody-based molecular imaging probe targeting P-selectin for PET. ► This is the first report on successful PET imaging for delineation of P-selectin. ► P-selectin is a candidate target for atherosclerotic plaque imaging by clinical PET. -- Abstract: Background: Sensitive detection and qualitative analysis of atherosclerotic plaques are in high demand in cardiovascular clinical settings. The leukocyte–endothelial interaction mediated by an adhesion molecule P-selectin participates in arterial wall inflammation and atherosclerosis. Methods and results: A {sup 64}Cu-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid conjugated anti-P-selectin monoclonal antibody ({sup 64}Cu-DOTA-anti-P-selectin mAb) probe was prepared by conjugating an anti-P-selectin monoclonal antibody with DOTA followed by {sup 64}Cu labeling. Thirty-six hours prior to PET and CT fusion imaging, 3 MBq of {sup 64}Cu-DOTA-anti-P-selectin mAb was intravenously injected into low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient Ldlr-/- mice. After a 180 min PET scan, autoradiography and biodistribution of {sup 64}Cu-DOTA-anti-P-selectin monoclonal antibody was examined using excised aortas. In Ldlr-/- mice fed with a high cholesterol diet for promotion of atherosclerotic plaque development, PET and CT fusion imaging revealed selective and prominent accumulation of the probe in the aortic root. Autoradiography of aortas that demonstrated probe uptake into atherosclerotic plaques was confirmed by Oil red O staining for lipid droplets. In Ldlr-/- mice fed with a chow diet to develop mild atherosclerotic plaques, probe accumulation was barely detectable in the aortic root on PET and CT fusion imaging. Probe biodistribution in aortas was 6.6-fold higher in Ldlr-/- mice fed with a high cholesterol diet than in those fed with a normal chow diet. {sup 64}Cu-DOTA-anti-P-selectin m
Association between albuminuria, atherosclerotic plaques, elevated pulse wave velocity, age, risk category and prognosis in apparently healthy individuals
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Greve, Sara V; Blicher, Marie K; Blyme, Adam;
.4, 20.6% or 7.9, 8.2, 16.6, 19.5% or 6.6, 7.6, 9.8, 20.0%) increased, all P aged 61 or 71 years, with moderate or very high SCORE or intermediate or high FRS (all P aged 41, 51 or 61 years......, with moderate SCORE or with high-intermediate or high FRS (all P aged 51 years (P aged 51 [hazard ratio 2.7 (1.6-4.8)] and 61...... and especially atherosclerotic plaques or urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) at least 0.73/1.06 mg/mmol (men/women) added prognostic information in individuals aged 51 or 61 years or with moderate or intermediate risk....
Detection of thrombosis and plaque rupture in atherosclerotic rabbit model by using 3.0 T MR imaging
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Objective: To explore the imaging of the thrombosis after pharmacological triggering of plaque rupture in atherosclerotic rabbit model by using 3.0 T high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging. Methods: Twenty male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into an experimental group (n=16) and a control group (n=4). The aortic wall injuries were induced by an intravascular balloon in experimental group rabbits after high cholesterol diet. The pharmacological triggering with Russell's viper venom and histamine was performed after 3 months of establishment of model. All of the animals underwent pre-trigger and post-trigger MR examinations including 3D time of fight (3D TOF), T1WI, T2WI and post contrast T1WI. Euthanasia was performed in all rabbits and gross anatomy and histological specimen of aorta were obtained. Comparing the location and length of the thrombus between MRI images and histopathology was used Pearson test. Comparing the calculated indexes of abdominal aorta between rabbits with and without thrombosis was used AVONA test and LSD-t test. Results: After triggering, 8 in 14 survived rabbits developed thrombosis in experimental group, meanwhile, no thrombus was found in control group. The accuracy of multi-sequences MRI for detecting of thrombus was 87.1% (27/31). MRI data correlated with the histopathology regarding thrombus length (r=0.85, P2 vs. (8.93±5.36) mm2, P<0.01]. Conclusion: MRI is useful tool to determine the thrombosis and plaque rupture in atherosclerotic rabbit model. (authors)
Upstream Transcription Factor 1 (USF1) allelic variants regulate lipoprotein metabolism in women and USF1 expression in atherosclerotic plaque
Fan, Yue-Mei; Hernesniemi, Jussi; Oksala, Niku; Levula, Mari; Raitoharju, Emma; Collings, Auni; Hutri-Kähönen, Nina; Juonala, Markus; Marniemi, Jukka; Lyytikäinen, Leo-Pekka; Seppälä, Ilkka; Mennander, Ari; Tarkka, Matti; Kangas, Antti J.; Soininen, Pasi; Salenius, Juha Pekka; Klopp, Norman; Illig, Thomas; Laitinen, Tomi; Ala-Korpela, Mika; Laaksonen, Reijo; Viikari, Jorma; Kähönen, Mika; Raitakari, Olli T.; Lehtimäki, Terho
Upstream transcription factor 1 (USF1) allelic variants significantly influence future risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality in females. We investigated sex-specific effects of USF1 gene allelic variants on serum indices of lipoprotein metabolism, early markers of asymptomatic atherosclerosis and their changes during six years of follow-up. In addition, we investigated the cis-regulatory role of these USF1 variants in artery wall tissues in Caucasians. In the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study, 1,608 participants (56% women, aged 31.9 ± 4.9) with lipids and cIMT data were included. For functional study, whole genome mRNA expression profiling was performed in 91 histologically classified atherosclerotic samples. In females, serum total, LDL cholesterol and apoB levels increased gradually according to USF1 rs2516839 genotypes TT < CT < CC and rs1556259 AA < AG < GG as well as according to USF1 H3 (GCCCGG) copy number 0 < 1 < 2. Furthermore, the carriers of minor alleles of rs2516839 (C) and rs1556259 (G) of USF1 gene had decreased USF1 expression in atherosclerotic plaques (P = 0.028 and 0.08, respectively) as compared to non-carriers. The genetic variation in USF1 influence USF1 transcript expression in advanced atherosclerosis and regulates levels and metabolism of circulating apoB and apoB-containing lipoprotein particles in sex-dependent manner, but is not a major determinant of early markers of atherosclerosis. PMID:24722012
Piperlongumine inhibits atherosclerotic plaque formation and vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation by suppressing PDGF receptor signaling
Son, Dong Ju; Kim, Soo Yeon; Han, Seong Su; Kim, Chan Woo; Kumar, Sandeep; Park, Byeoung Soo; Lee, Sung Eun; Yun, Yeo Pyo; Jo, Hanjoong; Park, Young Hyun
Piperlongumine (piplartine, PL) is an alkaloid found in the long pepper (Piper longum L.) and has well-documented anti-platelet aggregation, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties; however, the role of PL in prevention of atherosclerosis is unknown. We evaluated the anti-atherosclerotic potential of PL in an in vivo murine model of accelerated atherosclerosis and defined its mechanism of action in aortic vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in vitro. Local treatment with PL significant...
Control study of MRI and histopathology in early atherosclerotic plaque of rabbits
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Objective: To explore the diagnostic value of MRI in the early atherosclerosis. Materials and Methods: Atherosclerosis was induced in 20 New Zealand White male rabbits with high cholesterol diet. Rabbits underwent serial MRI at 9 and 18 weeks after high cholesterol diet. Axial T1 and fat-suppressed PDWI spin echo images of the abdominal aorta were obtained above and below the right renal arteries. The signal intensity and morphologic features of plaque in the various phases after high cholesterol diet in MRI were analyzed and compared with those of histopathology. Results: Plaque could be observed in all animals on MRI at 9 weeks after high cholesterol diet, and mild enhancement of the plaque could be noted on enhanced imaging. Imaging effect was the best at T1 sequence. Plaque size increased gradually at 18 weeks. Plaque and vessel wall were all enrichment. In histopathology, foam cells, collagen and matrix fiber component can be seen in the various phases. Conclusion: The conventional MRI technique can be used to assess the formation and development of the early atherosclerosis dynamically and histologically. (authors)
Characterization of HSP27 phosphorylation sites in human atherosclerotic plaque secretome
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Durán, Mari-Carmen; Boeri-Erba, Elisabetta; Mohammed, Shabaz;
Atherosclerosis is one of the main causes of death in developed countries. Atheroma plaque formation is promoted by the interaction between the cells conforming the arterial wall, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells, together with lipoproteins and inflammatory cells (mainly macrophages and...
Soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor forms in plasma as markers of atherosclerotic plaque vulnerability
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Olson, Fredrik J; Thurison, Tine; Ryndel, Mikael;
PAR(II-III) (P=0.006) concentrations were higher after ischemic strokes and transient ischemic attacks, i.e., clinical subgroups associated with poorer prognosis and a less stable plaque phenotype, than after amaurosis fugax. Slightly elevated suPAR(I-III) levels were found in plasma from the carotid lesion...
A mechanistic analysis of the role of microcalcifications in atherosclerotic plaque stability: potential implications for plaque rupture
Maldonado, Natalia; Kelly-Arnold, Adreanne; Vengrenyuk, Yuliya; Laudier, Damien; Fallon, John T.; Virmani, Renu; Cardoso, Luis
The role of microcalcifications (μCalcs) in the biomechanics of vulnerable plaque rupture is examined. Our laboratory previously proposed (Ref. 44), using a very limited tissue sample, that μCalcs embedded in the fibrous cap proper could significantly increase cap instability. This study has been greatly expanded. Ninety-two human coronary arteries containing 62 fibroatheroma were examined using high-resolution microcomputed tomography at 6.7-μm resolution and undecalcified histology with special emphasis on calcified particles <50 μm in diameter. Our results reveal the presence of thousands of μCalcs, the vast majority in lipid pools where they are not dangerous. However, 81 μCalcs were also observed in the fibrous caps of nine of the fibroatheroma. All 81 of these μCalcs were analyzed using three-dimensional finite-element analysis, and the results were used to develop important new clinical criteria for cap stability. These criteria include variation of the Young's modulus of the μCalc and surrounding tissue, μCalc size, and clustering. We found that local tissue stress could be increased fivefold when μCalcs were closely spaced, and the peak circumferential stress in the thinnest nonruptured cap (66 μm) if no μCalcs were present was only 107 kPa, far less than the proposed minimum rupture threshold of 300 kPa. These results and histology suggest that there are numerous μCalcs < 15 μm in the caps, not visible at 6.7-μm resolution, and that our failure to find any nonruptured caps between 30 and 66 μm is a strong indication that many of these caps contained μCalcs. PMID:22777419
Detection of HOCl-mediated protein oxidation products in the extracellular matrix of human atherosclerotic plaques
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Woods, Alan A; Linton, Stuart M; Davies, Michael Jonathan
Oxidation is believed to play a role in atherosclerosis. Oxidized lipids, sterols and proteins have been detected in early, intermediate and advanced human lesions at elevated levels. The spectrum of oxidized side-chain products detected on proteins from homogenates of advanced human lesions has...... material obtained from advanced human atherosclerotic lesions are shown to contain elevated levels of oxidized amino acids [3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA), di-tyrosine, 2-hydroxyphenylalanine ( o-Tyr)] when compared with healthy (human and pig) arterial tissue. These matrix-derived materials account...
Selective ablation of WHHLMI rabbit atherosclerotic plaque by quantum cascade laser in the 5.7 μm wavelength range for less-invasive laser angioplasty
Hashimura, Keisuke; Ishii, Katsunori; Akikusa, Naota; Edamura, Tadataka; Yoshida, Harumasa; Awazu, Kunio
We investigated the potential of a compact and high-power quantum cascade laser (QCL) in the 5.7 μm wavelength range for less-invasive laser angioplasty. Atherosclerotic plaques consist mainly of cholesteryl esters. Radiation at a wavelength of 5.75 μm is strongly absorbed in C=O stretching vibration mode of cholesteryl esters. Our previous study achieved to make cutting differences between a normal artery and an atherosclerotic lesions using nanosecond pulsed laser by difference-frequency generation (DFG laser) at the wavelength of 5.75 μm. For applying this technique to clinical treatment, a compact laser device is required. In this study, QCL irradiation effects to a porcine normal aorta were compared with DFG laser. Subsequently, QCL irradiation effects on an atherosclerotic aorta of myocardial infarction-prone Watanabe heritable hyperlipidemic rabbit (WHHLMI rabbit) and a normal rabbit aorta were observed. As a result, the QCL could make cutting differences between the rabbit atherosclerotic and normal aortas. On the other hand, the QCL induced more thermal damage to porcine normal aorta than the DFG laser at the irradiation condition of comparable ablation depths. In conclusion, the possibility of less-invasive and selective treatment of atherosclerotic plaques using the QCL in the 5.7 μm wavelength range was revealed, although improvement of QCL was required to prevent the thermal damage of a normal artery.
Selective inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway regulates autophagy of macrophage and vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaque.
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Chungang Zhai
Full Text Available Macrophage infiltration contributes to the instability of atherosclerotic plaques. In the present study, we investigated whether selective inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway can enhance the stability of atherosclerotic plaques by activation of macrophage autophagy. In vitro study, selective inhibitors or siRNA of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways were used to treat the rabbit's peritoneal primary macrophage cells. Inflammation related cytokines secreted by macrophages were measured. Ultrastructure changes of macrophages were examined by transmission electron microscope. mRNA or protein expression levels of autophagy related gene Beclin 1, protein 1 light chain 3 II dots (LC3-II or Atg5-Atg12 conjugation were assayed by quantitative RT-PCR or Western blot. In vivo study, vulnerable plaque models were established in 40 New Zealand White rabbits and then drugs or siRNA were given for 8 weeks to inhibit the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS was performed to observe the plaque imaging. The ultrastructure of the abdominal aortic atherosclerosis lesions were analyzed with histopathology. RT-PCR or Western blot methods were used to measure the expression levels of corresponding autophagy related molecules. We found that macrophage autophagy was induced in the presence of Akt inhibitor, mTOR inhibitor and mTOR-siRNA in vitro study, while PI3K inhibitor had the opposite role. In vivo study, we found that macrophage autophagy increased significantly and the rabbits had lower plaque rupture incidence, lower plaque burden and decreased vulnerability index in the inhibitors or siRNA treated groups. We made a conclusion that selective inhibition of the Akt/mTOR signal pathway can reduce macrophages and stabilize the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques by promoting macrophage autophagy.
Selective treatment of atherosclerotic plaques using nanosecond pulsed laser with a wavelength of 5.75 μm for less-invasive laser angioplasty
Ishii, K.; Tsukimoto, H.; Hazama, H.; Awazu, K.
XeCl excimer laser coronary angioplasty (ELCA), has gained more attention for the treatment of serious stenosis blocked by plaque. Low degrees of thermal damage after ablation of atherosclerotic plaques have been achieved by ELCA. However, the large number of risks associated with the procedure, for example, dissections or perforations of the coronary arteries limits its application. The laser treatment technique with high ablation efficiency but low arterial wall injury is desirable. Mid-infrared laser with a wavelength of 5.75 μm is selectively well absorbed in C=O stretching vibration mode of ester bonds in cholesteryl ester. We studied the effectiveness of nanosecond pulsed laser at 5.75 μm for novel less-invasive laser angioplasty. In this study, we used a mid-infrared tunable solid-state laser which is operated by difference-frequency generation, at 5.75 μm, a pulse width of 5 ns and a pulse repetition rate of 10 Hz as a treatment light source, and a thoracic aorta of WHHLMI rabbit as an atherosclerosis model. As a result, less-invasive treatment parameters for removing atherosclerotic plaques in a wet condition were confirmed. This study shows that the nanosecond pulsed laser irradiation at 5.75 μm is a powerful tool for selective and less-invasive treatment of atherosclerotic plaques.
Nuclear medicine and coronary artery disease: evaluation of tracers of myocardial perfusion and vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque; Medecine nucleaire et maladie coronarienne: evaluation de traceurs de la perfusion myocardique et de la plaque d'atherome vulnerable
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Broisat, A
Coronary artery disease is one of the primary cause of mortality worldwide. Nuclear medicine is the major imaging technique for diagnosis and following of this disease. perfusion: nowadays, major radioactive agents used in clinical practice are myocardial perfusion tracers. The reference tracer is thallium-201. However, {sup 201}Tl presents some drawbacks. {sup 99m}Tcn-noet has been proposed for its replacement. This study shows that in contrast with previous studies realized in vitro on cardio myocytes, verapamil, an l-type calcium channel inhibitor, does not inhibit myocardial fixation of {sup 99m}Tcn-noet in vivo in dog. This data is in agreement with the hypothesis of a non specific endothelial fixation of this tracer. Moreover, this study shows that as a pure tracer of myocardial perfusion, {sup 99m}Tcn-noet can also be used to assess myocardial viability on a model of myocardial chronic infarction in rat. atherosclerosis: disruption of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques is the main event leading to coronary accidents. The second part of this study concerns the evaluation of new potential tracers of the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque in an experimental model of rabbit with an inheritable hypercholesterolemia. The four tracers evaluated (b2702(r), b2702-I, b2702-Tc and Tc-raft-b2702) are synthetic peptides comprising the residues 75-84 of hla-b2702, a molecule known to link vcam-1, an adhesion molecule expressed in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque. The autoradiography studies show that all tracers accumulate within atherosclerotic plaque expressing vcam- and that. i-b2702 shows the best plaque/control fixation ratio. (author)
Bacteria and bacterial DNA in atherosclerotic plaque and aneurysmal wall biopsies from patients with and without periodontitis
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Zahra Armingohar
Full Text Available Background: Several studies have reported an association between chronic periodontitis (CP and cardiovascular diseases. Detection of periodontopathogens, including red complex bacteria (RCB, in vascular lesions has suggested these bacteria to be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysms. Objective: In this study, we investigate bacteria and their DNA in vascular biopsies from patients with vascular diseases (VD; i.e. abdominal aortic aneurysms, atherosclerotic carotid, and common femoral arteries, with and without CP. Methods: DNA was extracted from vascular biopsies selected from 40 VD patients: 30 with CP and 10 without CP. The V3-V5 region of the 16S rDNA (V3-V5 was polymerase chain reaction (PCR-amplified, and the amplicons were cloned into Escherichia coli, sequenced, and classified (GenBank and the Human Oral Microbiome database. Species-specific primers were used for the detection of Porphyromonas gingivalis. In addition, 10 randomly selected vascular biopsies from the CP group were subjected to scanning electron microscopy (SEM for visualization of bacteria. Checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization was performed to assess the presence of RCB in 10 randomly selected subgingival plaque samples from CP patients. Results: A higher load and mean diversity of bacteria were detected in vascular biopsies from VD patients with CP compared to those without CP. Enterobacteriaceae were frequently detected in vascular biopsies together with cultivable, commensal oral, and not-yet-cultured bacterial species. While 70% of the subgingival plaque samples from CP patients showed presence of RCB, only P. gingivalis was detected in one vascular biopsy. Bacterial cells were seen in all 10 vascular biopsies examined by SEM. Conclusions: A higher bacterial load and more diverse colonization were detected in VD lesions of CP patients as compared to patients without CP. This indicated that a multitude of bacterial species both
Both transient and continuous corticosterone excess inhibit atherosclerotic plaque formation in APOE*3-leiden.CETP mice.
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Hanna E Auvinen
Full Text Available INTRODUCTION: The role of glucocorticoids in atherosclerosis development is not clearly established. Human studies show a clear association between glucocorticoid excess and cardiovascular disease, whereas most animal models indicate an inhibitory effect of glucocorticoids on atherosclerosis development. These animal models, however, neither reflect long-term glucocorticoid overexposure nor display human-like lipoprotein metabolism. AIM: To investigate the effects of transient and continuous glucocorticoid excess on atherosclerosis development in a mouse model with human-like lipoprotein metabolism upon feeding a Western-type diet. METHODS: Pair-housed female APOE*3-Leiden.CETP (E3L.CETP mice fed a Western-type containing 0.1% cholesterol for 20 weeks were given corticosterone (50 µg/ml for either 5 (transient group or 17 weeks (continuous group, or vehicle (control group in the drinking water. At the end of the study, atherosclerosis severity, lesion area in the aortic root, the number of monocytes adhering to the endothelial wall and macrophage content of the plaque were measured. RESULTS: Corticosterone treatment increased body weight and food intake for the duration of the treatment and increased gonadal and subcutaneous white adipose tissue weight in transient group by +35% and +31%, and in the continuous group by +140% and 110%. Strikingly, both transient and continuous corticosterone treatment decreased total atherosclerotic lesion area by -39% without lowering plasma cholesterol levels. In addition, there was a decrease of -56% in macrophage content of the plaque with continuous corticosterone treatment, and a similar trend was present with the transient treatment. CONCLUSION: Increased corticosterone exposure in mice with human-like lipoprotein metabolism has beneficial, long-lasting effects on atherosclerosis, but negatively affects body fat distribution by promoting fat accumulation in the long-term. This indicates that the increased
Intra-Arterial Drug and Light Delivery for Photodynamic Therapy Using Visudyne®: Implication for Atherosclerotic Plaque Treatment
Jain, Manish; Zellweger, Matthieu; Frobert, Aurélien; Valentin, Jérémy; van den Bergh, Hubert; Wagnières, Georges; Cook, Stéphane; Giraud, Marie-Noelle
Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which is based on the activation of photosensitizers with light, can be used to reduce plaque burden. We hypothesized that intra-arterial photosensitizer administration and photo-activation will lead to high and rapid accumulation within the plaque with reduced systemic adverse effects. Thus, this "intra-arterial" PDT would be expected to have less side effects and due to the short time involved would be compatible with percutaneous coronary interventions. Aim: We characterized the dose-dependent uptake and efficacy of intra-arterial PDT using Liposomal Verteporfin (Visudyne®), efficient for cancer-PDT but not tested before for PDT of atherosclerosis. Methods and Results: Visudyne® (100, 200, and 500 ng/ml) was perfused for 5–30 min in atherosclerotic aorta isolated from ApoE−/− mice. The fluorescence Intensity (FI) after 15 min of Visudyne® perfusion increased with doses of 100 (FI-5.5 ± 1.8), 200 (FI-31.9 ± 1.9) or 500 ng/ml (FI-42.9 ± 1.2). Visudyne® (500 ng/ml) uptake also increased with the administration time from 5 min (FI-9.8 ± 2.5) to 10 min (FI-23.3 ± 3.0) and 15 min (FI-42.9 ± 3.4) before reaching saturation at 30 min (FI-39.3 ± 2.4) contact. Intra-arterial PDT (Fluence: 100 and 200 J/cm2, irradiance-334 mW/cm2) was applied immediately after Visudyne® perfusion (500 ng/ml for 15 min) using a cylindrical light diffuser coupled to a diode laser (690 nm). PDT led to an increase of ROS (Dihydroethidium; FI-6.9 ± 1.8, 25.3 ± 5.5, 43.4 ± 13.9) and apoptotic cells (TUNEL; 2.5 ± 1.6, 41.3 ± 15.3, 58.9 ± 6%), mainly plaque macrophages (immunostaining; 0.3 ± 0.2, 37.6 ± 6.4, 45.3 ± 5.4%) respectively without laser irradiation, or at 100 and 200 J/cm2. Limited apoptosis was observed in the medial wall (0.5 ± 0.2, 8.5 ± 4.7, 15.3 ± 12.7%). Finally, Visudyne®-PDT was found to be associated with reduced vessel functionality (Myogram). Conclusion: We demonstrated that sufficient accumulation of Visudyne
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1 levels unaltered in symptomatic atherosclerotic carotid plaque patients from North India
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Dheeraj eKhurana
Full Text Available We aimed to identify the role of vascular endothelial growth factor(VEGF and monocyte chemoattractant protein(MCP-1 as a serum biomarker of symptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaque in North Indian population. Individuals with symptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaque have high risk of ischemic stroke. Previous studies from western countries have shown an association between VEGF and MCP-1 levels and the incidence of ischemic stroke. In this study, venous blood from 110 human subjects was collected, 57 blood samples of which were obtained from patients with carotid plaques, 38 neurological controls without carotid plaques and another 15 healthy controls who had no history of serious illness. Serum VEGF and MCP-1 levels were measured using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA. We also correlated the data clinically and carried out risk factor analysis based on the detailed questionnaire obtained from each patient. For risk factor analysis, a total of 70 symptomatic carotid plaque cases and equal number of age and sex matched healthy controls were analyzed. We found that serum VEGF levels in carotid plaque patients did not show any significant change when compared to either of the controls. Similarly, there was no significant upregulation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 in the serum of these patients. The risk factor analysis revealed that hypertension, diabetes, and physical inactivity were the main correlates of carotid atherosclerosis(p<0.05. Prevalence of patients was higher residing in urban areas as compared to rural region. We also found that patients coming from mountaineer region were relatively less vulnerable to cerebral atherosclerosis as compared to the ones residing at plain region. We conclude that the pathogenesis of carotid plaques may progress independent of these inflammatory molecules. In parallel, risk factor analysis indicates hypertension, diabetes and sedentary lifestyle as the most
Assessment of atherosclerotic plaque inflammation can be improved by delayed time point FDG PET CT imaging
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Blomberg, Björn; Thomassen, Anders; Hildebrandt, Malene;
in contrast between plaque activity and blood pool activity over time. Global aortic uptake of 18-FDG was quantified by subtracting the blood pool SUVmean from aortic SUVmax (cSUV). The change in aortic TBR and cSUV over time was determined by a Student's paired t-test. Regression coefficients summarized...... the data. Results: At 90 minutes, the aortic TBR was 2.072 ± 0.599. At 180 minutes, the aortic TBR significantly increased to 3.488 ± 1.138 (P = SUV was 1.122 ± 0.505. A significant relationship was observed between aortic cSUV, aging (β = 0.019; t = 2.79; df = 12; P...... = 0.016) and gender (β = 0.502; t = 2.30; df = 12; P = 0.040). At 180 minutes, the aortic cSUV significantly increased to 1.524 ± 0.577 (P = SUV, aging (β = 0.025; t = 3.44; df = 12; P = 0.005) and gender (β = 0.542; t = 2...
The effect of interleukin and matrix metalloproteinase on the vulnerability of carotid atherosclerotic plaque and cerebral infarction
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HUANG Yan
Full Text Available Objective To investigate the relationship of IL-17, IL-10 and MMP-12 with the vulnerability of carotid atherosclerotic plaque and cerebral infarction. Methods According to clinical stroke event 70 carotid atherosclersis patients were divided into asymptomatic carotid atherosclerosis (ACAS group (n = 35 and acute atherosclerotic cerebral infarction (AACI group (n = 35. The patients were also divided into vulnerable plague (VP group (n = 38 and unvulnerable plague (UVP group (n = 32 by color ultrasonic technique. Normal control group (n = 35 was established. The plasma levels of cytokines were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA. Results Compared with the control group, the concentrations of IL-17, IL-10 and MMP-12 in ACAS group and AACI group were significantly elevated (P = 0.000; P = 0.000, moreover, the concentrations of IL-17 and MMP-12 in AACI group were higher than those in ACAS group (P = 0.000; P = 0.002, respectively. In AACI group, the level of IL-10 was lower than the ACAS group and control group (P = 0.000, for all, whereas, no significant difference of IL-10 level was seen between ACAS group and control group (P = 0.275. In VP group, the concentrations of IL-17 and MMP-12 were higher than those in UVP group (P = 0.000 and 0.014, respectively. In VP group, the level of IL-10 was lower than that in UVP group and control group (P = 0.000, for all, but no significant difference of IL-10 level was seen between UVP group and control group (P = 0.742. Correlation analysis showed, the level of IL-17 was positively correlated with the level of MMP-12 (r = 0.640, P = 0.000, and was negatively correlated with the level of IL-10 (r =-0.430, P = 0.000. The level of MMP-12 was weakly negatively correlated with the level of IL-10 (r =-0.242, P = 0.013. Conclusion IL-17, IL-10 and MMP-12 all participate the pathological process of atherosclerosis and cerebral infarction. The elevated IL-17 and MMP-12 levels and decreased IL-10 level
Echo-lucency of computerized ultrasound images of carotid atherosclerotic plaques are associated with increased levels of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins as well as increased plaque lipid content
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Grønholdt, Marie-Louise Moes; Nordestgaard, Børge G.; Weibe, Brit M.;
=.001): and body mass index (P=.0001). On ANCOVA, body mass index, fasting IDL cholesterol, and fasting plasma triglycerides were independent predictors of echo-lucency. Echo-lucency was associated with increased relative plaque lipid content (P=.02). Conclusions-Increased plasma levels of triglyceride...... carotid plaque echo-lucency and that echo-lucency predicts a high plaque lipid content. Methods and Results-The study included 137 patients with neurological symptoms and greater than or equal to 50% stenosis of the relevant carotid artery, High-resolution B-mode ultrasound images of carotid plaques were......-rich lipoproteins predict echo-lucency of carotid plaques, which is associated with increased plaque Lipid content, Because echo-lucency has been associated with a high incidence of brain infarcts on CT scans, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins may predict a plaque type particularly vulnerable to rupture....
Echolucency of computerized ultrasound images of carotid atherosclerotic plaques are associated with increased levels of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins as well as increased plaque lipid content
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Grønholdt, Marie-Louise M.; Nordestgaard, Børge; Wiebe, Britt M.;
=.001): and body mass index (P=.0001). On ANCOVA, body mass index, fasting IDL cholesterol, and fasting plasma triglycerides were independent predictors of echo-lucency. Echo-lucency was associated with increased relative plaque lipid content (P=.02). Conclusions-Increased plasma levels of triglyceride...... carotid plaque echo-lucency and that echo-lucency predicts a high plaque lipid content. Methods and Results-The study included 137 patients with neurological symptoms and greater than or equal to 50% stenosis of the relevant carotid artery, High-resolution B-mode ultrasound images of carotid plaques were......-rich lipoproteins predict echo-lucency of carotid plaques, which is associated with increased plaque Lipid content, Because echo-lucency has been associated with a high incidence of brain infarcts on CT scans, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins may predict a plaque type particularly vulnerable to rupture....
Interobserver agreement for the detection of atherosclerotic plaque in coronary CT angiography: comparison of two low-dose image acquisition protocols with standard retrospectively ECG-gated reconstruction
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Schuhbaeck, Annika; Rixe, Johannes; Hamm, Christian [University of Giessen, Department of Cardiology, Giessen (Germany); Marwan, Mohamed; Gauss, Soeren; Muschiol, Gerd; Ropers, Dieter; Daniel, Werner G.; Achenbach, Stephan [University of Erlangen, Department of Cardiology, Erlangen (Germany); Schneider, Christian [University of Giessen, Department of Radiology, Giessen (Germany); Lell, Michael [University of Erlangen, Department of Radiology, Erlangen (Germany)
We compared the interobserver variability concerning the detection of calcified and non-calcified plaque in two different low-dose and standard retrospectively gated protocols for coronary CTA. 150 patients with low heart rates and less than 100 kg body weight were randomised and examined by contrast-enhanced dual-source CT coronary angiography (100 kV, 320 mAs). 50 patients were examined with prospectively ECG-triggered axial acquisition, 50 patients with prospectively ECG-triggered high pitch spiral acquisition, and 50 patients using spiral acquisition with retrospective ECG gating. Two investigators independently analysed the datasets concerning the presence of calcified and non-calcified plaque on a per-segment level. Mean effective dose was 1.4 {+-} 0.2 mSv for axial, 0.8 {+-} 0.07 mSv for high-pitch spiral, and 5.3 {+-} 2.6 mSV for standard spiral acquisition (P < 0.0001). In axial acquisition, interobserver agreement concerning the presence of atherosclerotic plaque was achieved in 650/749 coronary segments (86.8%). In high-pitch spiral acquisition, agreement was achieved in 664/748 segments (88.8%, n.s.). In standard spiral acquisition, agreement was achieved in 672/738 segments (91.0%, P < 0.0001). Interobserver agreement was significantly higher for calcified than for non-calcified plaque in all data acquisition modes. Low-dose coronary CT angiography permits the detection of coronary atherosclerotic plaque with good interobserver agreement. (orig.)
Imaging of atherosclerotic aorta of rabbit model by detection of plaque inflammation with fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
ZHAO Quan-ming; FENG Ting-ting; ZHAO Xin; XU Zhan-min; LIU Yu; LI De-peng; LI Li-qin; SU Gong; ZHANG Xiao-xia
Background Atherosclerotic plaque rupture is the primary mechanism of thrombosis which plays a key role in the onset of acute coronary syndromes. Detection of these plaques prone to rupture (vulnerable plaque) could be clinically significant for prevention of cardiac events. It has been shown that high metabolism cells have a high uptake of fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG). The objective of this study was to investigate the correlation of FDG uptake and the immuno-histochemistry parameters of plaques, and the effect of atorvastatin on vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque in a rabbit model.Methods Ten male New Zealand White rabbits were divided into three groups as follows: (1) normal control group (n=2,C group): the animals were fed a standard diet at 120 g/d and were given water ad labium; (2) atherosclerosis group (n=4,As group): animals were fed with high fat diet for 5 months after aortic endothelia damage; (3) treatment group (atherosclerosis + atorvastatin, n=4, Statin group): animals were fed with high fat diet for 5 months and then changed into normal chow plus atorvastatin (2.5 mg·d-1·kg-1) treatment for another 4 months. Then these four rabbits were imaged with fluorine-18 fluorodexyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and sacrificed for pathohistologic studies. FDG uptake by the aorta was expressed as target-to-background ratio (TBR). Maximal standardized uptake value (SUV) was measured over the thoracic and abdominal aortas. The aortic smooth muscle cell (SMC) number, CD-14 antibody positive cell (macrophage) number and the ratio of the thickness of fibrous cap to the thickness of lipid core (cap-to-core ratio) in atherosclerotic plaques were analyzed.Results As group showed significantly higher uptake of FDG than C group (SUVs: 0.746±0.172 vs. 0.286±0.073, P <0.001). After 4 months of atorvastatin treatment and the modification of diet, SUVs decreased significantly (Statin group:0.550±0.134, compared to As group
Smooth muscle cells healing atherosclerotic plaque disruptions are of local, not blood, origin in apolipoprotein E knockout mice
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Bentzon, Jacob F; Sondergaard, Claus S; Kassem, Mustafa;
circulating bone marrow-derived progenitor cells. Here, we analyzed the contribution of this mechanism to plaque healing after spontaneous and mechanical plaque disruption in apolipoprotein E knockout (apoE-/-) mice. METHODS AND RESULTS: To determine the origin of SMCs after spontaneous plaque disruption......, irradiated 18-month-old apoE-/- mice were reconstituted with bone marrow cells from enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) transgenic apoE-/- mice and examined when they died up to 9 months later. Plaque hemorrhage, indicating previous plaque disruption, was widely present, but no bone marrow-derived e......GFP+ SMCs were detected. To examine the origin of healing SMCs in a model that recapitulates more features of human plaque rupture and healing, we developed a mechanical technique that produced consistent plaque disruption, superimposed thrombosis, and SMC-mediated plaque healing in apoE-/- mice. Mechanical...
Modulating the Gut Microbiota Improves Glucose Tolerance, Lipoprotein Profile and Atherosclerotic Plaque Development in ApoE-Deficient Mice.
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Ida Rune
Full Text Available The importance of the gut microbiota (GM in disease development has recently received increased attention, and numerous approaches have been made to better understand this important interplay. For example, metabolites derived from the GM have been shown to promote atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD, and to increase CVD risk factors. Popular interest in the role of the intestine in a variety of disease states has now resulted in a significant proportion of individuals without coeliac disease switching to gluten-free diets. The effect of gluten-free diets on atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk factors is largely unknown. We therefore investigated the effect of a gluten-free high-fat cholesterol-rich diet, as compared to the same diet in which the gluten peptide gliadin had been added back, on atherosclerosis and several cardiovascular risk factors in apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe-/- mice. The gluten-free diet transiently altered GM composition in these mice, as compared to the gliadin-supplemented diet, but did not alter body weights, glucose tolerance, insulin levels, plasma lipids, or atherosclerosis. In parallel, other Apoe-/- mice fed the same diets were treated with ampicillin, a broad-spectrum antibiotic known to affect GM composition. Ampicillin-treatment had a marked and sustained effect on GM composition, as expected. Furthermore, although ampicillin-treated mice were slightly heavier than controls, ampicillin-treatment transiently improved glucose tolerance both in the absence or presence of gliadin, reduced plasma LDL and VLDL cholesterol levels, and reduced aortic atherosclerotic lesion area. These results demonstrate that a gluten-free diet does not seem to have beneficial effects on atherosclerosis or several CVD risk factors in this mouse model, but that sustained alteration of GM composition with a broad-spectrum antibiotic has beneficial effects on CVD risk factors and atherosclerosis
Imaging of inflamed carotid artery atherosclerotic plaques with the use of {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-IL-2 scintigraphy in end-stage renal disease patients
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Opalinska, Marta; Pach, Dorota; Sowa-Staszczak, Anna; Glowa, Boguslaw; Hubalewska-Dydejczyk, Alicja [Jagiellonian University Medical School, Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Endocrinology, Cracow (Poland); Stompor, Tomasz [University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Department of Nephrology, Hypertensiology and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Olsztyn (Poland); Mikolajczak, Renata; Garnuszek, Piotr; Maurin, Michal; Karczmarczyk, Urszula [National Centre for Nuclear Research Radioisotope Centre POLATOM, Otwock (Poland); Fedak, Danuta [Jagiellonian University Medical School, Clinical Biochemistry, Cracow (Poland); Krzanowski, Marcin; Sulowicz, Wladyslaw [Jagiellonian University Medical School, Department of Nephrology, Cracow (Poland); Rakowski, Tomasz [Jagiellonian University Medical School, 2nd Department of Cardiology, Institute of Cardiology, Cracow (Poland)
Identification of vulnerable plaques remains crucial for better cardiovascular risk assessment. At least 20% of inflammatory cells within unstable (vulnerable) plaques comprise T lymphocytes, which contain receptors for interleukin-2 (IL-2); those receptors can be identified by scintigraphy with radiolabelled IL-2.The aim of this study was to identify the ''inflamed'' (vulnerable) plaques by scintigraphy using IL-2 labelled with {sup 99m}Tc in the selected, high cardiovascular risk group of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. A total of 28 patients (18 men, 10 women, aged 55.2 {+-} 9.6 years, 17 on peritoneal dialysis, 11 on haemodialysis) underwent common carotid artery (CCA) scintigraphy with the use of {sup 99m}Tc-hydrazinonicotinamide (HYNIC)-IL-2. In all cases, ultrasound examination of the CCA was performed and levels of selected proinflammatory factors, atherogenic markers and calcium-phosphate balance parameters were measured. Finally, the target to non-target (T/nT) ratio of IL-2 uptake in atherosclerotic plaques with intima-media thickness (IMT), classic cardiovascular risk factors and concentrations of the measured factors were compared. Increased {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-IL-2 uptake in atherosclerotic plaques in 38/41 (91%) cases was detected. The median T/nT ratio of focal {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-IL-2 uptake in atherosclerotic plaques was 2.35 (range 1.23-3.63). The mean IMT value on the side of plaques assessed by scintigraphy was 0.79 {+-} 0.18 mm (median 0.8, range 0.5-1.275). Correlations between T/nT ratio and homocysteine (R = 0.22, p = 0.037), apolipoprotein B (apoB) (R = 0.31, p = 0.008), apoB to apoA-I ratio (R = 0.29, p = 0.012) and triglyceride concentration (R = 0.26, p = 0.021) were detected. A lower T/nT ratio in patients with better parameters of nutritional status (haemoglobin, albumin, adiponectin) in comparison with patients with worse nutritional parameters (3.20 {+-} 0.5 vs 2.16 {+-} 0.68, p = 0.025) was revealed as well
Advantage in Bright-blood and Black-blood Magnetic Resonance Imaging with High-resolution for Analysis of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques
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Mei Li
Full Text Available Background: About 50% of the cerebral ischemia events are induced by intracranial and extracranial atherosclerosis. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy for displaying atherosclerotic plaques in carotid arteries and analyzing their ingredients by using high-resolution new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI techniques. Methods: Totally, 49 patients suspected of extracranial carotid artery stenosis were subjected to cranial MRI scan and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA examination on carotid arteries, and high-resolution bright-blood and black-blood MRI analysis was carried out within 1 week. Digital subtraction angiography (DSA examination was carried out for 16 patients within 1 month. Results: Totally, 103 plaques were detected in the 49 patients, which were characterized by localized or diffusive thickening of the vessel wall, with the intrusion of crescent-shaped abnormal signal into lumens. Fibrous cap was displayed as isointensity in T1-weighted image (T1WI and hyperintensities in proton density weighted image (PDWI and T2-weighted image (T2WI, lipid core was displayed as isointensity or slight hyperintensities in T1WI, isointensity, hyperintensities or hypointensity in PDWI, and hypointensity in T2WI. Calcification in plaques was detected in 11 patients. Eight patients were detected with irregular plaque surface or ulcerative plaques, which were characterized by irregular intravascular space surface in the black-blood sequences, black hypointensity band was not detected in three-dimensional time-of-flight, or the hypointensity band was not continuous, and intrusion of hyperintensities into plaques can be detected. Bright-blood and black-blood techniques were highly correlated with the diagnosis of contrast-enhanced MRA in angiostenosis degree, Rs = 0.97, P < 0.001. In comparison to DSA, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of MRI diagnosis of stenosis for ≥50% were 88.9%, 100%, and 97.9%, respectively
Reproducibility of coronary atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in populations with low, intermediate, and high prevalence of coronary artery disease by multidetector computer tomography: a guide to reliable visual coronary plaque assessments.
de Knegt, Martina C; Linde, Jesper J; Fuchs, Andreas; Nordestgaard, Børge G; Køber, Lars V; Hove, Jens D; Kofoed, Klaus F
To evaluate the interobserver agreement of visual coronary plaque characteristics by 320-slice multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in three populations with low, intermediate and high CAD prevalence and to identify determinants for the reproducible assessment of these plaque characteristics. 150 patients, 50 asymptomatic subjects from the general population (low CAD prevalence), 50 symptomatic non-acute coronary syndrome (non-ACS) patients (intermediate CAD prevalence), and 50 ACS patients (high CAD prevalence), matched according to age and gender, were retrospectively enrolled. All coronary segments were evaluated for overall image quality, evaluability, presence of CAD, coronary stenosis, plaque composition, plaque focality, and spotty calcification by four readers. Interobserver agreement was assessed using Fleiss' Kappa (κ) and intra-class correlation (ICC). Widely used clinical parameters (overall scan quality, presence of CAD, and determination of coronary stenosis) showed good agreement among the four readers, (ICC = 0.66, κ = 0.73, ICC = 0.74, respectively). When accounting for heart rate, body mass index, plaque location, and coronary stenosis above/below 50 %, interobserver agreement for plaque composition, presence of CAD, and coronary stenosis improved to either good or excellent, (κ = 0.61, κ = 0.81, ICC = 0.78, respectively). Spotty calcification was the least reproducible parameter investigated (κ = 0.33). Across subpopulations, reproducibility of coronary plaque characteristics generally decreased with increasing CAD prevalence except for plaque composition, (limits of agreement: ±2.03, ±1.96, ±1.79 for low, intermediate and high CAD prevalence, respectively). 320-slice MDCT can be used to assess coronary plaque characteristics, except for spotty calcification. Reproducibility estimates are influenced by heart rate, body size, plaque location, and degree of luminal stenosis.
Immune dysregulation accelerates atherosclerosis and modulates plaque composition in systemic lupus erythematosus
Stanic, Aleksandar K.; Stein, Charles M.; Morgan, Adam C.; Fazio, Sergio; Linton, MacRae F.; Wakeland, Edward K.; Olsen, Nancy J.; Major, Amy S.
Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have accelerated atherosclerosis. The underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, and investigations have been hampered by the absence of animal models that reflect the human condition of generalized atherosclerosis and lupus. We addressed this problem by transferring lupus susceptibility to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor-deficient (LDLr−/−) mice, an established model of atherosclerosis, creating radiation chimeras with NZM2410-derived, lupus-susceptible, B6.Sle1.2.3 congenic or C57BL/6 control donors (LDLr.Sle and LDLr.B6, respectively). LDLr.Sle mice developed a lupus-like disease characterized by production of double-stranded DNA autoantibodies and renal disease. When fed a Western-type diet, LDLr.Sle chimeras had increased mortality and atherosclerotic lesions. The plaques of LDLr.Sle mice were highly inflammatory and contained more CD3+ T cells than controls. LDLr.Sle mice also had increased activation of CD4+ T and B cells and significantly higher antibody to oxidized LDL and cardiolipin. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that the lupus-susceptible immune system enhances atherogenesis and modulates plaque composition. PMID:16636270
Mast cell degranulator compound 48-80 promotes atherosclerotic plaque in apolipoprotein E knockout mice with perivascular common carotid collar placement
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
TANG Ya-ling; YANG Yong-zong; WANG Shuang; HUANG Tao; TANG Chao-ke; XU Zeng-xiang; SUN Yu-hui
Background Study of the relationship between mast cells and atherosclerosis is mostly dependent on pathological observation and cytology experiments. To investigate the effects of mast cells degranulation on plaque and their possible mechanisms we used apolipoprotein E knockout mice which had been placed perivascular common carotid collar with mast cells degranulator compound 48-80.Methods Forty apolipoprotein E knockout mice were fed a western-type diet and operated on with placement of perivascular right common carotid collar. Four weeks after surgery, the mice were intraperitoneally injected with compound 48-80 (0.5 mg/kg) or D-Hanks every other day for 4 times. The serum lipids and activity of tryptase were measured. Tissue sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Corresponding sections were stained with toluidine blue and immunohistochemically with antibodies against macrophage-specific antigen, α-smooth muscle actin, interleukin-1β and van Willebrand factor. Simultaneously, basic fibroblast growth factor was detected by in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence.Results No pathological change was observed in common carotid non-collar placement but atherogenesis in common carotid collar placement of both groups. There was a significant increase in plaque area ((5.85±0.75)×104 vs (0.86±0.28)×104 μm2, P<0.05), the degree of lumen stenosis ((81±15)% vs (41±12)%, P <0.05), the activity of tryptase in serum ((0.57±0.13) U/L vs (0.36±0.10) U/L, P <0.05), and the percentage of degranulated mast cells ((80.6±17.8)% vs (13.5±4.1)%, P <0.05). The expressions of macrophage-specific antigen, α-smooth muscle actin, interleukin-1β, basic fibroblast growth factor and the density of neovessel in plaque were more in the compound 48-80 group than in the control group.Conclusions Perivascular common carotid collar placement can promote atherosclerotic plaque formation in apolipoprotein E knockout mice. Compound 48-80 increases plaque area and the degree
Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) is not a marker of the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque
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Iversen, Kasper; Teisner, Ane; Dalager, Soren;
To investigate if pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) was present in the vulnerable plaque, and if not, to find alternative hypothesis for the release of PAPP-A.......To investigate if pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) was present in the vulnerable plaque, and if not, to find alternative hypothesis for the release of PAPP-A....
Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) is not a marker of the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Iversen, Kasper K; Teisner, Ane Søgaard; Dalager, Soren;
OBJECTIVE: To investigate if pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) was present in the vulnerable plaque, and if not, to find alternative hypothesis for the release of PAPP-A. DESIGN AND METHODS: Vulnerable plaques and control tissues were examined by immunohistochemistry. Volunteers...
The Clinical Value of High-Intensity Signals on the Coronary Atherosclerotic Plaques: Noncontrast T1-Weighted Magnetic Resonance Imaging
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Shoichi Ehara
Full Text Available Over the past several decades, significant progress has been made in the pathohistological assessment of vulnerable plaques and in invasive intravascular imaging techniques. However, the assessment of plaque morphology by invasive modalities is of limited value for the detection of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis and the subsequent prediction or prevention of acute cardiovascular events. Recently, magnetic resonance (MR imaging technology has reached a sufficient level of spatial resolution, which allowed the plaque visualization of large and static arteries such as the carotids and aorta. However, coronary wall imaging by MR is still challenging due to the small size of coronary arteries, cardiac and respiratory motion, and the low contrast-to-noise ratio between the coronary artery wall and the surrounding structures. Following the introduction of carotid plaque imaging with noncontrast T1-weighted imaging (T1WI, some investigators have reported that coronary artery high-intensity signals on T1WI are associated with vulnerable plaque morphology and an increased risk of future cardiac events. Although there are several limitations and issues that need to be resolved, this novel MR technique for coronary plaque imaging could influence treatment strategies for atherothrombotic disease and may be useful for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of atherothrombotic plaque formation.
TU-F-12A-06: BEST IN PHYSICS (IMAGING) - A Novel Catheter-Based Radionuclide Imaging System to Characterize Atherosclerotic Plaque
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Zaman, R; Kosuge, H; Carpenter, C; Pratx, G; Sun, C; McConnell, M; Xing, L [Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA (United States)
Purpose: Atherosclerosis underlies coronary artery diseases, the leading cause of death in the United States and worldwide. In this study, we developed a novel catheter-based radionuclide imaging (CRI) system to image 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG), a radionuclide, a marker of vascular inflammation, in murine carotid arteries and characterized the system for spatial resolution from multiple scintillating materials. Methods: The catheter system includes 35 mm and 8 mm fixed focal length lenses, which are subsequently connected to a CMOS camera and fiber holder. The distal ferrule of an image bundle is terminated with a wide-angle lens. The novelty of this system is a scintillating balloon with a crystal tip in the front of the wide angle lens to image light from the decay of 18F-FDG emission signal. The scintillating balloon is fabricated from 1mL of silicone RTV catalyst mixed with 1 mL base and 50 mg/mL calcium fluoride doped with Europium (CaF2:Eu). To identify the optimal scintillating materials with respect to resolution, we calculated modulation transfer function (MTF) of Yttrium Aluminum Garnet doped with Cerium (YAG:Ce), anthracene, and CaF2:Eu phosphors using a thin line optical phantom (Fig. 1a-1b). Macrophage-rich FVB murine atherosclerotic carotid plaque model (n = 4) was used in ex vivo experiments. Confirmatory imaging was also performed by an external optical imaging system (IVIS-200). Results: Analysis of the different phosphors (Fig 1b) showed that CaF2:Eu enabled the best resolution of 1.2μm. The CRI system visualized 18F-FDG in atherosclerotic plaques (Fig. 1d). The ligated left carotid (LR) artery exhibited 4× higher 18F-FDG signal intensity compared to the non-ligated right carotid (negative control) artery (1.65×10{sup 2} ±4.07×10{sup 1} vs. 4.44×10{sup 1}±2.17×10{sup 0}, A.U., p = 0.005) and confirmed with IVIS-200 (Fig. 1d). Conclusion: This CRI system enables high-resolution and sensitive detection of 18F-FDG uptake by murine
64Cu-DOTATATE PET/MRI for detection of activated macrophages in carotid atherosclerotic plaques
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Pedersen, Sune Folke; Sandholt, Benjamin Vikjær; Keller, Sune Høgild;
of selected markers of plaque vulnerability using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. These results were compared with in vivo 64Cu-DOTATATE uptake calculated as the mean standardized uptake value. Univariate analysis of real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and PET showed...... that cluster of differentiation 163 (CD163) and CD68 gene expression correlated significantly but weakly with mean standardized uptake value in scans performed 85 minutes post injection (P... simultaneous PET/MRI to measure 64Cu-DOTATATE uptake in carotid artery plaques before carotid endarterectomy. 64Cu-DOTATATE uptake was significantly higher in symptomatic plaque versus the contralateral carotid artery (P
The prolactin receptor is expressed in macrophages within human carotid atherosclerotic plaques: a role for prolactin in atherogenesis?
A. Reuwer; M. van Eijk; F. Houttuijn-Bloemendaal; C. van der Loos; N. Claessen; P. Teeling; J.J. Kastelein; J. Hamann; V. Goffin; J. von der Thüsen; M. Twickler; J. Aten
Atherosclerotic vascular disease is the consequence of a chronic inflammatory process, and prolactin has been shown to be a component of the inflammatory response. Additionally, recent studies indicate that prolactin contributes to an atherogenic phenotype. We hypothesized that this may be the resul
Sriranjan, Rouchelle S; Tarkin, Jason M; Evans, Nicholas R; Chowdhury, Mohammed M; Rudd, James H
Recent advances in imaging technology have enabled us to utilise a range of diagnostic approaches to better characterise high-risk atherosclerotic plaque. The aim of this article is to review current and emerging techniques used to detect and quantify unstable plaque in the context of large and small arterial systems and will focus on both invasive and non-invasive imaging techniques. While the diagnosis of clinically relevant atherosclerosis still relies heavily on anatomical assessment of arterial luminal stenosis, evolving multimodal cross-sectional imaging techniques that encompass novel molecular probes can provide added information with regard to plaque composition and overall disease burden. Novel molecular probes currently being developed to track precursors of plaque rupture such as inflammation, micro-calcification, hypoxia and neoangiogenesis are likely to have translational applications beyond diagnostics and have the potential to play a part in quantifying early responses to therapeutic interventions and more accurate cardiovascular risk stratification. PMID:27273430
Reproducibility of volumetric intravascular ultrasound radiofrequency-based analysis of coronary plaque composition in vivo.
Hartmann, Marc; Mattern, Eline S K; Huisman, Jennifer; van Houwelingen, Gert K; de Man, Frits H A F; Stoel, Martin G; Danse, Peter W; Louwerenburg, Hans W; von Birgelen, Clemens
Intravascular ultrasound radiofrequency (RF-IVUS) data permit the analysis of coronary plaque composition in vivo and is used as an endpoint of ongoing pharmacological intervention trials. We assessed the reproducibility of volumetric RF-IVUS analyses in mild-to-moderately diseased atherosclerotic human coronary arteries in vivo. A total of 9,212 IVUS analyses on cross-sectional IVUS frames was performed to evaluate the reproducibility of volumetric RF-IVUS measurements in 33 coronary segments with a length of 27 +/- 7 mm. For vessel, lumen, and plaque + media volume the relative measurement differences (P = NS for all) were (A = intraobserver comparison, same pullback) -0.40 +/- 1.0%; -0.48 +/- 1.4%; -0.35 +/- 1.6%, (B = intraobserver comparison, repeated pullback) -0.42 +/- 1.2%; -0.52 +/- 1.8%; -0.43 +/- 4.5% (C = interobserver comparison, same pullback) 0.71 +/- 1.8%; 0.71 +/- 2.2%, and 0.89 +/- 5.0%, respectively. For fibrous, fibro-lipidic, calcium, and necrotic-core volumes the relative measurement differences (P = NS for all) were (A) 0.45 +/- 2.1%; -1.12 +/- 4.9%; -0.84 +/- 2.1%; -0.22 +/- 1.8%, (B) 1.40 +/- 4.1%; 1.26 +/- 6.7%; 2.66 +/- 7.4%; 0.85 +/- 4.4%, and (C) -1.60 +/- 4.9%; 3.85 +/- 8.2%; 1.66 +/- 7.5%, and -1.58 +/- 4.7%, respectively. Of note, necrotic-core volume showed on average the lowest measurement variability. Thus, in mild-to-moderate atherosclerotic coronary artery disease the reproducibility of volumetric compositional RF-IVUS measurements from the same pullback is relatively high, but lower than the reproducibility of geometrical IVUS measurements. Measurements from repeated pullbacks and by different observers show acceptable reproducibilities; the volumetric measurement of the necrotic-core shows on average the highest reproducibility of the compositional RF-IVUS measurements. PMID:18704753
Distribution of selected elements in atherosclerotic plaques of apoE/LDLR-double knockout mice subjected to dietary and pharmacological treatments
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Gajda, Mariusz, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Department of Histology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 7, 31-034 Krakow (Poland); Kowalska, Joanna [Institute of Nuclear Physics, Radzikowskiego 152, 31-342 Krakow (Poland); Banas, Agnieszka; Banas, Krzysztof [Singapore Synchrotron Light Source, National University of Singapore, 5 Research Link, 117603 Singapore (Singapore); Kwiatek, Wojciech M. [Institute of Nuclear Physics, Radzikowskiego 152, 31-342 Krakow (Poland); Kostogrys, Renata B. [Department of Human Nutrition, Agricultural University of Krakow, Balicka 122, 30-149, Krakow (Poland); Mateuszuk, Lukasz; ChLopicki, Stefan [Department of Experimental Pharmacology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 7, 31-531 Krakow (Poland); Litwin, Jan A. [Department of Histology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Kopernika 7, 31-034 Krakow (Poland); Appel, Karen [Hasylab, DESY, Notkestrasse 85, D-22607, Hamburg (Germany)
Gene-targeted, apolipoprotein E and LDL receptor-double knockout (apoE/LDLR{sup -/-}) mice represent a new animal model that displays severe hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis. The aim of the present study was to show changes in histomorphology and in distribution of selected elements in atherosclerotic plaques of apoE/LDLR{sup -/-} mice fed egg-rich proatherosclerotic diet (5% egg-yolk lyophilisate) supplemented or not with perindopril (inhibitor of angiotensin converting enzyme; 2 mg/kg b.w.). Synchrotron radiation micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry was combined with histological stainings to determine distribution and concentration of trace and essential elements in atherosclerotic lesions. More advanced atherosclerotic lesions expressed by total area occupied by lipids (oil red-O staining) and by macrophages (CD68 immunohistochemistry) were observed in animals fed egg-rich diet. The perindopril treatment attenuated these effects. No significant differences were observed in the number of intimal smooth muscle cells (smooth muscle actin immunohistochemistry). In animals fed egg-rich diet significantly higher concentrations of Ca and significantly lower contents of S, Cl, , Fe, Cu, Zn and Se in atheromas were seen in comparison to chow diet-fed animals. After pharmacological treatment, concentrations of S, Cl, Fe, Cu, Zn and Se showed the tendency to achieve levels like in animals fed normal diet. K level differed only in group treated with perindopril. Concentration of P did not significantly vary in all experimental groups. Perindopril showed its potency to reduce atherosclerosis, as estimated by the size of the atheroma and content of pro- and antiatherogenic elements.
Distribution of selected elements in atherosclerotic plaques of apoE/LDLR-double knockout mice subjected to dietary and pharmacological treatments
Gajda, Mariusz; Kowalska, Joanna; Banaś, Agnieszka; Banaś, Krzysztof; Kwiatek, Wojciech M.; Kostogrys, Renata B.; Mateuszuk, łukasz; ChŁopicki, Stefan; Litwin, Jan A.; Appel, Karen
Gene-targeted, apolipoprotein E and LDL receptor-double knockout (apoE/LDLR -/-) mice represent a new animal model that displays severe hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis. The aim of the present study was to show changes in histomorphology and in distribution of selected elements in atherosclerotic plaques of apoE/LDLR -/- mice fed egg-rich proatherosclerotic diet (5% egg-yolk lyophilisate) supplemented or not with perindopril (inhibitor of angiotensin converting enzyme; 2 mg/kg b.w.). Synchrotron radiation micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry was combined with histological stainings to determine distribution and concentration of trace and essential elements in atherosclerotic lesions. More advanced atherosclerotic lesions expressed by total area occupied by lipids (oil red-O staining) and by macrophages (CD68 immunohistochemistry) were observed in animals fed egg-rich diet. The perindopril treatment attenuated these effects. No significant differences were observed in the number of intimal smooth muscle cells (smooth muscle actin immunohistochemistry). In animals fed egg-rich diet significantly higher concentrations of Ca and significantly lower contents of S, Cl, , Fe, Cu, Zn and Se in atheromas were seen in comparison to chow diet-fed animals. After pharmacological treatment, concentrations of S, Cl, Fe, Cu, Zn and Se showed the tendency to achieve levels like in animals fed normal diet. K level differed only in group treated with perindopril. Concentration of P did not significantly vary in all experimental groups. Perindopril showed its potency to reduce atherosclerosis, as estimated by the size of the atheroma and content of pro- and antiatherogenic elements.
Grating-based X-ray phase-contrast tomography of atherosclerotic plaque at high photon energies
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Hetterich, Holger; Fill, Sandra [Klinikum der Ludwig-Maximilians-Univ., Muenchen (Germany). Inst. fuer Klinische Radiologie; Herzen, Julia [Technische Univ. Muenchen, Garching (Germany). Physik-Dept. und Inst. fuer Medizintechnik; Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Geesthacht (Germany). Zentrum fuer Materialforschung] [and others
Background: Tissue characterization of atherosclerosis by absorption-based imaging methods is limited due to low soft-tissue contrast. Grating-based phase-contrast computed tomography (PC-CT) may become an alternative for plaque assessment if the phase signal can be retrieved at clinically applicable photon energies. The aims of this feasibility study were (i) to characterize arterial vessels at low and high photon energies, (ii) to extract qualitative features and (iii) quantitative phase-contrast Hounsfield units (HU-phase) of plaque components at 53 keV using histopathology as gold standard. Materials and methods: Five human carotid artery specimens underwent grating-based PC-CT using synchrotron radiation of either 23 keV or 53 keV and histological work-up. Specimens without advanced atherosclerosis were used to extract signal criteria of vessel layers. Diseased specimens were screened for important plaque components including fibrous tissue (FT), lipid (LIP), necrotic core (NEC), intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH), inflammatory cell infiltration (INF) and calcifications (CA). Qualitative features as well as quantitative HU-phase were analyzed. Results: Thirty-three regions in 6 corresponding PC-CT scans and histology sections were identified. Healthy samples had the same signal characteristics at 23 keV and 53 keV with bright tunica intima and adventitia and dark media. Plaque components showed differences in signal intensity and texture at 53 keV. Quantitative analysis demonstrated the highest HU-phase of soft plaque in dense FT. Less organized LIP, NEC and INF were associated with lower HU-phase values. The highest HU-phase were measured in CA. Conclusion: PC-CT of atherosclerosis is feasible at high, clinically relevant photon energies and provides detailed information about plaque structure including features of high risk vulnerable plaques. (orig.)
The effect of lipid regulation with atorvastatin on the blood lipid levels and carotid artery plaques in patients with atherosclerotic cerebral infarction
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Shu XU
Full Text Available Objective To analyze the effect of intensive lipid regulation treatment with atorvastatin on the blood lipid levels and carotid artery plaques in patients with atherosclerotic cerebral infarction. Methods Ninety-two patients with atherosclerotic cerebral infarction were randomly divided into two groups: observation group (treated by atorvastatin calcium with the dosage of 20 mg/d, N = 46 and control group (treated by diet without lipid-rich food, N=46. Besides, other drugs given to the patients in two groups were the same. The blood lipid levels and the changes of carotid artery plaques in two groups were analyzed and compared before treatment and 3 months after treatment. Results After treatment, the concentrations of total cholesterol [TC, (4.23 ± 0.92 mmol/L vs (5.24 ± 0.68 mmol/L], triglyceride [TG, (2.46 ± 0.28 mmol/L vs (3.33 ± 0.47 mmol/L], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C, (2.52 ± 0.38 mmol/L vs (4.78 ± 0.86 mmol/L] in the patients of observation group were all decreased and significantly lower than those in the control group (P = 0.000, for all, and the concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C, (1.13 ± 0.41 mmol/L vs (0.85 ± 0.32 mmol/L] in the patients of observation group was increased and significantly than that in the control group (P = 0.003. The carotid artery plaque size [(20.25 ± 0.32 mm2 vs (24.42 ± 10.33 mm2] and thickness [(0.59 ± 0.13 mm vs (1.93 ± 0.23 mm] of carotid artery plaques and intima?media thickness [IMT, (1.32 ± 0.67 mm vs (1.63 ± 0.56 mm] of common carotid artery (CCA in the patients of observation group were all significantly lower than those in patients in the control group (P = 0.000, 0.000, 0.010, respectively. Comparing serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT, aspartate aminotransferase (AST, creatine kinase (CK and creatinine (Cr levels after treatment with before treatment, there was no significant difference between 2 groups (P > 0.05, for all. Conclusions
Clinical Study on Effect of Garlicin in Stabilizing the Carotid Artery Atherosclerotic Plaque in Patients with Primary Hypertension and Coronary Artery Disease
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
CHENG Wen-li; KE Yuan-nan; SHI Zai-xiang; WANG Ying; CHEN Li; JU Gao; FAN Shu-ying
Objective: To investigate the effect of garlicin in treating carotid artery atherosclerotic plaque (CAAP) in patients with primary hypertension and coronary heart disease (PHT-CHD). Methods: Seventynine patients with PHT-CHD were randomly divided into the treated group (39 patients) treated with garlicin and fosinopril and the control group (40 patients) treated with fosinopril alone. The change of CAAP was evaluated by high frequency ultrasonic examination every six months, and the changes of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were measured by ELISA, with the observation proceeding for 52 weeks totally. Results: By the end of the experiment, the number of complex plaques, Crouse integrals, intima-media thickness, serum ICAM-1 and hs-CRP were significantly lower in the treated group than those in the control group with significant difference (P<0.05). Conclusion; Garlicin could stabilize CAAP to a certain extent and shows a definite vascular protective effect in patients with PHT-CHD.
The role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in visualizing atherosclerotic carotid plaque vulnerability: Which injection protocol? Which scanning technique?
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Iezzi, Roberto, E-mail: email@example.com [Department of Bioimaging and Radiological Sciences, Institute of Radiology, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome (Italy); Petrone, Gianluigi [Institute of Pathology, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome (Italy); Ferrante, Angela [Department of Vascular Surgery, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome (Italy); Lauriola, Libero [Institute of Pathology, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome (Italy); Vincenzoni, Claudio [Department of Vascular Surgery, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome (Italy); Torre, Michele Fabio la [Department of Bioimaging and Radiological Sciences, Institute of Radiology, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome (Italy); Snider, Francesco [Department of Vascular Surgery, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome (Italy); Rindi, Guido [Institute of Pathology, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome (Italy); Bonomo, Lorenzo [Department of Bioimaging and Radiological Sciences, Institute of Radiology, "A. Gemelli" Hospital—Catholic University, L.go A Gemelli 8, 00168 Rome (Italy)
Highlights: • CEUS is a safe and efficacious technique for the identification and characterization of carotid plaque. • CEUS represents a diagnostic tool for the management of patients with carotid plaque, particularly in asymptomatic patients. • Improved diagnostic performance is achieved with the injection of 4 mL bolus of contrast-medium. • Improved diagnostic performance is achieved with the use of Dynamic Imaging rather than late-phase imaging. - Abstract: Purpose: To correlate the degree of plaque vulnerability as determined by contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) with histological findings. Secondary objectives were to optimize the CEUS acquisition technique and image evaluation methods. Materials and methods: Fifty consecutive patients, either symptomatic and asymptomatic referring to our department in order to perform carotid endarterectomy (TEA), were enrolled. Each patient provided informed consent before undergoing CEUS. Ultrasound examination was performed using high-frequency (8–14 MHz) linear probe and a non-linear pulse inversion technique (mechanical index: 0.09–1.3). A double contrast media injection (Sonovue, 2 mL and 4 mL; Bracco, Italy) was performed. Two videotapes were recorded for every injection: early "dynamic" phase and late "flash" phase, performed with 6 high mechanical index impulses. Movies were quantitatively and qualitatively evaluated. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation were statistically compared to immunohistological diagnosis of vulnerable plaque, considered as gold standard. Results: Qualitative CEUS evaluation obtained high statistical results when compared to immunohistological results, with values of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), and diagnostic accuracy of 94%, 68%, 87%, 85% and 86%, respectively, which became higher if considering only asymptomatic patient, with a NPV of 91%. Nevertheless, quantitative software evaluation proved less
Detection of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque and prediction of thrombosis events in a rabbit model using 18F-FDG -PET/CT.
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Quan-ming Zhao
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Detection of vulnerable plaques could be clinically significant in the prevention of cardiovascular events. We aimed to compare Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose ((18F-FDG uptake in vulnerable and stable plaques, and investigate the feasibility of predicting thrombosis events using Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT angiography. METHODS: Atherosclerosis was induced in 23 male New Zealand white rabbits. The rabbits underwent pharmacological triggering to induce thrombosis. A pre-triggered PET/CTA scan and a post-triggered PET/CTA scan were respectively performed. (18F-FDG uptake by the aorta was expressed as maximal standardized uptake value (SUVmax and mean SUV (SUVmean. SUVs were measured on serial 7.5 mm arterial segments. RESULTS: Thrombosis was identified in 15 of 23 rabbits. The pre-triggered SUVmean and SUVmax were 0.768 ± 0.111 and 0.804 ± 0.120, respectively, in the arterial segments with stable plaque, and 1.097 ± 0.189 and 1.229 ± 0.290, respectively, in the arterial segments with vulnerable plaque (P<0.001, respectively. The post-triggered SUVmean and SUVmax were 0.849 ± 0.167 and 0.906 ± 0.191, respectively in the arterial segments without thrombosis, and 1.152 ± 0.258 and 1.294 ± 0.313, respectively in the arterial segments with thrombosis (P<0.001, respectively. The values of SUVmean in the pre-triggered arterial segments were used to plot a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC for predicting thrombosis events. Area under the curve (AUC was 0.898. Maximal sensitivity and specificity (75.4% and 88.5%, respectively were obtained when SUVmean was 0.882. CONCLUSIONS: Vulnerable and stable plaques can be distinguished by quantitative analysis of (18F-FDG uptake in the arterial segments in this rabbit model. PET/CT may be used for predicting thrombosis events and risk-stratification in patients with atherosclerotic disease.
Chronic Internal Exposure to Low Dose 137Cs Induces Positive Impact on the Stability of Atherosclerotic Plaques by Reducing Inflammation in ApoE-/- Mice
Le Gallic, Clélia; Phalente, Yohann; Manens, Line; Dublineau, Isabelle; Benderitter, Marc; Gueguen, Yann; Lehoux, Stephanie; Ebrahimian, Teni G.
After Chernobyl and Fukushima Daï Chi, two major nuclear accidents, large amounts of radionuclides were released in the environment, mostly caesium 137 (137Cs). Populations living in contaminated territories are chronically exposed to radionuclides by ingestion of contaminated food. However, questions still remain regarding the effects of low dose ionizing radiation exposure on the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. We therefore investigated the effects of a chronic internal exposure to 137Cs on atherosclerosis in predisposed ApoE-/- mice. Mice were exposed daily to 0, 4, 20 or 100 kBq/l 137Cs in drinking water, corresponding to range of concentrations found in contaminated territories, for 6 or 9 months. We evaluated plaque size and phenotype, inflammatory profile, and oxidative stress status in different experimental groups. Results did not show any differences in atherosclerosis progression between mice exposed to 137Cs and unexposed controls. However, 137Cs exposed mice developed more stable plaques with decreased macrophage content, associated with reduced aortic expression of pro-inflammatory factors (CRP, TNFα, MCP-1, IFNγ) and adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and E-selectin). Lesions of mice exposed to 137Cs were also characterized by enhanced collagen and smooth muscle cell content, concurrent with reduced matrix metalloproteinase MMP8 and MMP13 expression. These results suggest that low dose chronic exposure of 137Cs in ApoE-/- mice enhances atherosclerotic lesion stability by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine and MMP production, resulting in collagen-rich plaques with greater smooth muscle cell and less macrophage content. PMID:26046630
Chronic Internal Exposure to Low Dose 137Cs Induces Positive Impact on the Stability of Atherosclerotic Plaques by Reducing Inflammation in ApoE-/- Mice.
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Clélia Le Gallic
Full Text Available After Chernobyl and Fukushima Daï Chi, two major nuclear accidents, large amounts of radionuclides were released in the environment, mostly caesium 137 (137Cs. Populations living in contaminated territories are chronically exposed to radionuclides by ingestion of contaminated food. However, questions still remain regarding the effects of low dose ionizing radiation exposure on the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases. We therefore investigated the effects of a chronic internal exposure to 137Cs on atherosclerosis in predisposed ApoE-/- mice. Mice were exposed daily to 0, 4, 20 or 100 kBq/l 137Cs in drinking water, corresponding to range of concentrations found in contaminated territories, for 6 or 9 months. We evaluated plaque size and phenotype, inflammatory profile, and oxidative stress status in different experimental groups. Results did not show any differences in atherosclerosis progression between mice exposed to 137Cs and unexposed controls. However, 137Cs exposed mice developed more stable plaques with decreased macrophage content, associated with reduced aortic expression of pro-inflammatory factors (CRP, TNFα, MCP-1, IFNγ and adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and E-selectin. Lesions of mice exposed to 137Cs were also characterized by enhanced collagen and smooth muscle cell content, concurrent with reduced matrix metalloproteinase MMP8 and MMP13 expression. These results suggest that low dose chronic exposure of 137Cs in ApoE-/- mice enhances atherosclerotic lesion stability by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine and MMP production, resulting in collagen-rich plaques with greater smooth muscle cell and less macrophage content.
Selective ablation of rabbit atherosclerotic plaque with less thermal effect by the control of pulse structure of a quantum cascade laser in the 5.7 μm wavelength range
Hashimura, Keisuke; Ishii, Katsunori; Awazu, Kunio
Cholesteryl esters are main components of atherosclerotic plaques and have an absorption peak at the wavelength of 5.75 μm originated from C=O stretching vibration mode of ester bond. Our group achieved the selective ablation of atherosclerotic lesions using a quantum cascade laser (QCL) in the 5.7 μm wavelength range. QCLs are relatively new types of semiconductor lasers that can emit mid-infrared range. They are sufficiently compact and considered to be useful for clinical application. However, large thermal effects were observed because the QCL worked as quasicontinuous wave (CW) lasers due to its short pulse interval. Then we tried macro pulse irradiation (irradiation of pulses at intervals) of the QCL and achieved effective ablation with less-thermal effects than conventional quasi-CW irradiation. However, lesion selectivity might be changed by changing pulse structure. Therefore, in this study, irradiation effects of the macro pulse irradiation to rabbit atherosclerotic plaque and normal vessel were compared. The macro pulse width and the macro pulse interval were set to 0.5 and 12 ms, respectively, because the thermal relaxation time of rabbit normal and atherosclerotic aortas in the oscillation wavelength of the QCL was 0.5-12 ms. As a result, cutting difference was achieved between rabbit atherosclerotic and normal aortas by the macro pulse irradiation. Therefore, macro pulse irradiation of a QCL in the 5.7 μm wavelength range is effective for reducing thermal effects and selective ablation of the atherosclerotic plaque. QCLs have the potential of realizing less-invasive laser angioplasty.
Atherosclerotic Plaque Inflammation Varies Between Vascular Sites and Correlates With Response to Inhibition of Lipoprotein‐Associated Phospholipase A2
Fenning, Robert S.; Burgert, Mark E.; Hamamdzic, Damir; Peyster, Eliot G.; Mohler, Emile R; Kangovi, Shreya; Jucker, Beat M.; Lenhard, Stephen C.; Macphee, Colin H.; Wilensky, Robert L.
Background Despite systemic exposure to risk factors, the circulatory system develops varying patterns of atherosclerosis for unclear reasons. In a porcine model, we investigated the relationship between site‐specific lesion development and inflammatory pathways involved in the coronary arteries (CORs) and distal abdominal aortas (AAs). Methods and Results Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypercholesterolemia (HC) were induced in 37 pigs with 3 healthy controls. Site‐specific plaque development was...
Application of CT angiography of carotid atherosclerotic plaque in patients with ischemic cerebral stroke%颈动脉斑块 CT 血管成像在缺血性脑卒中患者中的应用
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
郑玉飞; 朱丽丽; 王卓群; 徐辉
Objective To analysis 64-slice CT angiography imaging features of carotid atherosclerotic plaque and explore the relationship between different types of carotid atherosclerotic plaque and ischemic cerebral stroke. Methods The clinical data of 60 cases of ischemic cerebral stroke were retrospectively analyzed, all the cases were underwent 64-detector row CT angiography, and the distribution, character and morphological characteristics of carotid atherosclerotic plaque, and morphological characteristics and the extent of stenosis were observed with the original ax -ial image,volume rendering ( VR) and curved planar reconstruction ( CPR). Results In the 60 cases of ischemic cer-ebral stroke,58 cases with carotid atherosclerotic plaque were found. A total of 228 plaques were detected, including 43 non-calcified plaque, 125 calcified plaque and 60 mixed plaque. In 60 cases, 170 mild stenosis, 20 moderate ste-nosis, 12 severe stenosis and 1 occlusion were found, no significant stenosis were found in 20 sites. Five calcified plaques were found in intracranial segment of internal carotid artery, and CT can′t evaluate the severity of the steno-sis. There was significantly statistical difference in unstable plaque between non-lacunar infarct and lacunar infarct (P<0. 05 ). Conclusion 64-detector row CT angiography of carotid atherosclerotic plaques can accurately detect the dis -tribution, character and morphological characteristics of carotid atherosclerotic plaque and the degree of stenosis of ca -rotid artery,it is a valuable method in prevention, treatment, and prognosis judgement of ischemic cerebral stroke.%目的:通过分析颈动脉斑块64排CT血管成像特点,探讨不同类型颈动脉斑块与缺血性脑卒中的相关性。方法回顾分析60例缺血性脑卒中患者头颈部64排CT血管成像资料,轴位原始图像结合容积再现( VR)及曲面重建( CPR),观察颈动脉斑块的分布、性质及形态特征,测量�
Quantitative analysis of ultrasound B-mode images of carotid atherosclerotic plaque: correlation with visual classification and histological examination
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Wilhjelm, Jens E.; Grønholdt, Marie-Louise; Wiebe, Brit;
a correlation coefficient of r = -0.42 (p = 0.002), for mean echogenicity of the plaque region. The best performing feature was of second order and denoted Contrast (r = -0.5). Though significant, the latter correlation is probably not strong enough to be useful for clinical prediction of relative volume...... of subjective classification with features from still ultrasound images revealed an overall agreement of 60 % for classification of echogenicity and 70 % for classification of structure. Comparison of the histologically determined relative volume of soft materials with features from the still images revealed...
Disturbed flow mediated modulation of shear forces on endothelial plane: A proposed model for studying endothelium around atherosclerotic plaques
Balaguru, Uma Maheswari; Sundaresan, Lakshmikirupa; Manivannan, Jeganathan; Majunathan, Reji; Mani, Krishnapriya; Swaminathan, Akila; Venkatesan, Saravanakumar; Kasiviswanathan, Dharanibalan; Chatterjee, Suvro
Disturbed fluid flow or modulated shear stress is associated with vascular conditions such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and aneurysm. In vitro simulation of the fluid flow around the plaque micro-environment remains a challenging approach. Currently available models have limitations such as complications in protocols, high cost, incompetence of co-culture and not being suitable for massive expression studies. Hence, the present study aimed to develop a simple, versatile model based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation. Current observations of CFD have shown the regions of modulated shear stress by the disturbed fluid flow. To execute and validate the model in real sense, cell morphology, cytoskeletal arrangement, cell death, reactive oxygen species (ROS) profile, nitric oxide production and disturbed flow markers under the above condition were assessed. Endothelium at disturbed flow region which had been exposed to low shear stress and swirling flow pattern showed morphological and expression similarities with the pathological disturbed flow environment reported previously. Altogether, the proposed model can serve as a platform to simulate the real time micro-environment of disturbed flow associated with eccentric plaque shapes and the possibilities of studying its downstream events.
Disturbed flow mediated modulation of shear forces on endothelial plane: A proposed model for studying endothelium around atherosclerotic plaques.
Balaguru, Uma Maheswari; Sundaresan, Lakshmikirupa; Manivannan, Jeganathan; Majunathan, Reji; Mani, Krishnapriya; Swaminathan, Akila; Venkatesan, Saravanakumar; Kasiviswanathan, Dharanibalan; Chatterjee, Suvro
Disturbed fluid flow or modulated shear stress is associated with vascular conditions such as atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and aneurysm. In vitro simulation of the fluid flow around the plaque micro-environment remains a challenging approach. Currently available models have limitations such as complications in protocols, high cost, incompetence of co-culture and not being suitable for massive expression studies. Hence, the present study aimed to develop a simple, versatile model based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation. Current observations of CFD have shown the regions of modulated shear stress by the disturbed fluid flow. To execute and validate the model in real sense, cell morphology, cytoskeletal arrangement, cell death, reactive oxygen species (ROS) profile, nitric oxide production and disturbed flow markers under the above condition were assessed. Endothelium at disturbed flow region which had been exposed to low shear stress and swirling flow pattern showed morphological and expression similarities with the pathological disturbed flow environment reported previously. Altogether, the proposed model can serve as a platform to simulate the real time micro-environment of disturbed flow associated with eccentric plaque shapes and the possibilities of studying its downstream events. PMID:27255968
Differential effects of Nd-YAG laser on collagen and elastin production by chick embryo aortae in vitro. Relevance to laser angioplasty for removal of atherosclerotic plaques
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Abergel, R.P.; Zaragoza, E.J.; Dwyer, R.M.; Uitto, J.
Aortae from 17-day old chick embryos were subjected to irradiation with a Nd:YAG laser at energy densities varying from 1.2 - 4.7 X 10(3) J/cm2. The aortae were pulse-labeled in vitro with (/sup 3/H)proline or (/sup 14/C)valine, and the synthesis of collagenous polypeptides and soluble elastin was examined by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, followed by fluorography and quantitative scanning densitometry. Irradiation of the aortae with Nd:YAG laser resulted in inhibition of the synthesis of the extracellular matrix proteins. The production of collagen was inhibited to a considerably larger degree than the production of elastin. Thus, the biosynthetic pathway for collagen production appears to be more susceptible to laser inhibition than the corresponding pathway for elastin production. These observations may have relevance to laser angioplasty which has been proposed to be applicable for removal of atherosclerotic plaques in human vessels. Specifically, the results suggest that inhibition of the extracellular matrix production may result in weakening of the vessel wall with subsequent aneurysm formation and rupture.
Two-Point Stretchable Electrode Array for Endoluminal Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy Measurements of Lipid-Laden Atherosclerotic Plaques.
Packard, René R Sevag; Zhang, XiaoXiao; Luo, Yuan; Ma, Teng; Jen, Nelson; Ma, Jianguo; Demer, Linda L; Zhou, Qifa; Sayre, James W; Li, Rongsong; Tai, Yu-Chong; Hsiai, Tzung K
Four-point electrode systems are commonly used for electric impedance measurements of biomaterials and tissues. We introduce a 2-point system to reduce electrode polarization for heterogeneous measurements of vascular wall. Presence of endoluminal oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and lipids alters the electrochemical impedance that can be measured by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). We developed a catheter-based 2-point micro-electrode configuration for intravascular deployment in New Zealand White rabbits. An array of 2 flexible round electrodes, 240 µm in diameter and separated by 400 µm was microfabricated and mounted on an inflatable balloon catheter for EIS measurement of the oxLDL-rich lesions developed as a result of high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia. Upon balloon inflation, the 2-point electrode array conformed to the arterial wall to allow deep intraplaque penetration via alternating current (AC). The frequency sweep from 10 to 300 kHz generated an increase in capacitance, providing distinct changes in both impedance (Ω) and phase (ϕ) in relation to varying degrees of intraplaque lipid burden in the aorta. Aortic endoluminal EIS measurements were compared with epicardial fat tissue and validated by intravascular ultrasound and immunohistochemistry for plaque lipids and foam cells. Thus, we demonstrate a new approach to quantify endoluminal EIS via a 2-point stretchable electrode strategy.
Investigation of the composition of arterial plaques based on arterial waveforms and material properties.
Feng, J; Rajeswaran, T; He, S; Wilkinson, F L; Serracino-Inglott, F; Azzawi, M; Parikh, V; Miraftab, M; Alexander, M Y
Stroke is mainly caused by a narrowing of the carotid artery from a build-up of plaque. The risk of plaque rupture and subsequent stroke is dependent on plaque composition. Advances in imaging modalities offer a non-invasive means to assess the health of blood vessels and detect damage. However, the current diagnosis fails to identify patients with soft lipid plaque that are more susceptible to fissure, resulting in stroke. The aim of this study was to use waveform analysis to identify plaque composition and the risk of rupture. We have investigated pressure and flow by combining an artificial blood flow circuit with tubing containing different materials, to simulate plaques in a blood vessel. We used fat and bone to model lipid and calcification respectively to determine if the composition of plaques can be identified by arterial waveforms. We demonstrate that the arterial plaque models with different percentages of calcification and fat, results in significantly different arterial waveforms. These findings imply that arterial waveform analysis has the potential for further development to identify the vulnerable plaques prone to rupture. These findings could have implications for improved patient prognosis by speed of detection and a more appropriate treatment strategy. PMID:26736431
Coronary plaque composition as assessed by greyscale intravascular ultrasound and radiofrequency spectral data analysis
N. Gonzalo (Nieves); H.M. Garcia-Garcia (Hector); J.M.R. Ligthart (Jürgen); G.A. Rodriguez-Granillo (Gaston); E. Meliga (Emanuele); Y. Onuma (Yoshinobu); J.C.H. Schuurbiers (Johan); N. Bruining (Nico); P.W.J.C. Serruys (Patrick)
textabstractObjectives: (i) To explore the relation between greyscale intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) plaque qualitative classification and IVUS radiofrequency data (RFD) analysis tissue types; (ii) to evaluate if plaque composition as assessed by RFD analysis can be predicted by visual assessment o
Coronary-Heart-Disease-Associated Genetic Variant at the COL4A1/COL4A2 Locus Affects COL4A1/COL4A2 Expression, Vascular Cell Survival, Atherosclerotic Plaque Stability and Risk of Myocardial Infarction.
Yang, Wei; Ng, Fu Liang; Chan, Kenneth; Pu, Xiangyuan; Poston, Robin N; Ren, Meixia; An, Weiwei; Zhang, Ruoxin; Wu, Jingchun; Yan, Shunying; Situ, Haiteng; He, Xinjie; Chen, Yequn; Tan, Xuerui; Xiao, Qingzhong; Tucker, Arthur T; Caulfield, Mark J; Ye, Shu
Genome-wide association studies have revealed an association between coronary heart disease (CHD) and genetic variation on chromosome 13q34, with the lead single nucleotide polymorphism rs4773144 residing in the COL4A2 gene in this genomic region. We investigated the functional effects of this genetic variant. Analyses of primary cultures of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) from different individuals showed a difference between rs4773144 genotypes in COL4A2 and COL4A1 expression levels, being lowest in the G/G genotype, intermediate in A/G and highest in A/A. Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by allelic imbalance assays of primary cultures of SMCs and ECs that were of the A/G genotype revealed that the G allele had lower transcriptional activity than the A allele. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays and luciferase reporter gene assays showed that a short DNA sequence encompassing the rs4773144 site interacted with a nuclear protein, with lower efficiency for the G allele, and that the G allele sequence had lower activity in driving reporter gene expression. Analyses of cultured SMCs from different individuals demonstrated that cells of the G/G genotype had higher apoptosis rates. Immunohistochemical and histological examinations of ex vivo atherosclerotic coronary arteries from different individuals disclosed that atherosclerotic plaques with the G/G genotype had lower collagen IV abundance and thinner fibrous cap, a hallmark of unstable, rupture-prone plaques. A study of a cohort of patients with angiographically documented coronary artery disease showed that patients of the G/G genotype had higher rates of myocardial infarction, a phenotype often caused by plaque rupture. These results indicate that the CHD-related genetic variant at the COL4A2 locus affects COL4A2/COL4A1 expression, SMC survival, and atherosclerotic plaque stability, providing a mechanistic explanation for the association between the genetic variant and CHD
Advances in the Study of the Association between Uric Acid and Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque%尿酸与颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的关系研究进展
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
李勍; 赵锡海; 赵性泉
Although in the past decade a large number of studies have been performed to identify the relationship between uric acid and carotid atherosclerotic plaques, the issue remains unresolved and it is not clear whether the correlation between uric acid and carotid plaques is circumstantial or causal. This review will evaluate the association between uric acid and carotid atherosclerotic plaques. Some studies have found uric acid may have a role in the pathogenesis of carotid plaques, whereas others have failed to identify uric acid as a signiifcant and independent risk factor after controlling for other atherosclerotic risk factors. Furthermore, uric acid, an endogenous antioxidant, may have a neuroprotective role. More trials are required to provide deifnite answers in clinical practice in the future.%目前尚不清楚尿酸和颈动脉粥样硬化斑块之间是否有直接或间接的因果关系。一些研究发现,尿酸可能在颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的发病机制中起作用;而另外一些研究显示尚不能确定尿酸是独立危险因素。此外,尿酸作为一种内源性抗氧化剂,可能有神经保护作用。为找到明确的答案,仍然需要进行更多基础和临床试验研究。
Enhanced External Counterpulsation Treatment May Intervene The Advanced Atherosclerotic Plaque Progression by Inducing The Variations of Mechanical Factors: A 3D FSI Study Based on in vivo Animal Experiment.
Du, Jianhang; Wang, Liang
Growing evidences suggest that long-term enhanced external counter-pulsation (EECP) treatment can inhibit the initiation of atherosclerotic lesion by improving the hemodynamic environment in aortas. However, whether this kind procedure will intervene the progression of advanced atherosclerotic plaque remains elusive and causes great concern in its clinical application presently. In the current paper, a pilot study combining animal experiment and numerical simulation was conducted to investigate the acute mechanical stress variations during EECP intervention, and then to assess the possible chronic effects. An experimentally induced hypercholesterolemic porcine model was developed and the basic hemodynamic measurement was performed in vivo before and during EECP treatment. Meanwhile, A 3D fluid-structure interaction (FSI) model of blood vessel with symmetric local stenosis was developed for the numerical calculation of some important mechanical factors. The results show that EECP augmented 12.21% of the plaque wall stress (PWS), 57.72% of the time average wall shear stress (AWSS) and 43.67% of the non-dimensional wall shear stress gradient (WSSGnd) at throat site of the stenosis. We suggest that long-term EECP treatment may intervene the advanced plaque progression by inducing the significant variations of some important mechanical factors, but its proper effects will need a further research combined follow-up observation in clinic. PMID:27263260
Correlation between Plaque Composition as assessed by Virtual Histology and C-reactive Protein
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Siqueira, Dimytri Alexandre de Alvim, E-mail: email@example.com; Sousa, Amanda Guerra Moraes R.; Costa Junior, José de Ribamar; Costa, Ricardo Alves da; Staico, Rodolfo; Tanajura, Luis Fernando Leite; Centemero, Marinella Patrizia; Feres, Fausto; Abizaid, Alexandre Antonio Cunha; Sousa, J. Eduardo Moraes R. [Instituto Dante Pazzanese de Cardiologia, São Paulo, SP (Brazil)
Previous studies have shown that coronary plaque composition plays a pivotal role in plaque instability, and imaging modalities and serum biomarkers have been investigated to identify vulnerable plaque. Virtual histology IVUS (VH-IVUS) characterizes plaque components as calcified, fibrotic, fibrofatty, or necrotic core. C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is an independent risk factor and a powerful predictor of future coronary events. However, a relationship between inflammatory response indicated by CRP and plaque characteristics in ACS patients remains not well established. To determine, by using VH-IVUS, the relation between coronary plaque components and plasma high-sensitivity CRP levels in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). 52 patients with ACS were enrolled in this prospective study. Electrocardiographically-gated VH-IVUS were performed in the culprit lesion before PCI. Blood sample was drawn from all patients before the procedure and after 24 hours, and hs-CRP levels were determined. Mean age was 55.3±4.9 years, 76.9% were men and 30.9% had diabetes. Mean MLA was 3.9±1.3 mm{sup 2}, and plaque burden was 69±11.3%, as assessed by IVUS. VH-IVUS analysis at the minimum luminal site identified plaque components: fibrotic (59.6±15.8%), fibrofatty (7.6±8.2%), dense calcium (12.1±9.2%) and necrotic core (20.7±12.7%). Plasma hs-CRP (mean 16.02±18.07 mg/L) did not correlate with necrotic core (r=-0.089, p = 0.53) and other plaque components. In this prospective study with patients with ACS, the predominant components of the culprit plaque were fibrotic and necrotic core. Serum hs C-reactive protein levels did not correlate with plaque composition.
颈动脉粥样硬化斑块与血浆纤维蛋白原的关系%Relationship between Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque and Plasma Fibrinogen
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
戴志刚; 王涛; 武文元
[ Objective ] To study the relationship between carotid atherosclerosis and plasma fibrinogen. [ Methods] Color Doppler was carried out on carotid artery of 65 carotid atherosclerotic patients, recording position, echo intensity of artherosclerotic plaque,carotid artery intima-media thickness and vessel inside diameter. According to carotid artery stenosis, the patients were divided into 4 groups, and were re-divided into 2 groups ( hard plaque and soft plaque ) on the basis of character of atherosclerotic plaque, meanwhile, detecting the level of plasma fibrinogen, and performing statistical analysis. [ Results ] With the increasing level of plasma fibrinogen , the degree of carotid atherosclerotic stenosis was increased, showing positive correlation; the rate of plasma fibrinogen soft plaque of middle and high density groups is obviously higher than the lower density group. [ Conclusion ] Plasma fibrinogen level is closely correlated with characteristic of carotid atherosclerotic plaque. Plasma fibrinogen may determine the stability of carotid atherosclerotic plaque. And the increasing level of plasma fibrinogen is closely related with carotid atherosclerosis and plays an important role in its development.%目的 探讨患者颈动脉粥样硬化程度以及颈动脉粥样硬化性质与血浆纤维蛋白原的关系.方法 对存在颈动脉粥样硬化的65例患者进行颈动脉彩色多普勒检查,记录颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的部位、回声强度、颈总动脉分叉处内膜中层厚度及血管内径,并根据颈动脉狭窄程度分为4组,再根据超声检查动脉硬化斑块性质分为硬斑和软斑2组,同时检测血浆纤维蛋白原水平,进行统计学分析.结果 随着血浆纤维蛋白原水平的升高,动脉粥样硬化狭窄程度也随之增加,且呈正相关;中、高浓度纤维蛋白原组软斑发生率明显多于低浓度组.结论 血浆纤维蛋白原水平与颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的性质有关,血浆纤维蛋�
冠状动脉内动脉粥样硬化易损斑块的检测和治疗进展%Advances of evaluation and treatment of atherosclerotic vulnerable plaque within coronary artery
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
The characteristics of vulnerable plaque are thin fibrous cap, high proportional atherosclerotic core, increased plaque inflammation, and intraplaque hemorrhage. Vulnerable plaques are apt to rupture,causing platelet adhesion, platelet aggregation, and thrombosis. Vulnerable plaque rupture within coronary artery may induce acute coronary events. Intravascular ultrasounds, virtual histology, palpography, optical coherence tomography, intravascular magnetic resonance imaging, angioscopy, and spectroscopy are currently methods for detecting vulnerable plaque. Drugs, regional therapy, and stents are main strategies for treating vulnerable plaque nowadays.%易损斑块的特征是纤维帽薄、动脉粥样硬化斑块核心比例高、斑块炎症明显及伴斑块内出血.易损斑块易发生破裂,引起血小板黏附聚集和血栓形成.冠状动脉内易损斑块破裂可引起急性冠脉事件.血管内超声、虚拟组织学成像、激应图成像、光学相干断层成像、血管内磁共振显像、血管镜、分光镜等是目前检测易损斑块的主要手段.对冠状动脉内易损斑块应积极干预,药物、局部治疗、安放支架等是目前治疗易损斑块的主要方法.
Interscan reproducibility of quantitative coronary plaque volume and composition from CT coronary angiography using an automated method
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Schuhbaeck, Annika; Achenbach, Stephan [University of Erlangen, Department of Cardiology, Erlangen (Germany); Dey, Damini [Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Biomedical Imaging Research Institute, Los Angeles (United States); Otaki, Yuka; Slomka, Piotr; Berman, Daniel S. [Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Department of Imaging and Medicine, Los Angeles (United States); Kral, Brian G.; Lai, Shenghan [Johns Hopkins University, Department of Medicine, Devision of Cardiology, Baltimore (United States); Fishman, Elliott K.; Lai, Hong [Johns Hopkins University, Department of Medicine, Devision of Cardiology, Baltimore (United States); Johns Hopkins University, Department of Radiology, Baltimore (United States)
Quantitative measurements of coronary plaque volume may play a role in serial studies to determine disease progression or regression. Our aim was to evaluate the interscan reproducibility of quantitative measurements of coronary plaque volumes using a standardized automated method. Coronary dual source computed tomography angiography (CTA) was performed twice in 20 consecutive patients with known coronary artery disease within a maximum time difference of 100 days. The total plaque volume (TP), the volume of non-calcified plaque (NCP) and calcified plaque (CP) as well as the maximal remodelling index (RI) were determined using automated software. Mean TP volume was 382.3 ± 236.9 mm{sup 3} for the first and 399.0 ± 247.3 mm{sup 3} for the second examination (p = 0.47). There were also no significant differences for NCP volumes, CP volumes or RI. Interscan correlation of the plaque volumes was very good (Pearson's correlation coefficients: r = 0.92, r = 0.90 and r = 0.96 for TP, NCP and CP volumes, respectively). Automated software is a time-saving method that allows accurate assessment of coronary atherosclerotic plaque volumes in coronary CTA with high reproducibility. With this approach, serial studies appear to be possible. (orig.)
动脉粥样硬化易损斑块的动物模型和检测技术%Animal Models and Detection Technologies of Vulnerable Atherosclerotic Plaques
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
陈文强; 张运
Vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque rupture leading to thrombosis is the major cause of acute coronary syndromes.While early detection or prevention the vulnerable plaque would be the only way to reduce the risk of this catastrophic life-threatening event,there is frustratingly little progress in either.Lack of suitable animal models has considerably hampered the research progress in understanding the mechanisms occurring in the development of plaque rupture.This review summarizes the currently available vulnerable plaque animal models and invasive and noninvasive imaging modalities used to detect vulnerable plaques,including high frequency duplex ultrasound,coronary tomographic angiography (CTA),magnetic resonance imaging (MRI),intravascular ultrasound (IVUS),optical coherence tomography (OCT),intravascular ultrasound elastography,and inflammatory markers.%动脉粥样硬化易损斑块破裂、血栓形成是急性冠状动脉综合征的发病机制已成为共识.由于缺乏理想的易损斑块的动物模型,对斑块破裂前的血清学及影像学特征研究较少,尚缺乏能够早期识别易损斑块及预防斑块破裂的最佳方法.本实验室已成功构建家兔和ApoE-/-小鼠的易损斑块模型.易损斑块的检测技术主要包括非侵入性及侵入性的影像学检测及功能学检测技术.对易损斑块的早期准确识别以便及时干预具有十分重要的临床意义.
The Distribution of Macrophages and the Mechanism of Macrophages Accumulation in Atheroscle-rotic Plaques%动脉粥样硬化斑块中巨噬细胞的分布与蓄积机制
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
王林青; 李全忠; 钱宗杰
动脉粥样硬化斑块破裂可导致严重的临床事件(如心肌梗死和脑卒中)。巨噬细胞是动脉粥样硬化斑块内最主要的炎性细胞,它可根据不同的微环境分化成不同表型的巨噬细胞。其中, M1型巨噬细胞主要位于斑块不稳定区,M2型巨噬细胞主要位于斑块的稳定区。随着动脉粥样硬化斑块的进展,斑块内积聚的巨噬细胞逐渐增多,而斑块内不断蓄积的巨噬细胞主要依赖于局部巨噬细胞的增殖,而不是血中单核细胞的分化。%The rupture of atherosclerotic plaque can lead to severe consequences, such as myocardial infraction and stroke.Macrophages are the predominant inflammatory cells within the plaques,which are very versatile and can polarize different phenotypes depending on the local microenvironment .M1 macrophages are exclusively found in unstable plaques and M2 macrophages being higher in stable plaques.The incremental accumulation of macrophages corresponded with plaque progression,are mainly derived from local prolifera-tion rather than from the influx of blood-borne monocytes.
MR histology of advanced atherosclerotic lesions of ApoE- knockout mice
Naumova, A.; Yarnykh, V.; Ferguson, M.; Rosenfeld, M.; Yuan, C.
The purposes of this study were to examine the feasibility of determining the composition of advanced atherosclerotic plaques in fixed ApoE-knockout mice and to develop a time-efficient microimaging protocol for MR histological imaging on mice. Five formalin-fixed transgenic ApoE-knockout mice were imaged at the 9.4T Bruker BioSpec MR scanner using 3D spoiled gradient-echo sequence with an isotropic field of view of 24 mm3; TR 20.8 ms; TE 2.6 ms; flip angle 20°, resulted voxel size 47 × 63 × 94 pm3. MRI examination has shown that advanced atherosclerotic lesions of aorta, innominate and carotid arteries in ApoE-knockout mice are characterized by high calcification and presence of the large fibrofatty nodules. MRI quantification of atherosclerotic lesion components corresponded to histological assessment of plaque composition with a correlation coefficient of 0.98.
The Study on the Factors of the Formation of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque%颈动脉粥样硬化斑块形成的相关因素分析
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
邓珊; 佘军红; 翁保慧; 阳洪
目的 探讨颈动脉斑块形成的主要相关因素,以指导临床进行缺血性脑卒中的预防.方法 选择2010年12月至2011年3月期间在广西医科大学第四附属医院住院的患者61例,检测所有患者血三酰甘油、总胆固醇、低密度脂蛋白、血糖、单核细胞计数、超敏C反应蛋白、肌酐、β2微球蛋白水平;记录患者既往是否有高血压病、糖尿病、吸烟史.采用彩色多普勒超声仪观察颈动脉管壁内膜中层厚度.结果 两组间单因素比较显示斑块组年龄、高血压病发生率、糖代谢异常发生率、超敏C反应蛋白及吸烟水平高于非斑块组;两组间性别、总胆固醇、三酰甘油、低密度脂蛋白、单核细胞计数、肌酐、β2微球蛋白水平比较差异无统计学意义.Logistic回归分析结果显示年龄、收缩压及吸烟进入回归方程,并有统计学意义.结论 在本研究中发现年龄、收缩压及吸烟是颈动脉斑块形成的独立危险因素.%Objective To investigate the major factors of the formation of carotid atherosclerotic plaque so as to prevent cerebral arterial thrombosis. Methods A total of 61 inpatients admitted to Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University from December 2010 to March 2011 were included. They were measured the level of some possible risk fators including TG, TC, LDL, blood sugar, monocyte count, supersensitivity C reactive protein, creatinine, (32 microglobulin; the history of past illness including hypertensive disease, diabetes mellitus and smoking were recorded. The diacrisis of the formation of carotid atherosclerotic plaque was done according to the color Doppler to investigate layer thickness of endomembrane along the line feed of arteria carotis communis from lengthways and athwartships. Results The mean age, incidences of hypertension, abnormal glycome-tabolism, supersensitivity C reactive protein and smokings were higher in patients with carotid plaques than in
Current status of vulnerable plaque detection.
LENUS (Irish Health Repository)
Sharif, Faisal
Critical coronary stenoses have been shown to contribute to only a minority of acute coronary syndromes (ACS) and sudden cardiac death. Autopsy studies have identified a subgroup of high-risk patients with disrupted vulnerable plaque and modest stenosis. Consequently, a clinical need exists to develop methods to identify these plaques prospectively before disruption and clinical expression of disease. Recent advances in invasive and noninvasive imaging techniques have shown the potential to identify these high-risk plaques. The anatomical characteristics of the vulnerable plaque such as thin cap fibroatheroma and lipid pool can be identified with angioscopy, high frequency intravascular ultrasound, intravascular MRI, and optical coherence tomography. Efforts have also been made to recognize active inflammation in high-risk plaques using intravascular thermography. Plaque chemical composition by measuring electromagnetic radiation using spectroscopy is also an emerging technology to detect vulnerable plaques. Noninvasive imaging with MRI, CT, and PET also holds the potential to differentiate between low and high-risk plaques. However, at present none of these imaging modalities are able to detect vulnerable plaque neither has been shown to definitively predict outcome. Nevertheless in contrast, there has been a parallel development in the physiological assessment of advanced atherosclerotic coronary artery disease. Thus recent trials using fractional flow reserve in patients with modest non flow-limiting stenoses have shown that deferral of PCI with optimal medical therapy in these patients is superior to coronary intervention. Further trials are needed to provide more information regarding the natural history of high-risk but non flow-limiting plaque to establish patient-specific targeted therapy and to refine plaque stabilizing strategies in the future.
Identification of periodontal pathogens in atherosclerotic vessels
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Fiehn, Nils-Erik; Larsen, Tove; Christiansen, Natalia;
Epidemiological studies have shown that periodontitis may be associated with presence of atherosclerosis. DNA from periodontal pathogens has been detected in atherosclerotic lesions, but viable oral bacteria have not yet been isolated from atherosclerotic plaques. The purpose of the present study...... was to determine if viable oral bacteria could be isolated from atherosclerotic lesions and if DNA from periodontal pathogens could be detected by use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques....
Identification of periodontal pathogens in atherosclerotic vessels
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Fiehn, Nils-Erik; Larsen, Tove; Christiansen, Natalia;
Epidemiological studies have shown that periodontitis may be associated with presence of atherosclerosis. DNA from periodontal pathogens has been detected in atherosclerotic lesions, but viable oral bacteria have not yet been isolated from atherosclerotic plaques. The purpose of the present study...
Do Dental Resin Composites Accumulate More Oral Biofilms and Plaque than Amalgam and Glass Ionomer Materials?
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Ning Zhang
Full Text Available A long-time drawback of dental composites is that they accumulate more biofilms and plaques than amalgam and glass ionomer restorative materials. It would be highly desirable to develop a new composite with reduced biofilm growth, while avoiding the non-esthetics of amalgam and low strength of glass ionomer. The objectives of this study were to: (1 develop a protein-repellent composite with reduced biofilms matching amalgam and glass ionomer for the first time; and (2 investigate their protein adsorption, biofilms, and mechanical properties. Five materials were tested: A new composite containing 3% of protein-repellent 2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC; the composite with 0% MPC as control; commercial composite control; dental amalgam; resin-modified glass ionomer (RMGI. A dental plaque microcosm biofilm model with human saliva as inoculum was used to investigate metabolic activity, colony-forming units (CFU, and lactic acid production. Composite with 3% MPC had flexural strength similar to those with 0% MPC and commercial composite control (p > 0.1, and much greater than RMGI (p < 0.05. Composite with 3% MPC had protein adsorption that was only 1/10 that of control composites (p < 0.05. Composite with 3% MPC had biofilm CFU and lactic acid much lower than control composites (p < 0.05. Biofilm growth, metabolic activity and lactic acid on the new composite with 3% MPC were reduced to the low level of amalgam and RMGI (p > 0.1. In conclusion, a new protein-repellent dental resin composite reduced oral biofilm growth and acid production to the low levels of non-esthetic amalgam and RMGI for the first time. The long-held conclusion that dental composites accumulate more biofilms than amalgam and glass ionomer is no longer true. The novel composite is promising to finally overcome the major biofilm-accumulation drawback of dental composites in order to reduce biofilm acids and secondary caries.
In vivo and in vitro evidence that Tc-99m-HYNIC-interleukin-2 is able to detect T lymphocytes in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques of the carotid artery
Glaudemans, Andor W. J. M.; Bonanno, Elena; Galli, Filippo; Zeebregts, Clark J.; de Vries, Erik; Koole, Michel; Luurtsema, Gert; Boersma, Hendrikus H.; Taurino, Maurizio; Slart, Riemer H. J. A.; Signore, Alberto
Purpose Recent advances in basic science have established that inflammation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Inflammatory cells are thought to be responsible for the transformation of a stable plaque into a vulnerable one. Lymphocytes constitute at least 20 % of infiltrat
Effects of intensive lipid-lowering therapy on coronary plaques composition in patients with acute myocardial infarction
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Auscher, Søren; Heinsen, Laurits; Nieman, Koen;
BACKGROUND: Statins have been shown to possess favourable effects on the cardiovascular system with stabilization of the vulnerable plaque. We sought to assess the effects of early aggressive statin treatment on plaque composition in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI), using serial...
High speed intravascular photoacoustic imaging of atherosclerotic arteries (Conference Presentation)
Piao, Zhonglie; Ma, Teng; Qu, Yueqiao; Li, Jiawen; Yu, Mingyue; He, Youmin; Shung, K. Kirk; Zhou, Qifa; Kim, Chang-Seok; Chen, Zhongping
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the industrialized nations. Accurate quantification of both the morphology and composition of lipid-rich vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque are essential for early detection and optimal treatment in clinics. In previous works, intravascular photoacoustic (IVPA) imaging for detection of lipid-rich plaque within coronary artery walls has been demonstrated in ex vivo, but the imaging speed is still limited. In order to increase the imaging speed, a high repetition rate laser is needed. In this work, we present a high speed integrated IVPA/US imaging system with a 500 Hz optical parametric oscillator laser at 1725 nm. A miniature catheter with 1.0 mm outer diameter was designed with a 200 μm multimode fiber and an ultrasound transducer with 45 MHz center frequency. The fiber was polished at 38 degree and enclosed in a glass capillary for total internal reflection. An optical/electrical rotary junction and pull-back mechanism was applied for rotating and linearly scanning the catheter to obtain three-dimensional imaging. Atherosclerotic rabbit abdominal aorta was imaged as two frame/second at 1725 nm. Furthermore, by wide tuning range of the laser wavelength from 1680 nm to 1770 nm, spectroscopic photoacoustic analysis of lipid-mimicking phantom and an human atherosclerotic artery was performed ex vivo. The results demonstrated that the developed IVPA/US imaging system is capable for high speed intravascular imaging for plaque detection.
Erythrocyte membrane, plasma and atherosclerotic plaque lipid pattern in coronary heart disease Perfil lipídico de membrana de eritrocito, plasma y placa ateromatosa en la enfermedad coronaria
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Natalia R. Lausada
Full Text Available The objective was to analyze the lipid composition of the atherosclerotic plaque (AP, plasma and erythrocyte membrane (EM in patients with advanced coronary heart disease (CHD. AP were obtained through endarterectomy in 18 patients. Ten normolipemic healthy subjects were selected to obtain the normal lipid pattern profile. Total lipids of AP and EM were determined by HPTLC, and the fatty acid profile from AP, EM and plasma using TLC-FID. The relative amount of the lipid species analyzed in AP was in line with the data in the literature [phospholipids: 23.5 mol% ± 3.5; total cholesterol 68.9 mol% ± 7.9; triglyceride 7.6 mol% ± 3.4]. Plasma and EM from CHD patients compared to controls, showed a decrease in polyunsaturated fatty acids and an increase in saturated fatty acids leading to a decrease in the unsaturation index (plasma: 1.67 ± 0.06 vs. 1.28 ± 0.03, PEl objetivo fue analizar la composición lipídica de las membranas de eritrocitos (ME, plasma y placas ateromatosas (PA en pacientes con enfermedad coronaria avanzada (ECV. Las PA fueron obtenidas de endarterectomías coronarias de 18 pacientes. Fueron seleccionados 10 sujetos sanos, normolipémicos, como grupo control. Los lípidos totales de PA y ME se determinaron utilizando HPTLC, y el perfil de ácidos grasos de las PA, ME y plasma mediante TLC-FID. La cantidad relativa de las especies lipídicas obtenidas de las PA coinciden con la literatura [fosfolípidos 23.5 mol% ± 3.5; colesterol total 68.9 mol% ± 7.9; triglicéridos 7.6 mol% ± 3.4]. En el plasma y en las ME de los pacientes con ECV se observó, comparando con los pacientes controles, una disminución de los ácidos grasos poli-no saturados acompañado de un aumento de los ácidos grasos saturados que provocó el descenso del índice de instauración (plasma: 1.67 ± 0.06 vs. 1.28 ± 0.03, P<0.05; ME: 2.28 ± 0.04 vs. 1.25 ± 0.010, P<0.05 y el incremento del cociente AG saturados/insaturados (plasma: 0.35 ± 0.02 vs. 0
On the potential of a new IVUS elasticity modulus imaging approach for detecting vulnerable atherosclerotic coronary plaques: in vitro vessel phantom study
Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)
Floc' h, Simon Le; Tracqui, Philippe; Ohayon, Jacques [Laboratory TIMC-DynaCell, UJF, CNRS UMR 5525, In3S, Grenoble (France); Cloutier, Guy [Laboratory of Biorheology and Medical Ultrasonics, Research Center, University of Montreal Hospital (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec (Canada); Finet, Gerard [Department of Hemodynamics and Interventional Cardiology, Hospices Civils de Lyon and Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, INSERM Unit 886, Lyon (France); Pettigrew, Roderic I, E-mail: email@example.com, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Laboratory of Integrative Cardiovascular Imaging Science, National Institute of Diabetes Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD (United States)
Peak cap stress amplitude is recognized as a good indicator of vulnerable plaque (VP) rupture. However, such stress evaluation strongly relies on a precise, but still lacking, knowledge of the mechanical properties exhibited by the plaque components. As a first response to this limitation, our group recently developed, in a previous theoretical study, an original approach, called iMOD (imaging modulography), which reconstructs elasticity maps (or modulograms) of atheroma plaques from the estimation of strain fields. In the present in vitro experimental study, conducted on polyvinyl alcohol cryogel arterial phantoms, we investigate the benefit of coupling the iMOD procedure with the acquisition of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) measurements for detection of VP. Our results show that the combined iMOD-IVUS strategy: (1) successfully detected and quantified soft inclusion contours with high positive predictive and sensitivity values of 89.7 {+-} 3.9% and 81.5 {+-} 8.8%, respectively, (2) estimated reasonably cap thicknesses larger than {approx}300 {mu}m, but underestimated thinner caps, and (3) quantified satisfactorily Young's modulus of hard medium (mean value of 109.7 {+-} 23.7 kPa instead of 145.4 {+-} 31.8 kPa), but overestimated the stiffness of soft inclusions (mean Young's moduli of 31.4 {+-} 9.7 kPa instead of 17.6 {+-} 3.4 kPa). All together, these results demonstrate a promising benefit of the new iMOD-IVUS clinical imaging method for in vivo VP detection.
Coronary Plaque Volume and Composition Assessed by Computed Tomography Angiography in Patients With Late-Onset Major Depression
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Devantier, Torben Albert; Nørgaard, Bjarne Linde; Ovrehus, Kristian Altern;
Background: Depression is a stronger predictor for the onset of or death from clinical coronary artery disease than traditional cardiovascular risk factors. The association between depression and coronary artery disease has previously been investigated in non-contrast enhanced computed tomography...... studies with conflicting results. The aim of this study was to further elucidate the depression-coronary artery disease relation by use of coronary computed tomography angiography. Methods: The calcified and noncalcified coronary plaque volumes were determined by semiautomatic volumetric quantification in...... 28 patients with late-onset major depression and 27 controls. The calcified plaque proportion, i.e., the calcified plaque volume divided by the total plaque volume, was used to assess the plaque composition. Results: There was no statistically significant difference in the total (p = 0.48), calcified...
Image Analysis for Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound Carotid Plaque Imaging
Z. Akkus (Zeynettin)
markdownabstract__Abstract__ Intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) has been presented as an important biomarker for progressive atherosclerotic disease and plaque vulnerability in several pathological studies. Therefore, quantification of IPN may allow early prediction of plaque at risk of rupture a
Relationship between the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaque of carotid artery and cardiovascular events in a senior cohort of Renqiu region,Hebei%河北省任丘市城乡老年居民颈动脉斑块特征与心脑血管事件的相关性研究
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
张广波; 于凯; 冀瑞俊; 王拥军; 高素颖; 颜应琳
Objective To investigate the potential relationship between the characteristics of atherosclerotic plaque of carotid artery and cardiovascular events in a senior cohort of Renqiu region,Hebei.Methods A random cluster sampling method was used to identify study population among 60 -70 years old residence in Renqiu region, Hebei.In the face of health questionnaire survey,neck vascular ultrasound examination,a total of 4 413 cases,inclu-ding 1 876 males and 2 537 females,the occurrence of carotid artery plaque and stenosis were detected by ultrasound. Carotid ultrasound was used to identify the characteristic of atherosclerotic plaque of bilateral carotid arteries,which were categorized as with and without plaque,single and multiple plaque,homogenous and heterogeneous plaque,and with and without stenosis.Cardiovascular events were defined as composite events of myocardial infarction,cardiovas-cular death,fatal or non -fatal stroke during the subsequent 2 years follow -up after initial evaluation.Multiple Logis-tic regression was performed to identify the association between the characteristics of bilateral carotid arteries and cardiovascular events.Results A total of 4 413 case enrolled in the study.With carotid ultrasound,2 438 cases (55.2%)were found to be with atherosclerotic plaque formation and 235(5.3%)were with carotid artery stenosis. The proportion of single,multiple,homogeneous and heterogeneous plaques were 1 024cases(23.2%),1 114cases (32.0%),1 106cases(25.1%)and 1 333cases(30.2%),respectively.Among them,the single plaque and new cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events occured in 83 cases(P =0.168),the multiple plaques and new cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events occured in 161 cases(P <0.001 ),the homogeneous patch and new cerebral vascular events occured in 98 cases(P =0.032),the non -homogeneous patch and new cerebral vascular events occured in 146 cases(P <0.001),the stenosis and cerebral vascular events occured in 42 cases(P <0.001).Taken the
Meta-analysis of Clinical Efficacy of Chinese Medic ine on Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque%中医药治疗颈动脉粥样硬化斑块临床疗效的 Meta分析
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
刘梨; 龚后武; 张建影; 常小荣
目的:系统评价中医药相关疗法对颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的临床疗效。方法:计算机检索The Co-chrane Library、PubMed、CBM、CNKI、WanFang Data及VIP,收集有关中医药治疗颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的随机对照试验( RCT),检索时限从建库至2014年8月,由两位研究者根据纳入及排除标准独立筛选文献、提取信息及评价纳入文献的方法学质量后,采用软件Rev Man 5.2.9进行Meta分析。结果:最终纳入10个RCT,共计1006例患者,干预措施治疗组为中医药相关疗法,对照组均为常规西药治疗。 Meta分析结果显示:与常规西药用药相比,中医药干预组能显著改善临床证候[OR=2.08,95%CI(1.50,9.55),P=0.004];颈动脉内中膜厚度影响方面,中医药较单纯西药治疗有效,其差异有统计学意义[MD=-0.06,95%CI(-0.10,-0.03),P=0.0006];对降低硬化斑块体积/面积,中医药干预组也较对照组明显( P<0.00001)。结论:在治疗颈动脉粥样硬化斑块方面,中医药干预组的疗效优于常规西药用药组。因纳入研究质量较低,数量所限,故上述结论仍需开展更多大样本高质量的RCT加以验证。%Objective:To evaluate the clinical efficacy of TCM therapy on the carotid atherosclerotic plaque.Methods:Search The Cochrane Library, PubMed, CBM, CNKI, WanFang Data and VIP and collect information of randomized controlled trial ( RCT) about Chinese medicine treatment for carotid atherosclerotic plaque, building a database to re-trieve the time to August 2014 .Two reviewers independently screened the literatures based on inclusion and exclusion criteria,and extracted information and evaluation methods including studies after methodology quality by use of software RevMan 5.2.9 Meta-analysis.Results:Including 10 RCT, totally 1006 cases of patients, the treatment group was trea-ted with interventions of Chinese
Effective of Vitamin E Combined with Vitamin C for the Intervention of Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques%维生素E联合维生素C对颈动脉粥样斑块的干预作用研究
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
王玉红; 王玉起; 李万福; 张雪芹
目的 探讨维生素E联合维生素C对颈动脉粥样斑块的干预作用,为防治动脉粥样硬化提供依据.方法 选择大兴黄村镇5个社区45岁以上经颈动脉超声检查明确有颈动脉硬化斑块及颈动脉内膜中层厚度(IMT)≥1.0 mm的患者196例为研究对象,在常规应用阿司匹林肠溶片及他汀类降脂药治疗的基础上按随机数字表法随机分为A组(加服维生素E 200 mg/晚)、B组(加服维生素E 200 mg/晚,维生素C 200 mg 早晚各1次)、C组(加服维生素C 200 mg 早晚各1次)及对照组(不加服维生素E和C).干预18个月后,对干预前后斑块大小变化进行分析.结果 干预前、后4组患者颈动脉粥样斑块组间比较,差异均无统计学意义(P>0.05).组内比较,对照组干预前后颈动脉粥样斑块间差异有统计学意义(P<0.05),A组、B组、C组干预前后斑块间差异均无统计学意义(P>0.05).结论加用维生素E和(或)维生素C对颈动脉粥样斑块没有明显缩小的作用.%Objective To explore the effectiveness of vitamin E combined with vitamin C in the intervention of carotid atherosclerotic plaques ( CAPs ). Methods A total of 196 45 - year - old - or - above patients with ultrasound - confirm CAPs ( and carotid intima media thickness≥ 1. 0 mm ) from 5 communities in Huangcun, Daxing District, Beijing, were enrolled. In addtion to routine aspirin and statin therapy, patients were further divided into four groups based on the administration of vitamins : group A ( supplemented with vitamin E, 200 mg/day ), group B ( supplenmented with vitamin E 200 mg, qn, and vitamin C 200 mg bid ), group C ( supplemented with vitamin C 200 mg bid ), and control group ( without any vitamin supplementation). After 18 months of treatment, the change in the size of CAPs were compared among these four groups. Results Compared with the control group, the size of CAPs in groups A, B, and C were not significantly different ( P >0. 05 ). The control
Carotid plaque, intima-media thickness, and incident aortic stenosis
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Martinsson, Andreas; Östling, Gerd; Persson, Margaretha;
OBJECTIVE: Aortic stenosis (AS) shares risk factors with atherosclerotic vascular disease. Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) and plaque may reflect the cumulative damage from exposure to different atherosclerotic risk factors. We examined the relationship of carotid IMT and plaque with inciden...
Association between serum vitamin D levels and subclinical coronary atherosclerosis and plaque burden/composition in young adult population
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Seckin Satilmis
Full Text Available Evidence suggests that low 25-OH vitamin D 25(OHD concentrations may increase the risk of several cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, peripheral vascular disease, diabetes mellitus, obesity, myocardial infarction, heart failure and cardiovascular mortality. Recent studies suggested a possible relationship between vitamin D deficiency and increased carotid intima-media wall thickness and vascular calcification. We hypothesized that low 25(OHD may be associated with coronary atherosclerosis and coronary plaque burden and composition, and investigated the relationship between serum vitamin D levels and coronary atherosclerosis, plaque burden or structure, in young adult patients by using dual-source 128x2 slice coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA. We included 98 patients with coronary atherosclerosis and 110, age and gender matched, subjects with normal findings on CCTA examinations. Patients with subclinical atherosclerosis had significantly higher serum total cholesterol, triglycerides, hs-CRP, uric acid, HbA1c and creatinine levels and lower serum 25(OHD levels in comparison with controls. There was no significant correlation between 25(OHD and plaque morphology. There was also a positive relationship between 25(OHD and plaque burden of coronary atherosclerosis. In multivariate analysis, coronary atherosclerosis was associated high hs-CRP (adjusted OR: 2.832, uric acid (adjusted OR: 3.671 and low 25(OHD (adjusted OR: 0.689. Low levels of 25(OHD were associated with coronary atherosclerosis and plaque burden, but there was no significant correlation between 25(OHD and plaque morphology.
Effect of an oxygenating agent on oral microorganisms in vitro and on dental plaque composition in healthy young adults
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Mercedes eFernandez y Mostajo
Full Text Available Oral bacteria live in symbiosis with the host. Therefore, when mouthwashes are indicated, selective inhibition of taxa contributing to disease is preferred instead of broad-spectrum antimicrobials. The potential selectivity of an oxygenating mouthwash, Ardox-X® (AX, has not been assessed. The aim of this study was to determine the antimicrobial potential of AX and the effects of a twice-daily oral rinse on dental plaque composition. Material and methods: In vitro, 16 oral bacterial strains were tested using agar diffusion susceptibility, minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentration tests. A pilot clinical study was performed with 25 healthy volunteers. Clinical assessments and microbiological sampling of supragingival plaque were performed at one month before the experiment (Pre-exp, at the start of the experiment (Baseline and after the one-week experimental period (Post-exp. During the experiment individuals used AX mouthwash twice daily in absence of other oral hygiene measures. The microbiological composition of plaque was assessed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Results: AX showed high inter-species variation in microbial growth inhibition. The tested Prevotella strains and Fusobacterium nucleatum showed the highest sensitivity, while streptococci and Lactobacillus acidophilus were most resistant to AX. Plaque scores at Pre-exp and Baseline visits did not differ significantly (p = 0.193, nor did the microbial composition of plaque during a period of 7-days non-brushing but twice daily rinsing. Plaque scores increased from 2.21 (0.31 at Baseline to 2.43 (0.39 Post-exp. A significant microbial shift in composition was observed: genus Streptococcus and Veillonella increased while Corynebacterium, Haemophilus, Leptotrichia, Cardiobacterium and Capnocytophaga decreased (p ≤ 0.001. Conclusion: AX has the potential for selective inhibition of oral bacteria. The shift in oral microbiome after one week of rinsing deserves
Effect of fluoridated toothpicks and dental flosses on enamel and dentine and on plaque composition in situ
Sarnr, D; Birkhed, D; Huysmans, MCDNJM; Ruben, JL; Fidler, [No Value; Lingstrom, P; Särner, B.; Lingström, P.
The aim was to evaluate the effect of two toothpicks and two dental flosses on demineralized enamel and dentine and on plaque composition, using an in situ model with simulated approximal spaces within dentures. Fifteen subjects with full dentures were recruited and 14 completed the study. It consis
A finite element study of balloon expandable stent for plaque and arterial wall vulnerability assessment
Karimi, Alireza; Navidbakhsh, Mahdi; Razaghi, Reza
The stresses induced within plaque tissues and arterial layers during stent expansion inside an atherosclerotic artery can be exceeded from the yield stresses of those tissues and, consequently, lead to plaque or arterial layer rupture. The distribution and magnitude of the stresses in each component involved in stenting might be clearly different for different plaque types and different arterial layers. In this study, a nonlinear finite element simulation was employed to investigate the effect of plaque composition (calcified, cellular, and hypocellular) on the stresses induced in the arterial layers (intima, media, and adventitia) during implantation of a balloon expandable coronary stent into a stenosed artery. The atherosclerotic artery was assumed to consist of a plaque and normal/healthy arterial tissues on its outer side. The results indicated a significant influence of plaque types on the maximum stresses induced within the plaque wall and arterial layers during stenting but not when computing maximum stress on the stent. The stress on the stiffest calcified plaque wall was in the fracture level (2.38 MPa), whereas cellular and hypocellular plaques remain stable owing to less stress on their walls. Regardless of plaque types, the highest von Mises stresses were observed on the stiffest intima layer, whereas the lowest stresses were seen to be located in less stiff media layer. The computed stresses on the intima layer were found to be high enough to initiate a rupture in this stiff layer. These findings suggest a higher risk of arterial vascular injury for the intima layer, while a lower risk of arterial injury for the media and adventitia layers.
Animal model of high cholesterol atherosclerotic erectile dysfunction and mechanism of atherosclerotic erectile dysfunction
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Guo-ShengYang; Zhao-DianChen; Hong-JuWang
Aim: To establish the animal model of atherosclerotic erectile dysfunction (ED) induced by high cholesterol diet and explore the mechanism of atherosclerotic ED. Methods: Thirty male rabbits were divided at random into two groups: the normal diet (ND)group (n=10) and the high cholesterol (HCH) group fed with 1.5% cholesterol diet (n=20). Serum total cholesterol, plaque areas of the ascending aorta,
Observation of curative effects of trigeminy therapy with probucol, antiplatelet agents and statins on atherosclerotic plaque of the carotid in cerebral infarction patients%抗氧化、抗血小板和降脂三联疗法治疗脑梗死患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的疗效观察
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
李绍发; 梁柯
Objective To observe the curative effects of trigeminy therapy with probucol, antiplatelet agents and statins (PAS) on atherosclerotic plaque of the carotid in cerebral infarction patients. Methods One hundred and eighty cerebral infarction patients with atherosclerotic plaque of the carotid were randomly devided into PAS trigeminy therapy group (PAS group, 60 cases), atorvastatin therapy group (atorvastatin group, 60 cases) and aspirin therapy group (control group, 60 cases). The blood total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), iow density lipoprotein ( LDL), oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) and high sensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP) of all the patients were determined before and after treatment. The carotid intima and media thickness (IMT) and the area of atherosclerotic plaque of the carotid were detected by color Doppler ultrasound. Results Compared with before treatment, the serum levels of TC, TG, LDL, ox-LDL and hs-CRP of patients in atorvastatin group were significantly decreased after treatment ( all P <0. 01 ); the IMT and the area of atherosclerotic plaque of the carotid were significantly decreased ( all P < 0. 05 ). After treatment, compared with atovastatin group, the serum levels of TC, TG, LDL, ox-LDL and hs-CRP in PAS group were significantly decreased ( P < 0.05 - 0. 01 ); the IMT and the area of atherosclerotic plaque of the carotid in PAS group were significantly decreased ( all P < O.05 ).Conclusion The PAS trigeminy therapy has notable curative effects on atheroscleretic plaque of the carotid in cerebral infarction patients, and there is no obvious adverse reaction.%目的:观察抗氧化、抗血小板和降脂(PAS)三联疗法治疗脑梗死患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的疗效.方法:180例确诊颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的脑梗死患者随机分成PAS三联疗法治疗组(PAS组,60例)、阿托伐他汀钙治疗组(他汀组,60例)和拜阿司匹林治疗组(对照组,60例).检测各患者治疗�
急性心肌梗死患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块易损性与血脂、血压相关性研究%Patients with acute myocardial infarction death carotid atherosclerotic plaques and blood fat and blood pressure correlation.
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
张海英; 王玉霞; 陈方焘(通讯作者)
目的:探讨急性心肌梗死患者血脂浓度、血压与颈动脉(IMT)粥样硬化斑块的关系.方法:应用彩色多普勒超声检查急性心肌梗死患者的颈动脉内膜—中膜厚度,斑块数和性状,同时检测血压、血脂.186例急性心肌梗死患者根据有无高血压,分为心肌梗死组 A 组47例、高血压并发心肌梗死组 B 组139例,设健康体验者作对照组 C 组70例.各种数据进行统计学分析.结果:B 组颈动脉粥样硬化斑块发生率最高(94.8%),且以软斑及混合斑为主,A 组次之(66.1%),C 组最低(22.9%).与无颈动脉粥样硬化斑块相比,有颈动脉粥样硬化斑块患者血清低密度脂蛋白胆固醇(LDL-C)水平明显升高.结论:颈动脉粥样硬化斑块是急性心肌梗死的重要危险因素,高血压及高 LDL-C 血症是颈动脉粥样硬化的危险因素.% Objective in patients with acute myocardial infarction blood lipid concentration, blood pressure and carotid artery (IMT) atherosclerotic plaque relationship. Methods Color doppler ultrasound of acute myocardial infarction with carotid endarterectomy, film thickness, plaques number and characters, and measure blood pressure, cholesterol. 186 cases of acute myocardial infarction patients have according to high blood pressure, divided into A group of myocardial infarction 47 cases were, pressure and myocardial infarction group B group 139 examples, set the experience for the control group C health group 70 examples. The statistical analysis of the data. Result The group B carotid atherosclerotic plaques was highest (94.8%), and with the soft spot and mixed spot is given priority to, A second group (66.1%), the lowest group C (22.9%). And no carotid atherosclerotic plaques in carotid atherosclerotic plaques patients serum low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL)-C) a significantly higher level. Conclusion Carotid atherosclerotic plaque with acute myocardial infarction is an important risk factors
高分辨磁共振成像对颈动脉粥样硬化斑块表面钙化与斑块稳定性关系研究%Correlated study on superficial calcification and stability of carotid atherosclerotic plaque using high resolution MRI
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
彭少华; 王成伟; 尹喜
Objective To evaluate the relationship of the shape,location of superficial calcification with stability of carotid atherosclerotic plaque using high resolution magnetic resonance imaging(MRI). Methods High resolution MRI was performed in the carotid artery of 34 patients with four sequences.including 3D-TOF,DIR T1WI,FSE T2WI and PDWI. The shape, location of superficial calcification with surface ulcer of carotid atherosclerotic plaque were evaluated. Results Out of 87 slices of superficial calcification, 59 slices plaques (67. 8%) showed surface ulcer. According to calcification type and location,64 slices were irregular (dotted/arcuated) calcification type,23 slices patch type,58 slices marginal calcification type and 29 slices central calcification type. Irregular superficial calcification was found more frequently with surface ulcer than patch calcification type. Marginal calcification type had higher possibility of surface ulcer than central calcification type. Conclusion Superficial calcification is an important factor for instability of atherosclerotic carotid plaque,which easily brings about surface ulcer on the carotid atherosclerotic plaque. The shape and location of superficial calcification are important factors of instability for atherosclerotic carotid plaque.%目的 通过高分辨磁共振成像(MRI)多序列扫描,分析颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的表面钙化的形状、位置与斑块稳定性的关系.方法 运用高分辨MRI多序列(3D-TOF、DIR T1WI、FSE T2WI、PDWI)对34例颈动脉斑块患者进行扫描,分析钙化类型和位置与斑块表面溃疡的关系.结果 87层表面钙化斑块,59层(67.8%)见斑块表面溃疡.按钙化类型和部位划分,64层为点状、弧形的不规则钙化,23层为大片状钙化;58层为边缘钙化,29层为中央钙化.不规则钙化组伴斑块表面溃疡的概率显著高于大片状钙化组;边缘钙化组较中央钙化组更易伴斑块表面溃疡.结论 表面钙化是斑块不稳�
The ability of high dose rosuvastatin to improve plaque composition in non-intervened coronary arteries: Rationale and design of the Integrated Biomarker and Imaging Study-3 (IBIS-3)
C. Simsek (Cihan); H.M. Garcia-Garcia (Hector); R.J.M. van Geuns (Robert Jan); M. Magro (Michael); C. Girasis (Chrysafios); N.M.D.A. van Mieghem (Nicolas); M.J. Lenzen (Mattie); S.P.M. de Boer (Sanneke); E.S. Regar (Eveline); W.J. van der Giessen (Wim); J. Raichlen (Joel); H.J. Duckers (Henricus); F. Zijlstra (Felix); T. van der Steen (Ton); H. Boersma (Eric); P.W.J.C. Serruys (Patrick)
textabstractAims: Acute coronary syndromes (ACS) are often caused by rupture of non-flow limiting "vulnerable" atherosclerotic plaque, characterised by a large necrotic core pool and a thin, inflamed fibrous cap that are unidentifiable with diagnostic coronary angiography. The implementation of nove
Gender differences of atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in elderly patients with stable angina pectoris%血管内超声评价老年冠心病患者冠状动脉钙化病变的性别差异
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
王小飞; 陈欣; 王佩显
Objective To evaluate the gender differences of atherosclerotic plaque characteristics in elderly patients with stabel angina pectoris using intravascular ultrasound(IVUS). Methods Sixty-one elderly patients with stable angina pectoris,age ≥65 years,male 33,female 28. One 50% -70% stenosis plaque was selected as target plaque in each patient. Coronary artery angiography and target plaque IVUS were performed to compare the vascular volume, lumen volume, plaque volume and calcification burden with arc area(AA). Results The vascular volume,lumen volume in female elderly patients were less than in male elderly patients(P<0. 05) ,there were no differences in plaque volume between male and female. AA in female patients was more than in male pa-tients(P<0. 05). Conclusion Female elderly patients with stable angina pectoris has smaller coronary artery and lumen at plaque segment as plaque burden was not different. Calcification burden in the plaque is more in female than in male patients.%目的 应用血管内超声评价不同性别老年冠心病患者冠状动脉粥样硬化斑块钙化情况.方法 选择年龄≥65岁稳定性心绞痛患者61例.所有患者均行冠状动脉造影,选取一处狭窄50%~70%的斑块进行血管内超声检查,测量血管、管腔、斑块体积及斑块钙化的弧面积.结果 女性患者血管体积和管腔体积较男性明显缩小,斑块钙化弧面积明显增加(P<0.05).结论 在斑块体积相同条件下,女性患者冠状动脉粥样硬化斑块部位血管体积和管腔体积小于男性,女性患者斑块钙化负荷明显高于男性.
Effect of Aerobic Exercise and Dietary Fat on the Formation of Atherosclerotic Plaque in ApoE-Deficient Mice%有氧运动和膳食脂肪对ApoE基因缺陷小鼠动脉粥样硬化斑块形成的影响
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
陈近利; 陈吉棣
为了探讨有氧运动和膳食因素在动脉粥样硬化斑块形成过程中的作用,研究了在跑台上进行的有氧运动和低脂膳食对ApoE基因缺陷小鼠动脉粥样硬化斑块形成过程的影响。结果表明:10周中等强度的有氧运动组和低脂膳食组ApoE基因缺陷小鼠主动脉窦处形成的动脉粥样硬化斑块面积均较对照组减少(P<0.05);有氧运动结合低脂膳食组ApoE基因缺陷小鼠的斑块面积分别低于单独的运动组和低脂膳食组(P<0.05)。研究提示有氧运动和低脂膳食均有利于并有效减轻动脉粥样硬化斑块的形成,有氧运动和低脂膳食两种因素结合的作用大于单独的有氧运动和低脂膳食的作用,二者在预防动脉粥样硬化斑块的形成上可能存在协同加强作用。%To approach the effects of aerobic exercise anddietary fat on the formation of atherosclerotic plaque, we have adopted the ApoE-gene knockout mice as the model to study the effects on an animal treadmill. The results show that the plaque area at the aortic sinuses of the exercised and low fat diet fed mice group were significantly reduced as comparing with the control group respectively. Mice of aerobic exercise and low fat diet combined treated group have the least lesion area of plaque as compared with the other groups. These results have indicated that either aerobic exercise or low fat diet is beneficial and effective to alleviate the formation of atherosclerotic lesions. However, aerobic combined with exercise can provide the greatest benefit in the alleviation of the formation of atherosclerotic plaque as compared with the single factor of either exercise or low fat diet.
A salmon protein hydrolysate exerts lipid-independent anti-atherosclerotic activity in ApoE-deficient mice.
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Cinzia Parolini
Full Text Available Fish consumption is considered health beneficial as it decreases cardiovascular disease (CVD-risk through effects on plasma lipids and inflammation. We investigated a salmon protein hydrolysate (SPH that is hypothesized to influence lipid metabolism and to have anti-atherosclerotic and anti-inflammatory properties. 24 female apolipoprotein (apo E(-/- mice were divided into two groups and fed a high-fat diet with or without 5% (w/w SPH for 12 weeks. The atherosclerotic plaque area in aortic sinus and arch, plasma lipid profile, fatty acid composition, hepatic enzyme activities and gene expression were determined. A significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque area in the aortic arch and aortic sinus was found in the 12 apoE(-/- mice fed 5% SPH for 12 weeks compared to the 12 casein-fed control mice. Immunohistochemical characterization of atherosclerotic lesions in aortic sinus displayed no differences in plaque composition between mice fed SPH compared to controls. However, reduced mRNA level of Icam1 in the aortic arch was found. The plasma content of arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6 and oleic acid (C18:1n-9 were increased and decreased, respectively. SPH-feeding decreased the plasma concentration of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and GM-CSF, whereas plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerols (TAG were unchanged, accompanied by unchanged mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation and acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT-activity. These data show that a 5% (w/w SPH diet reduces atherosclerosis in apoE(-/- mice and attenuate risk factors related to atherosclerotic disorders by acting both at vascular and systemic levels, and not directly related to changes in plasma lipids or fatty acids.
A salmon protein hydrolysate exerts lipid-independent anti-atherosclerotic activity in ApoE-deficient mice.
Parolini, Cinzia; Vik, Rita; Busnelli, Marco; Bjørndal, Bodil; Holm, Sverre; Brattelid, Trond; Manzini, Stefano; Ganzetti, Giulia S; Dellera, Federica; Halvorsen, Bente; Aukrust, Pål; Sirtori, Cesare R; Nordrehaug, Jan E; Skorve, Jon; Berge, Rolf K; Chiesa, Giulia
Fish consumption is considered health beneficial as it decreases cardiovascular disease (CVD)-risk through effects on plasma lipids and inflammation. We investigated a salmon protein hydrolysate (SPH) that is hypothesized to influence lipid metabolism and to have anti-atherosclerotic and anti-inflammatory properties. 24 female apolipoprotein (apo) E(-/-) mice were divided into two groups and fed a high-fat diet with or without 5% (w/w) SPH for 12 weeks. The atherosclerotic plaque area in aortic sinus and arch, plasma lipid profile, fatty acid composition, hepatic enzyme activities and gene expression were determined. A significantly reduced atherosclerotic plaque area in the aortic arch and aortic sinus was found in the 12 apoE(-/)- mice fed 5% SPH for 12 weeks compared to the 12 casein-fed control mice. Immunohistochemical characterization of atherosclerotic lesions in aortic sinus displayed no differences in plaque composition between mice fed SPH compared to controls. However, reduced mRNA level of Icam1 in the aortic arch was found. The plasma content of arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6) and oleic acid (C18:1n-9) were increased and decreased, respectively. SPH-feeding decreased the plasma concentration of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and GM-CSF, whereas plasma cholesterol and triacylglycerols (TAG) were unchanged, accompanied by unchanged mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation and acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT)-activity. These data show that a 5% (w/w) SPH diet reduces atherosclerosis in apoE(-/-) mice and attenuate risk factors related to atherosclerotic disorders by acting both at vascular and systemic levels, and not directly related to changes in plasma lipids or fatty acids.
In vivo and in vitro evidence that {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-interleukin-2 is able to detect T lymphocytes in vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques of the carotid artery
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Glaudemans, Andor W.J.M.; Vries, Erik F.J. de; Koole, Michel; Luurtsema, Gert; Slart, Riemer H.J.A. [University Medical Center Groningen (Netherlands). Dept. of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging; Bonanno, Elena [Univ. of Rome Tor Vergata (Italy). Dept. of Anatomic Pathology; Galli, Filippo [Sapienza Univ, Rome (Italy). Nuclear Medicine Unit; Zeebregts, Clark J. [University Medical Center Groningen (Netherlands). Surgery (Div. Vascular Surgery); Boersma, Hendrikus H. [University Medical Center Groningen (Netherlands). Dept. of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging; University Medical Center Groningen (Netherlands). Clinical and Hospital Pharmacy; Taurino, Maurizio [Sapienza Univ., Rome (Italy). Vascular Surgery Unit; Signore, Alberto [University Medical Center Groningen (Netherlands). Dept. of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging; Sapienza Univ, Rome (Italy). Nuclear Medicine Unit
Recent advances in basic science have established that inflammation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Inflammatory cells are thought to be responsible for the transformation of a stable plaque into a vulnerable one. Lymphocytes constitute at least 20 % of infiltrating cells in these vulnerable plaques. Therefore, the interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor, being overexpressed on activated T lymphocytes, may represent an attractive biomarker for plaque vulnerability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the specificity of radiolabelled IL-2 [{sup 99m}Tc-hydrazinonicotinamide (HYNIC)-IL-2] for imaging the lymphocytic infiltration in carotid plaques in vivo by planar and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT)/CT imaging and ex vivo by microSPECT and autoradiography. For the in vivo study, ten symptomatic patients with advanced plaques at ultrasound who were scheduled for carotid endarterectomy underwent {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-IL-2 scintigraphy. The images were analysed visually on planar and SPECT images and semi-quantitatively on SPECT images by calculating target to background (T/B) ratios. After endarterectomy, immunomorphological evaluation and immunophenotyping were performed on plaque slices. For the ex vivo studies, four additional patients were included and, after in vitro incubation of removed plaques with {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-IL-2, autoradiography was performed and microSPECT images were acquired. Visual analysis defined clear {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-IL-2 uptake in seven of the ten symptomatic plaques. SPECT/CT allowed visualization in eight of ten. A significant correlation was found between the number of CD25+ lymphocytes and the total number of CD25+ cells in the plaque and the T/B ratio with adjacent carotid artery as background (Pearson's r = 0.89, p = 0.003 and r = 0.87, p = 0.005, respectively). MicroSPECT imaging showed clear {sup 99m}Tc-HYNIC-IL-2 uptake within the plaque wall and not in the lipidic core. With autoradiography
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N. V. Pizova
Full Text Available Objective: to determine the incidence of atherosclerotic lesions in the carotid and vertebral arteries of young patients from Doppler ultrasound data and to compare the quantitatively assessed traditional risk factors of coronary heart disease (CHD with severe extracranial artery atherosclerotic lesion.Subjects and methods. Doppler ultrasound was carried out evaluating structural changes in the aortic arch branches in 1563 railway transport workers less than 45 years of age. A separate sample consisted of 68 young people with carotid atherosclerotic changes, in whom traditional risk factors for CHD were studied, so were in a control group of individuals without atherosclerotic changes (n = 38.Results. Among the examinees, carotid atherosclerotic lesion was detected in 112 (7.1 % cases, the increase in the rate of atherosclerotic plaques in patients aged 35–45 years being 9.08 %; that in the rate of local intima-media thickness in those aged 31–40 years being 5.1 %. Smoking (particularly that along with hypercholesterolemia and a family history of cardiovascular diseases, obesity (along with low activity, and emotional overstrain were defined as important risk factors in the young patients. Moreover, factor analysis has shown that smoking,hypertension, and early cardiovascular pathology in the next of kin makes the greatest contribution to the development of carotid atherosclerotic lesion.Conclusion. Among the patients less than 45 years of age, carotid and vertebral artery atherosclerotic changes were found in 112 (7.1 % cases, which were more pronounced in male patients. Smoking, particularly along with hypercholesterolemia and genetic predisposition to cardiovascular diseases, was a risk factor that had the highest impact on the degree of atherosclerotic lesion in the aortic arch branches of the young patients.
Atherosclerotic geometries exacerbate pathological thrombus formation poststenosis in a von Willebrand factor-dependent manner
Westein, Erik; Meer, van der Andries D.; Kuijpers, Marijke J.E.; Frimat, Jean-Philippe; Berg, van den Albert; Heemskerk, Johan W.M.
Rupture of a vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque causes thrombus formation and precipitates cardiovascular diseases. In addition to the thrombogenic content of a plaque, also the hemodynamic microenvironment plays a major role in thrombus formation. How the altered hemodynamics around a plaque promote
The relationship between the angiographic findings and the clinical features of carotid artery plaque.
Kim, D I; Lee, S J; Lee, B B; Kim, Y I; Chung, C S; Seo, D W; Lee, K H; Ko, Y H; Kim, D K; Do, Y S; Byun, H S
The purpose of this study was to investigate the histological characteristics of atheromatous carotid plaque, and to analyze the relationship between the angiographic findings and the clinical features. We retrospectively reviewed 55 cases of carotid endarterectomy for extracranial internal carotid artery stenosis, who were treated at our institute from January 1995 to December 1997. The histological examination included hematoxylin-eosin staining, Masson-trichrome staining, and immunostaining for antismooth muscle antibody and anti-CD68 antibody. The main compositions of the carotid plaque included synthetic type vascular smooth muscle cells and extracellular matrix. The histological findings showed ulceration in 49 (89.1%) cases, calcium deposits in 42 (76.4%) cases, and an inflammatory reaction in 44 (80.0%) cases. Neurological abnormalities were strongly associated with plaque ulceration (P = 0.045) and an inflammatory reaction (P = 0.013), whereas no correlation existed regarding calcium deposits (P = 0.173). The angiographic findings showed ulceration in 46 (83.6%) cases. Plaque ulceration in the angiography findings showed no statistically significant correlation with the histologic findings (P = 0.410) and preoperative neurologic abnormalities (P = 0.059). All of the atherosclerotic risk factors such as hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus, hyperlipidemia, and myocardial infarction had no statistically significant correlation with the histological features of the carotid plaque. In conclusion, the main compositions of carotid plaque were synthetic-type vascular smooth muscle cells and extracellular matrix. The histological ulceration and inflammatory reaction of the plaque showed a statistically significant correlation with the preoperative neurologic symptoms, whereas no correlation was seen in the calcium deposits. Angiographic ulceration showed no correlation with the histological findings or preoperative neurologic abnormalities. In addition, the
Quantitative assessment of changes in carotid plaques during cilostazol administration using three-dimensional ultrasonography and non-gated magnetic resonance plaque imaging
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Yamaguchi, Mao; Ohba, Hideki; Mori, Kiyofumi; Narumi, Shinsuke; Katsura, Noriyuki; Ohura, Kazumasa; Terayama, Yasuo [Iwate Medical University, Department of Neurology and Gerontology, Morioka (Japan); Sasaki, Makoto; Kudo, Kohsuke [Iwate Medical University, Division of Ultrahigh Field MRI, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Morioka (Japan)
Cilostazol, an antiplatelet agent, is reported to induce the regression of atherosclerotic changes. However, its effects on carotid plaques are unknown. Hence, we quantitatively investigated the changes that occur within carotid plaques during cilostazol administration using three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography (US) and non-gated magnetic resonance (MR) plaque imaging. We prospectively examined 16 consecutive patients with carotid stenosis. 3D-US and T1-weighted MR plaque imaging were performed at baseline and 6 months after initiating cilostazol therapy (200 mg/day). We measured the volume and grayscale median (GSM) of the plaques from 3D-US data. We also calculated the contrast ratio (CR) of the carotid plaque against the adjacent muscle and areas of the intraplaque components: fibrous tissue, lipid, and hemorrhage components. The plaque volume on US decreased significantly (median at baseline and 6 months, 0.23 and 0.21 cm{sup 3}, respectively; p = 0.03). In the group exhibiting a plaque volume reduction of more than 10%, GSM on US increased significantly (24.8 and 71.5, respectively; p = 0.04) and CR on MRI decreased significantly (1.13 and 1.04, respectively; p = 0.02). In this group, in addition, the percent area of the fibrous component on MRI increased significantly (68.6% and 79.4%, respectively; p = 0.02), while those of the lipid and hemorrhagic components decreased (24.9% and 20.5%, respectively; p = 0.12) (1.0% and 0.0%, respectively; p = 0.04). There were no substantial changes in intraplaque characteristics in either US or MRI in the other group. 3D-US and MR plaque imaging can quantitatively detect changes in the size and composition of carotid plaques during cilostazol therapy. (orig.)
Multi-feature-based plaque characterization in ex vivo MRI trained by registration to 3D histology
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Engelen, Arna van; Niessen, Wiro J.; Klein, Stefan;
We present a new method for automated characterization of atherosclerotic plaque composition in ex vivo MRI. It uses MRI intensities as well as four other types of features: smoothed, gradient magnitude and Laplacian images at several scales, and the distances to the lumen and outer vessel wall....... The ground truth for fibrous, necrotic and calcified tissue was provided by histology and micro-CT in 12 carotid plaque specimens. Semi-automatic registration of a 3D stack of histological slices and micro-CT images to MRI allowed for 3D rotations and inplane deformations of histology. By basing voxelwise...
胆固醇结晶激活动脉粥样硬化斑块巨噬细胞NLRP3炎症体的途径%The Ways of Cholesterol Crystals Activate the Atherosclerotic Plaque Macrophages NLRP3 Inflammasome
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
孟玲丽; 姚剑挺; 田野; 旦菊花
动脉粥样硬化既是胆固醇在血管壁聚集的疾病,也是发生在动脉壁的一种低强度慢性炎症形式.近年来有研究证实胆固醇结晶在动脉粥样硬化发生发展中具有重要作用.新的显微技术证实,胆固醇结晶在动脉粥样硬化斑块形成的早期即已出现,并与早期炎症有关.胆固醇结晶通过诱发局部炎症,促进大的脂质核心形成;刺破纤维帽,导致斑块破裂进而促进动脉粥样硬化斑块的进展.在影响斑块进程中,NLRP3炎症体的激活对此发挥了重要的作用.NLRP3炎症体是研究最多最明确的炎症体,其与非炎症性疾病的发生发展密切相关.以胆固醇结晶激活NLRP3炎症体的途径作为研究靶点,为动脉粥样硬化的诊断和治疗提供了新的思路和方法.该文就胆固醇结晶在动脉粥样硬化斑块中激活巨噬细胞NLRP3炎症体的两种途径做一综述.%Atherosclerosis is a disease of aggregation of cholesterol in the vessel wall,and also a low-intensity chronic inflammation form that occurs in the artery wall.In recent years,some researches have shown that cholesterol crystals play an important role on atherosclerosis development.New microscopy technology confirmed that cholesterol crystals had emerged in the early atherosclerotic plaque formation,which related with early inflammatory.Cholesterol crystals induce local inflammation,and promote the formation of large lipid core; pierce the fibrous cap,leading to plaque rupture thereby promoting the atherosclerotic plaque development.During the process of impacting plaques,NLRP3 inflammasome activation plays a critical part for it.NLRP3 inflammasome is the up most explicit inflammasome,closely related to the development of non-inflammatory diseases.Cholesterol crystals activating the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway is considered as one possible research target,providing new ideas and methods for the diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis.This article is aimed to
血浆同型半胱氨酸水平与缺血性脑血管病患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的相关性研究%Relationship of plasma homocysteine and carotid atherosclerotic plaque in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
李世敬; 金亚娟; 赵玉燕
目的:研究血浆同型半胱氨酸水平和缺血性脑血管病患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的相关性。方法:选择2014年10月~2015年11月在我院进行诊治的缺血性脑血管病患者500例,进行颈动脉彩色多普勒超声检查后,根据超声结果分为无斑块组(106例)、不稳定斑块组(261例)与稳定斑块组(133例),检测血浆同型半胱氨酸水平,并分析其与颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的相关性。结果:500例患者中发现无斑块106例(21.2%),颈动脉斑块394例(78.8%);稳定斑块组和不稳定斑块组的血浆同型半胱氨酸水平较无斑块组明显升高;不稳定斑块组与稳定斑块组相比,同型半胱氨酸水平均明显升高;易损斑块组血浆同型半胱氨酸浓度和高同型半胱氨酸血症发生率均明显高于非易损斑块组;Logistic 回归分析结果显示同型半胱氨酸的水平与颈动脉硬化斑块呈正性相关关系,OR 为1.23,95% CI 为1.021.22,差异有统计学意义。结论:颈动脉斑块的形成及其稳定性与同型半胱氨酸水平关系紧密,同型半胱氨酸水平升高是颈动脉斑块形成的独立危险因子。%Objective To investigate the relationship of plasma homocysteine and carotid atherosclerotic plaque in patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease. Methods Selected 5000 cases of patients with ischemic cerebrovascular disease who were treated in our hospital from September 2014 to November 2015. According to the results of carotid color Doppler ultra-sound examination, divided into no plaque group (106 cases), unstable plaque group (261 cases) and stable plaque group (133 cases). Detected the levels of plasma homocysteine and analyzed their correlation with carotid atherosclerosis plaque. Results Of the 500 patients, 106 patients (21.2%) had no plaque, and 394 patients (78.8%) had carotid plaques no plaque was found in 106 cases(21.2%), 394 cases (78.8%) of carotid
High-risk plaque features can be detected in non-stenotic carotid plaques of patients with ischaemic stroke classified as cryptogenic using combined {sup 18}F-FDG PET/MR imaging
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Hyafil, Fabien [Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich (Germany); Bichat University Hospital, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Paris (France); Schindler, Andreas; Obenhuber, Tilman; Saam, Tobias [Ludwig Maximilians University Hospital Munich, Institute for Clinical Radiology, Munich (Germany); Sepp, Dominik; Hoehn, Sabine; Poppert, Holger [Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich (Germany); Bayer-Karpinska, Anna [Ludwig Maximilians University Hospital Munich, Institute for Stroke and Dementia Research, Munich (Germany); Boeckh-Behrens, Tobias [Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Department of Neuroradiology, Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Munich (Germany); Hacker, Marcus [Medical University of Vienna, Division of Nuclear Medicine, Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-guided Therapy, Vienna (Austria); Nekolla, Stephan G. [Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich (Germany); Partner Site Munich Heart Alliance, German Centre for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Munich (Germany); Rominger, Axel [Ludwig Maximilians University Hospital Munich, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Munich (Germany); Dichgans, Martin [Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Department of Neurology, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich (Germany); Munich Cluster of Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich (Germany); Schwaiger, Markus [Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Munich (Germany)
The aim of this study was to investigate in 18 patients with ischaemic stroke classified as cryptogenic and presenting non-stenotic carotid atherosclerotic plaques the morphological and biological aspects of these plaques with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and {sup 18}F-fluoro-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography ({sup 18}F-FDG PET) imaging. Carotid arteries were imaged 150 min after injection of {sup 18}F-FDG with a combined PET/MRI system. American Heart Association (AHA) lesion type and plaque composition were determined on consecutive MRI axial sections (n = 460) in both carotid arteries. {sup 18}F-FDG uptake in carotid arteries was quantified using tissue to background ratio (TBR) on corresponding PET sections. The prevalence of complicated atherosclerotic plaques (AHA lesion type VI) detected with high-resolution MRI was significantly higher in the carotid artery ipsilateral to the ischaemic stroke as compared to the contralateral side (39 vs 0 %; p = 0.001). For all other AHA lesion types, no significant differences were found between ipsilateral and contralateral sides. In addition, atherosclerotic plaques classified as high-risk lesions with MRI (AHA lesion type VI) were associated with higher {sup 18}F-FDG uptake in comparison with other AHA lesions (TBR = 3.43 ± 1.13 vs 2.41 ± 0.84, respectively; p < 0.001). Furthermore, patients presenting at least one complicated lesion (AHA lesion type VI) with MRI showed significantly higher {sup 18}F-FDG uptake in both carotid arteries (ipsilateral and contralateral to the stroke) in comparison with carotid arteries of patients showing no complicated lesion with MRI (mean TBR = 3.18 ± 1.26 and 2.80 ± 0.94 vs 2.19 ± 0.57, respectively; p < 0.05) in favour of a diffuse inflammatory process along both carotid arteries associated with complicated plaques. Morphological and biological features of high-risk plaques can be detected with {sup 18}F-FDG PET/MRI in non-stenotic atherosclerotic plaques ipsilateral
孤立性颈动脉粥样硬化斑块内膜长轴切面力学状态的初步超声研究%Preliminary longitudinal mechanical pattern study of the isolated carotid atherosclerotic plaque intima using velocity vector imaging
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
岳文胜; 尹立雪; 王珊; 邓燕; 左明良; 李爽; 余洋; 罗安果
Objective To evaluate the mechanical homogeneity pattern of isolated carotid atherosclerotic plaque intima on longitudinal axis view using ultrasonic velocity vector imaging.Methods Fourty six patients with 48 isolated plaques were undergone the high frequency ultrasound scanning,the real-time two-dimensional longitudinal-axis gray scale view at the maximal thickness of the plaque was obtained in three complete cardiac cycles.A dedicated velocity vector imaging(ⅤⅤⅠ)workstation was used for the off-line dynamic two-dimensional gray-scale image analysis and mechanics parameter(i.e.,the peak strain and the absolute difference of the peak strain)assessment at the sites of the upper,middle and down stream separately.The length and direction distribution of the velocity vectors at the carotid atherosclerotic plaque intima were observed.Wilcoxon test was utilized for the comparison of the peak strain and the absolute difference of the peak strain between two sites.Results The chaos phenomenon of velocity vector distribution at the sites of plaque intima occurred significantly differed from those uniform velocity vectors at the reference sites.According to the two groups of the higher strain value side and the lower strain value side on the upper stream and the down stream of the plaque intima,the peak strain at the higher strain value side was significantly higher than the lower strain value side(P=0.000).There was a significantly difference between the absolute difference of peak strain from the higher strain value side to the middle stream point of the plaque intima and the absolute difference of peak strain from the lower strain value side to the higher strain value side of the plaque intima(P<0.017).Conclusions The length and direction distribution of velocity vectors of the isolated carotid atherosclerotic plaque intima on longitudinal axis view are uneven,the mechanical heterogeneity pattern exists at the plaque intima and could be visualized and
Comparison of blood leukocyte telomere DNA content and vascular telomere DNA content in human carotid atherosclerotic plaques%人颈动脉粥样硬化斑块组织及外周血白细胞相对端粒长度的检测及相关性分析
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
陈宇; 刘继斌; 刘鹏; 叶志东; 张伟丽; 惠汝太
目的 研究人颈动脉粥样硬化斑块组织与外周血白细胞的DNA相对端粒长度是否有相关性,外周血白细胞能否反映血管组织的相对端粒长度,从而为外周血白细胞端粒长度与动脉粥样硬化的相关性研究提供依据.方法 分别取12例颈动脉内膜剥脱术患者的颈动脉内膜斑块组织及外周血,提取DNA,采用实时荧光定量PCR (qRT-PCR)的方法检测相对端粒长度,并进行相关性分析.结果 人颈动脉斑块的平均相对端粒长度(Relative telomere length,RTL)为0.56±0.12(平均值±标准差),显著高于外周血白细胞的平均相对端粒长度(0.45±0.13)(P=0.038).多元线性回归方法校正年龄、性别、体重指数、血脂水平、高血压、糖尿病等心血管病危险因素,表明来自同一患者颈动脉斑块组织和外周血白细胞的RTL具有显著的相关性(标化相关系数β=0.87; P=0.0001);外周血白细胞RTL与年龄呈负相关(标化相关系数β=-0.704,P<0.001);颈动脉斑块样本RTL与年龄呈负相关(标化相关系数β=-0.528,P=0.002).结论 人颈动脉斑块组织与外周血白细胞的相对端粒长度具有相关性,外周血白细胞是替代血管组织研究端粒长度与心血管疾病关系的一个重要指标.%Objective To investigate the relationship of relative telomere lengths (RTL) of vascular wall and circulating leukocytes in atherosclerosis patients with carotid endarterectomy. Methods Carotid atherosclerotic plaques and paired blood leukocytes were obtained from 12 patients with atherosclerosis, and relative telomere lengths were measured by real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). The correlation between the RTLs of two tissues was assessed. Results The average RTL of carotid atherosclerotic plaques (mean ± SD, 0.56 ±0.12) was significantly higher than that of blood leukocytes (0.45 ± 0.13) (P = 0.038). Multivariable linear regression analysis showed a positive association between the telomere lengths
Effects of insulin sensitizers on plaque vulnerability associated with elevated lipid content in atheroma in ApoE-knockout mice.
Cefalu, W T; Wang, Z Q; Schneider, D J; Absher, P M; Baldor, L C; Taatjes, D J; Sobel, B E
Acute coronary syndromes are generally precipitated by rupture of lipid-laden, relatively acellular, vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques with thin fibrous caps. We investigated whether a high-fat diet alters insulin sensitivity and whether insulin sensitizers (troglitazone and rosiglitazone) alter the composition of otherwise lipidladen atherosclerotic plaques in mice deficient in apolipoprotein E (ApoE). ApoE-knockout mice were fed a high-fat (n=30) or standard chow (n=10) diet for two weeks. Thereafter, those fed the high-fat diet were treated with troglitazone (n=10), rosiglitazone (n=10) or no drug (n=10) for 16 weeks beginning at 8 weeks of age. Carbohydrate metabolism was assessed with intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests and insulin tolerance tests. Plaque composition was characterised with confocal laser scanning microscopy. The high-fat diet induced insulin resistance in the absence of weight gain. Compared with control animals on the high-fat diet, animals given troglitazone (400 mg/kg/day) or rosiglitazone (4 mg/kg/day) had significantly less area under the curve (AUC) for insulin ( p<0.05) and glucose disposal ( p<0.05). Despite significant increases in insulin sensitivity with drug treatment, no change in HDL-cholesterol and triglyceride levels, nor reduction in atheroma size or lipid content was noted. Thus, improvement in insulin resistance induced by a high-fat diet in this animal model of vasculopathy did not alter plaque composition.
The association of lesion eccentricity with plaque morphology and components in the superficial femoral artery: a high-spatial-resolution, multi-contrast weighted CMR study
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Zhao Xihai
Full Text Available Abstract Background Atherosclerotic plaque morphology and components are predictors of subsequent cardiovascular events. However, associations of plaque eccentricity with plaque morphology and plaque composition are unclear. This study investigated associations of plaque eccentricity with plaque components and morphology in the proximal superficial femoral artery using cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR. Methods Twenty-eight subjects with an ankle-brachial index less than 1.00 were examined with 1.5T high-spatial-resolution, multi-contrast weighted CMR. One hundred and eighty diseased locations of the proximal superficial femoral artery (about 40 mm were analyzed. The eccentric lesion was defined as [(Maximum wall thickness- Minimum wall thickness/Maximum wall thickness] ≥ 0.5. The arterial morphology and plaque components were measured using semi-automatic image analysis software. Results One hundred and fifteen locations were identified as eccentric lesions and sixty-five as concentric lesions. The eccentric lesions had larger wall but similar lumen areas, larger mean and maximum wall thicknesses, and more calcification and lipid rich necrotic core, compared to concentric lesions. For lesions with the same lumen area, the degree of eccentricity was associated with an increased wall area. Eccentricity (dichotomous as eccentric or concentric was independently correlated with the prevalence of calcification (odds ratio 3.78, 95% CI 1.47-9.70 after adjustment for atherosclerotic risk factors and wall area. Conclusions Plaque eccentricity is associated with preserved lumen size and advanced plaque features such as larger plaque burden, more lipid content, and increased calcification in the superficial femoral artery.
Plaque rupture in humans and mice
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Schwartz, Stephen M; Galis, Zorina S; Rosenfeld, Michael E;
Despite the many studies of murine atherosclerosis, we do not yet know the relevance of the natural history of this model to the final events precipitated by plaque disruption of human atherosclerotic lesions. The literature has become particularly confused because of the common use of terms such...
High-normal blood pressure and carotid atherosclerotic plaque formation: The results from stroke population screening in Dongying, Shandong province%正常高值血压与颈动脉粥样硬化斑块形成:来自山东东营卒中筛查人群的结果
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
吴德云; 刘迎春; 高宗恩; 李楠; 杨志杰
目的 探讨不同血压水平与颈动脉粥样斑块形成的相关性.方法 从2012年9月至2013年1月期间参加东营市卒中筛查的人群中,选取符合理想血压[收缩压(systolic blood pressure,SBP)< 120 mm Hg且舒张压(diastolic blood pressure,DBP)< 80 mm Hg,1 mm Hg =0.133 kPa]、正常血压[SBP 120~129 mm Hg和(或)DBP 80 ~84 mm Hg]和正常高值血压[SBP 130~139 mm Hg和(或)DBP 85~89 mm Hg]诊断标准的人群为研究对象,进行间卷调查、体格检查、血生化检查及颈部血管超声检查.比较正常血压组、正常高值血压组与理想血压组之间颈动脉斑块检出率,进行多变量logistic回归分析确定颈动脉斑块的独立危险因素.结果 正常血压组和正常高值血压组男性和糖尿病的构成比以及体质指数(body mass index,BMI)和空腹血糖(fasting blood glucose,FBG)水平均显著性高于理想血压组(P均<0.05).理想血压组、正常血压组和正常高值血压组颈动脉斑块检出率分别为12.41%、38.14%和49.45%.颈动脉斑块形成组男性构成比以及年龄、SBP、FBG和高半胱氨酸(homocysteine,Hcy)水平均显著性高于无颈动脉斑块形成组(P均<0.05).多变量logistic回归分析显示,年龄、SBP、FBG和Hcy为颈动脉粥样斑块形成的独立危险因素,女性为独立保护因素.在校正性别、年龄、FBG和Hcy等危险因素后,正常高值血压组斑块形成风险显著性高于理想血压组(优势比1.354,95%可信区间1.028~1.783;P=0.031),而正常血压组与理想血压组无显著性差异.结论 正常高值血压与颈动脉斑块形成风险增高显著相关,是颈动脉斑块形成的独立危险因素.%Objective To investigate the correlation between different blood pressure levels and carotid atherosclerotic plaque formation.Methods The population participated in stroke screening were selected from September 2012 to January 2013 in Dongying,Shandong province.The subjects met the
A Proteomic Focus on the Alterations Occurring at the Human Atherosclerotic Coronary Intima*
de la Cuesta, Fernando; Alvarez-Llamas, Gloria; Maroto, Aroa S.; Donado, Alicia; Zubiri, Irene; Posada, Maria; Padial, Luis R.; Pinto, Angel G.; Barderas, Maria G.; Vivanco, Fernando
Coronary atherosclerosis still represents the major cause of mortality in western societies. Initiation of atherosclerosis occurs within the intima, where major histological and molecular changes are produced during pathogenesis. So far, proteomic analysis of the atherome plaque has been mainly tackled by the analysis of the entire tissue, which may be a challenging approach because of the great complexity of this sample in terms of layers and cell type composition. Based on this, we aimed to study the intimal proteome from the human atherosclerotic coronary artery. For this purpose, we analyzed the intimal layer from human atherosclerotic coronaries, which were isolated by laser microdissection, and compared with those from preatherosclerotic coronary and radial arteries, using a two-dimensional Differential-In-Gel-Electrophoresis (DIGE) approach. Results have pointed out 13 proteins to be altered (seven up-regulated and six down-regulated), which are implicated in the migrative capacity of vascular smooth muscle cells, extracellular matrix composition, coagulation, apoptosis, heat shock response, and intraplaque hemorrhage deposition. Among these, three proteins (annexin 4, myosin regulatory light 2, smooth muscle isoform, and ferritin light chain) constitute novel atherosclerotic coronary intima proteins, because they were not previously identified at this human coronary layer. For this reason, these novel proteins were validated by immunohistochemistry, together with hemoglobin and vimentin, in an independent cohort of arteries. PMID:21248247
A proteomic focus on the alterations occurring at the human atherosclerotic coronary intima.
de la Cuesta, Fernando; Alvarez-Llamas, Gloria; Maroto, Aroa S; Donado, Alicia; Zubiri, Irene; Posada, Maria; Padial, Luis R; Pinto, Angel G; Barderas, Maria G; Vivanco, Fernando
Coronary atherosclerosis still represents the major cause of mortality in western societies. Initiation of atherosclerosis occurs within the intima, where major histological and molecular changes are produced during pathogenesis. So far, proteomic analysis of the atherome plaque has been mainly tackled by the analysis of the entire tissue, which may be a challenging approach because of the great complexity of this sample in terms of layers and cell type composition. Based on this, we aimed to study the intimal proteome from the human atherosclerotic coronary artery. For this purpose, we analyzed the intimal layer from human atherosclerotic coronaries, which were isolated by laser microdissection, and compared with those from preatherosclerotic coronary and radial arteries, using a two-dimensional Differential-In-Gel-Electrophoresis (DIGE) approach. Results have pointed out 13 proteins to be altered (seven up-regulated and six down-regulated), which are implicated in the migrative capacity of vascular smooth muscle cells, extracellular matrix composition, coagulation, apoptosis, heat shock response, and intraplaque hemorrhage deposition. Among these, three proteins (annexin 4, myosin regulatory light 2, smooth muscle isoform, and ferritin light chain) constitute novel atherosclerotic coronary intima proteins, because they were not previously identified at this human coronary layer. For this reason, these novel proteins were validated by immunohistochemistry, together with hemoglobin and vimentin, in an independent cohort of arteries. PMID:21248247
Color doppler ultrasonography and multislice computer tomography angiography in carotid plaque detection and characterization
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Vučaj-Ćirilović Viktorija
Full Text Available Beckground/Aim. Cerebrovascular diseases are the third leading cause of mortality in the world, following malignant and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, their timely and precise diagnostics is of great importance. The aim of this study was to compare duplex scan Color Doppler ultrasonography (CDU with multislice computed tomography angiography (MSCTA in detection of morphological and functional disorders at extracranial level of carotid arteries. Methods. The study included 75 patients with 150 carotid arteries examined in the period from January 2008 to April 2009. The patients were firstly examined by CDU, then MSCTA, followed by the surgery of extracranial segment of carotid arteries. In 10 patients, the obtained material was referred for histopathological (HP examination. We used both CDU and MSCT in the analysis of: plaque surface, plaque structure, degree of stenosis, and the presence of intraplaque hemorrhage. Results. The results obtained by CDU and MSCTA were first compared between themselves, and then to intraoperative findings. Retrospective analysis showed that MSCTA is more sensitive than CDU in assessment of plaque surface (for smooth plaques CDU 89% : MSCTA 97%; for plaques with irregular surface CDU 75% : MSCTA 87%; for ulcerations CDU 54% : MSCTA 87%. Regarding determination of plaque structure (mixed plaque CDU 66% : MSCTA 70%; correlation with HP findings CDU 94% : MSCTA 96% and localization (CDU 63% : MSCTA 65%, and in terms of sensitivity and specificity, both methods showed almost the same results. Also, there is no statistical difference between these two methods for the degree of stenosis (CDU 96% : MSCTA 98%. Conclusion. Atherosclerotic disease of extracranial part of carotid arteries primarily affects population of middle-aged and elderly, showing more associated risk factors. Sensitivity and specificity of CDU and MSCTA regarding plaque composition, the degree of stenosis and plaque localization are almost the same
Spiral computed tomographic imaging related to computerized ultrasonographic images of carotid plaque morphology and histology
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Grønholdt, Marie-Louise; Wagner, A; Wiebe, B M;
Echolucency of carotid atherosclerotic plaques, as evaluated by computerized B-mode ultrasonographic images, has been associated with an increased incidence of brain infarcts on cerebral computed tomographic scans. We tested the hypotheses that characterization of carotid plaques on spiral computed...... tomographic images correlates with that on computerized B-mode ultrasonographic images and that spiral computed tomographic imaging predicts the histomorphometric plaque content....
Effect of various rinsing protocols after use of amine fluoride/stannous fluoride toothpaste on the bacterial composition of dental plaque
C. van Loveren; V.A.M. Gerardu; C.H. Sissons; M. van Bekkum; J.M. ten Cate
This clinical study evaluated the effect of different oral hygiene protocols on the bacterial composition of dental plaque. After a 2-week period of using fluoride-free toothpaste, 30 participants followed three 1-week experimental protocols, each followed by 2-week fluoride-free washout periods in
Relevance analysis of health behaviors and influencing factors for detection rate of carotid atherosclerotic plaque%影响颈动脉斑块检出率的相关因素分析
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
蒋树中; 刘茹; 韩冰
Objective To explore the relevance of health behaviors and influencing factors for detection rate of carotid plaques to prevent the formation of carotid plaque.Methods A total of 2 628 healthy subjects aged over 40 years were selected randomly from Department of Cardiology at our hospital from 2009-2010.A questionnaire survey was conducted on age , education level, marriage, occupation, income, diet, living habits and lifestyle factors.Logistic regression analysis was made for the influencing factors of internal carotid artery plaque.Results Single factor analysis showed that gender , age, smoking rate, fasting blood glucose , blood pressure , carotid artery intima-media thickness ( intima-media thickness , IMT), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and low density lipoprotein cholesterol ( LDL-C ) had significant effects on plaque formation.Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that gender , age, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C and number of health behaviors were the major influencing factors for the formation of carotid plaque.Compared with the 5 ideal cardiovascular health behaviors/factors and occurrence of carotid plaques were 0.65, 0.45, 0.39 and 0.29 respectively.Conclusions The formation of carotid plaque is affected by many factors.The number of ideal cardiovascular health behaviors is negatively correlated with plaque formation and it can prevent the occurrence of carotid plaque .%目的:探讨影响颈内动脉斑块检出率的相关健康行为和相关因素。方法选取2009-2010年间在江苏省徐州市心血管病研究所心内科进行健康体检的人员作为研究对象。采用分层随机抽样的方法从中抽取40岁以上2628例纳入研究。制定调查问卷,并对年龄、文化程度、婚姻、职业、经济收入、饮食习惯、生活习惯、生活行为因素进行调查。应用Logistic回归分析对影响颈内动脉斑块的因素进行统计分析。结果单因素�
Quantitative evaluation of high intensity signal on MIP images of carotid atherosclerotic plaques from routine TOF-MRA reveals elevated volumes of intraplaque hemorrhage and lipid rich necrotic core
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Yamada Kiyofumi
Full Text Available Abstract Background Carotid intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH and lipid rich necrotic core (LRNC have been associated with accelerated plaque growth, luminal narrowing, future surface disruption and development of symptomatic events. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quantitative relationships between high intensity signals (HIS in the plaque on TOF-MRA and IPH or LRNC volumes as measured by multicontrast weighted CMR. Methods Seventy six patients with a suspected carotid artery stenosis or carotid plaque by ultrasonography underwent multicontrast carotid CMR. HIS presence and volume were measured from TOF-MRA MIP images while IPH and LRNC volumes were separately measured from multicontrast CMR. Results For detecting IPH, HIS on MIP images overall had high specificity (100.0%, 95% CI: 93.0 – 100.0% but relatively low sensitivity (32%, 95% CI: 20.8 – 47.9%. However, the sensitivity had a significant increasing relationship with underlying IPH volume (p = 0.033 and degree of stenosis (p = 0.022. Mean IPH volume was 2.7 times larger in those with presence of HIS than in those without (142.8 ± 97.7 mm3 vs. 53.4 ± 56.3 mm3, p = 0.014. Similarly, mean LRNC volume was 3.4 times larger in those with HIS present (379.8 ± 203.4 mm3 vs. 111.3 ± 122.7 mm3, p = 0.001. There was a strong correlation between the volume of the HIS region and the IPH volume measured from multicontrast CMR (r = 0.96, p Conclusion MIP images are easily reformatted from three minute, routine, clinical TOF sequences. High intensity signals in carotid plaque on TOF-MRA MIP images are associated with increased intraplaque hemorrhage and lipid-rich necrotic core volumes. The technique is most sensitive in patients with moderate to severe stenosis.
Effect of atorvastatin on expression of macrophage and smooth muscle actin in carotid atherosclerotic plaques in rabbits%阿托伐他汀对家兔颈动脉粥样硬化斑块内巨噬细胞浸润和平滑肌肌动蛋白表达的影响
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
于熙滢; 曹海利; 刘雅君; 刘洋; 李晓光; 班翔; 魏林
目的:研究阿托伐他汀对家兔颈动脉粥样硬化(AS)斑块内巨噬细胞及平滑肌肌动蛋白(SMA)表达的影响,并探讨他汀类药物稳定AS斑块的机制.方法:24只健康雄性新西兰大耳白兔随机分为对照组(n=8)和高胆固醇血症组(n=16).16只高胆固血症组的家兔喂饲高胆固醇饲料2周后,进行颈总动脉内膜球囊拉伤术,术后再随机等分为AS模型组和阿托伐他汀组[给予阿托伐他汀5 mg/(kg·d)],两组均继续喂饲高胆固醇饲料10周.喂养第12周时处死动物,取颈总动脉进行石蜡切片,用酶标法检测不同时间点血清脂质和脂蛋白;应用光学显微镜观察AS的进程;采用免疫组化染色法检测巨噬细胞浸润和SMA在斑块处的表达.结果:阿托伐他汀组的血清总胆固醇(TC)及低密度脂蛋白-胆固醇(LDL-C)的浓度明显低于AS模型组(P<0.01),颈总动脉内膜的厚度较AS模型组显著变薄[(0.49±0.072)vs.(0.66±0.08)mm,P<0.05].免疫组化染色法检测结果示,阿托伐他汀组血管壁中巨噬细胞的数量显著较模型组减少(P<0.05)而SMA的表达较AS模型组显著增多(P<0.01).结论:阿托伐他汀可能通过抑制AS斑块内巨噬细胞的浸润并增强SMA的表达,而发挥稳定斑块的作用.%AIM: To observe inflammatory macrophages and smooth muscle actin in carotid atherosclerotic plaques in rabbits and the effects of atorvastatin on them and to explore whether statins could stabilize carotid plaques and its possible mechanism.METHODS: Twenty-four rabbits were randomly divided into three groups: control group (n = 8 ) and hypercholesterolemia group (n = 16).The hypercholesterolemia group was fed a hypercholesterol diet for 2 weeks and then catheter-induced arterial wall injury was made.Rabbits in hypercholesterolemia and aortic injury group were randomized into model group (n = 8 ) and atorvastatin group 5 mg/( kg· day) for 10 weeks (n = 8 ).Carotid arteries were isolated and paraffinembedded
超声评价颈动脉粥样硬化斑块与2型糖尿病患者血糖波动的关系%Ultrasonic evaluation on the relationship between carotid atherosclerotic plaques and blood glucose fluctua-tion in patients with type 2 diabetes
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Objective To study the relationship between the carotid atherosclerotic plaque and blood glucose fluctuations in patients with type 2 diabetes(T2DM).Methods According to the carotid artery color doppler ultra-sonography, 198 patients with T2DM were divided into no carotid sclerosis group (group A, n=53), the stable carot-id atherosclerosis plaque group(group B, n=68), and unstable carotid atherosclerosis plaque group (group C, n=77) .Dynamic glucose monitoring system ( CGMS) was used to continuously monitor 72 h blood sugar , calculate the mean blood glucose(MBG), within-day mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE), and recorded the age, blood pressure, glycated hemoglobin(HbA1c), serum total cholesterol(TC), triglycerides(TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol(HDL-C), and gender.Results Among the three groups, there were statistically significant differences in systolic pressure , diastolic blood pressure , FPG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C and HbA1c, and MBG, MAGE gradually increased with the degree of carotid artery atherosclerosis (all P<0.05). Conclusion In patients with T2DM, the blood sugar fluctuation increases the risk of carotid atherosclerotic plaques , therefore the dynamic blood sugar monitoring should be paid attention to .%目的:探讨2型糖尿病患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块与血糖波动的关系。方法选择2型糖尿病患者198例,根据颈动脉彩色多普勒超声显像分为无颈动脉硬化组53例( A组)、颈动脉粥样硬化稳定斑块组68例(B组)、颈动脉粥样硬化不稳定斑块组77例(C组)。三组均采用动态血糖监测系统(CGMS)连续监测72 h血糖,计算平均血糖水平( MBG )、日内平均血糖波动幅度( MAGE ),并记录血压、糖化血红蛋白(HbA1c)、血清总胆固醇(TC)、甘油三酯(TG)、低密度脂蛋白胆固醇(LDL-C)、高密度脂蛋白胆固醇(HDL-C)等指标的监测结果。结果三�
Fabrication and control of CT number through polymeric composites based on coronary plaque CT phantom applications.
Hoy, Carlton F O; Naguib, Hani E; Paul, Narinder
Biomedical phantoms are commonly used for various medical imaging modalities to improve imaging quality and procedures. Current biomedical phantoms fabricated commercially are high in cost and limited in the specificity of human environments and structures that can be mimicked. This study aimed to control the measurable computed tomography (CT) number in Hounsfield units through polymeric biomedical phantom materials using controlled amounts of hydroxyapatite (hA). The purpose was to fabricate CT phantoms capable of mimicking various coronary plaque types while introducing a fabrication technique and basis for a numerical model to which the technique may be applied. The CT number is tunable based on the controlled material properties of electron density and atomic numbers. Three different polymeric matrices of polyethylene (PE), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) were selected due to their varied specific densities and ease of fabrication acting as integral properties for CT phantom fabrication. These polymers were processed together with additions of hA in mass percentages of 2.5, 5, 10, and 20% hA as well as a 0% hA as a control for each polymeric material. By adding hA to PE, TPU, and PVDF an increasing trend was exhibited between CT number and weight percent of hA. PMID:26958580
Elevated hemoglobin A1c Is Associated with Carotid Plaque Vulnerability: Novel Findings from Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study in Hypertensive Stroke Patients.
Sun, Beibei; Zhao, Huilin; Liu, Xiaosheng; Lu, Qing; Zhao, Xihai; Pu, Jun; Xu, Jianrong
The association between hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level and carotid plaque vulnerability has been rarely studied by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The present study of MRI-identified carotid atherosclerotic lesions in hypertensive patients with acute stroke therefore sought to determine the associations between HbA1c level and plaque morphological and compositional characteristics and acute cerebral infarction (ACI) severity. Eighty hypertensive patients with acute stroke were enrolled; stratified into high (≥6.5%) and low (HbA1c groups; and underwent carotid and brain MRI to assess carotid plaque features and ACI volume in the region supplied by the internal carotid artery (ICA) in the symptomatic side. Plaque burden [percent wall volume (PWV), max wall thickness (max-WT)] and lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC) were larger in the high as compared to the low HbA1c group. High HbA1c was an independent risk factor for the presence of plaque (odds ratio [OR] = 3.71) and LRNC plaque (OR = 7.08). HbA1c independently correlated with ACI severity among patients with ICA region cerebral infarction and carotid plaque. Our study suggested that an elevated HbA1c may have an adverse effect on carotid plaque vulnerability especially those with larger LRNC volumes in hypertensive stroke patients, which might exacerbate the severity of ACIs. PMID:27629481
Streptococcus mutans counts in plaque adjacent to orthodontic brackets bonded with resin-modified glass ionomer cement or resin-based composite
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Solange Machado Mota
Full Text Available This study investigated the number of Streptococcus mutans CFU (colony forming units in the saliva and plaque adjacent to orthodontic brackets bonded with a glass ionomer cement - GIC (Fuji Ortho or a resin-based composite - RC (Concise. Twenty male and female patients, aged 12 to 20 years, participated in the study. Saliva was collected before and after placement of appliances. Plaque was collected from areas adjacent to brackets and saliva was again collected on the 15th, 30th, and 45th day after placement. On the 30th day, 0.4% stannous fluoride gel was applied for 4 minutes. No significant modification in the number of Streptococcus mutans CFU in saliva was observed after placement of the fixed orthodontic appliances. On the 15th day, the percentage of Streptococcus mutans CFU in plaque was statistically lower in sites adjacent to GIC-bonded brackets (mean = 0.365 than in those adjacent to RC-bonded brackets (mean = 0.935. No evidence was found of a contribution of GIC to the reduction of CFU in plaque after the 15th day. Topical application of stannous fluoride gel on the 30th day reduced the number of CFU in saliva, but not in plaque. This study suggests that the antimicrobial activity of GIC occurs only in the initial phase and is not responsible for a long-term anticariogenic property.
Real-Time Elastography Visualization and Histopathological Characterization of Rabbit Atherosclerotic Carotid Arteries.
Wang, ZhenZhen; Liu, NaNa; Zhang, LiFeng; Li, XiaoYing; Han, XueSong; Peng, YanQing; Dang, MeiZheng; Sun, LiTao; Tian, JiaWei
To evaluate the feasibility of non-invasive vascular real-time elastography imaging (RTE) in visualizing the composition of rabbit carotid atherosclerotic plaque as determined by histopathology, a rabbit model of accelerated carotid atherosclerosis was used. Thirty rabbits were randomly divided into two groups of 15 rabbits each. The first group was fed a cholesterol-rich diet and received balloon-induced injury the left common carotid artery endothelium, whereas the second group only received a cholesterol-rich diet. The rabbits were all examined in vivo with HITACHI non-invasive vascular real-time elastography (Hi-RTE) at baseline and 12 wk, and results from the elastography were compared with American Heart Association histologic classifications. Hi-RTE and the American Heart Association histologic classifications had good agreement, with weighted Cohen's kappa (95% confidence internal) of 0.785 (0.649-0.920). Strains of segmented plaques that were stained in different colors were statistically different (p visualizing normal and atherosclerotic rabbit carotid arteries non-invasively. This affordable and reliable method can be widely applied in research of both animal and human peripheral artery atherosclerosis.
Association of Small and Dense Low-density Lipoprotein with the Risk Factors Related to the Formation of the Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaque%小颗粒致密低密度脂蛋白与颈动脉斑块形成及危险因素的关系
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
沈昊; 沈国荣; 杨鸿林; 李晓平; 朱同华
目的 探讨血清小颗粒致密低密度脂蛋白胆固醇与颈动脉斑块形成的相关危险因素,为及早防治心脑血管疾病提供依据.方法 南通大学附属吴江医院2009年11月~2011年2月期间做过颈动脉超声的住院患者166例,根据颈动脉彩色多普勒超声检查结果是否有颈动脉斑块形成,分为斑块组(86例)和非斑块组(80例)2组.采用全自动生化分析仪检测所有患者血清小颗粒致密低密度脂蛋白胆固醇、甘油三酯、总胆固醇、低密度脂蛋白胆固醇、高密度脂蛋白胆固醇,记录患者既往是否有高血压病、糖尿病、吸烟及饮酒史等,进行统计学分析.结果 两组间单因素比较显示,斑块组年龄、高血压病发生率、糖尿病发生率、甘油三酯水平、总胆固醇水平明显高于非斑块组.两组间性别、吸烟史、饮酒史、低密度脂蛋白胆固醇和高密度脂蛋白胆固醇水平比较,差异无统计学意义.回归分析结果显示,年龄(OR=1.10,P<0.01)、高血压病(OR =2.81,P<0.05)、糖尿病(OR= 2.74,P<0.05)、小颗粒致密低密度脂蛋白胆固醇水平(0R=3.8,P<0.001)进入回归方程,并有统计学意义.结论 颈动脉斑块形成是多因素作用的结果,甘油三酯、总胆固醇增高是颈动脉斑块形成的相关因素,血清小颗粒致密低密度脂蛋白胆固醇、高龄、高血压病、糖尿病是颈动脉斑块形成的独立危险因素.%Aim To investigate the relationship between small and dense low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(sdLDLC) and the carotid atherosclerotic plaque in Chinese population. Methods The serum level of sdLDLC was examined by the automatic analyzer in 166 patients. They were all examined with the carotid colour Doppler flow imaging, and were grouped as plaque group ( n = 86) and no plaque group ( n = 80) according to the result of duplex, colour Doppler flow imaging. Patients of the two groups were compared in the level of some possible
前列腺素E1对兔动脉粥样硬化易损斑块内新生血管的影响%Effects of Prostaglanadin E1 on Angiogenesis in Atherosclerotic Vulnerable Plaques in Rabbits
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
郑雪; 白万军; 周聊生; 李宏建
目的 建立兔动脉粥样硬化易损斑块模型,选择辛伐他汀为阳性对照药物,观察前列腺素E1对斑块易损指数及斑块内新生血管的影响.方法 将30只新西兰兔随机分为模型组、前列腺素E1组、辛伐他汀组,每组10只,建立易损斑块模型,并进行药物干预.腹主动脉切片进行形态学及斑块内出血观察;计算斑块易损指数;免疫组化观察斑块内相关因子表达;逆转录聚合酶链反应检测相关因子mRNA表达水平.结果 与模型组相比,前列腺素E1组斑块易损指数显著降低(1.23±0.23比2.84±0.59,P<0.05),血小板内皮细胞黏附分子1的表达明显减少(0.153±0.031比0.381±0.062,P<0.05),斑块内出血现象明显减轻;并且能够显著降低斑块内缺氧诱导因子1α、血管内皮生长因子蛋白表达(0.252±0.032比0.439±0.044,P<0.01;0.396±0.026比0.673±0.084,P<0.01)及mRNA水平(0.706±0.032比1.183±0.134,P<0.05;0.121±0.019比0.468±0.022,P<0.05);前列腺素E1组和辛伐他汀组斑块内缺氧诱导因子1α的蛋白表达及mRNA水平具有显著性差异(0.252±0.032比0.163±0.018,P <0.05;0.706±0.032比0.763±0.018,P<0.05).结论 前列腺素E1能够抑制斑块内新生血管的生成,具有稳定易损斑块的作用,其可能机制与辛伐他汀有所不同,是通过抑制斑块内缺氧诱导因子1α的激活进而下调血管内皮生长因子表达发挥作用.%Aim To establish the rabbit model of atherosclerotic vulnerable plaques, and study the effects of prostaglandin El on the angiogenesis which is induced by atherosclerosis. Methed 30 New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 3 groups (model group, prostaglandin El group, and simvastatin group), each group has 10 rabbits. The rabbit model of atherosclerotic vulnerable plaques were established, and the rabbits were given drugs to affect the disease. The abdominal aorta were processed and examined by hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining. The
IVUS-Based FSI Models for Human Coronary Plaque Progression Study: Components, Correlation and Predictive Analysis
WANG, LIANG; Wu, Zheyang; Yang, Chun; Zheng, Jie; Bach, Richard; Muccigrosso, David; Billiar, Kristen; Maehara, Akiko; Mintz, Gary S; Tang, Dalin
Atherosclerotic plaque progression is believed to be associated with mechanical stress conditions. Patient follow-up in vivo intravascular ultrasound coronary plaque data were acquired to construct fluid-structure interaction (FSI) models with cyclic bending to obtain flow wall shear stress (WSS), plaque wall stress (PWS) and strain (PWSn) data and investigate correlations between plaque progression measured by wall thickness increase (WTI), cap thickness increase (CTI), lipid depth increase ...
A role for archaeal organisms in development of atherosclerotic vulnerable plaques and myxoid matrices Um papel para organismos de arqueia no desenvolvimento de placas ateroscleróticas vulner��veis e matriz mixomatosa
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Maria L Higuchi
Full Text Available PURPOSE: Vulnerable plaques are characterized by a myxoid matrix, necrotic lipidic core, reactive oxygen species, and high levels of microorganisms. Aerobic microbes such as Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae usually do not survive in oxidative stress media. Archaea are anaerobic microbes with powerful anti-oxidative enzymes that allow detoxification of free radicals whose presence might favor the survival of aerobic microorganisms. We searched for archaeal organisms in vulnerable plaques, and possible associations with myxoid matrix, chlamydia, and mycoplasma bodies. METHODS: Twenty-nine tissue samples from 13 coronary artherectomies from large excentric ostial or bifurcational lesions were studied using optical and electron microscopy. Infectious agents compatible with archaea, chlamydia, and mycoplasma were semiquantified using electron micrographs and correlated with the amounts of fibromuscular tissue, myxoid matrix, and foam cells, as determined from semi-thin sections. Six of the cases were also submitted to polymerase chain reaction with archaeal primers. RESULTS: All 13 specimens showed archaeal-compatible structures and chlamydial and mycoplasmal bodies in at least 1 sample. There was a positive correlation between extent of the of myxoid matrix and archaeal bodies (r = 0.44, P = 0.02; between archaeal and mycoplasmal bodies (r = 0.41, P = 0.03, and between chlamydial bodies and foam cells (r = 0.42; P = 0.03. The PCR test was positive for archaeal DNA in 4 of the 6 fragments. DISCUSSION: DNA and forms suggestive of archaea are present in vulnerable plaques and may have a fundamental role in the proliferation of mycoplasma and chlamydia. This seems to be the first description of apparently pathogenic archaea in human internal organ lesions.PROPOSTA: Placas vulneráveis são caracterizadas por matriz mixomatosa, centro lipídico necrótico, espécies reativas de oxigênio e alto níveis de microorganismos. Micróbios aer
维持性血液透析患者降脂治疗对颈动脉硬化斑块的干预性研究%Intervention study of lipid-lowering therapy on carotid atherosclerotic plaques in maintenance hemodialysis
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
石梅; 王金刚; 侯华; 张金锋; 郑宝萍; 邢建华; 王鹏霄
Objective To study the changes of carotid atherosclerotic plaques in maintenance hemodialysis patients after lipid-lowering therapy, and to provide guidance for clinical prevention and treatment carotid atherosclero-sis in patients underwent maintenance hemodialysis. Methods 136 cases of hemodialysis patients were selected and randomly divided into treatment group and control group. The control group used dialysis and other conventional treat-ments, and the treatment group used cholesterol-lowering drugs (sodium fluoride cut statin) with 40 mg/d in addition to the treatment in the control group. The changes of carotid plaques and the related parameters of hematology after 12 months treatment and ultrasonic testing in the two groups were compared. Results After treatment, the carotid artery plaque area and carotid intima-in the film thickness (CIMT) were statistically significantly decreased in the treatment group, compared to those before treatment (P0.05). Conclusion Carot-id artery plaque area and thickness of CIMT in maintenance hemodialysis patients are significantly reduced, and lipid levels and blood rheological index are significantly improved after the lipid-lowering therapy, which is conducive to the prognosis of patients.%目的:研究维持性血液透析性患者进行降脂治疗后颈动脉硬化斑块的变化情况,为临床上需进行血液透析的患者预防和治疗颈动脉硬化提供指导意见。方法选取在我科进行治疗的血液透析的患者136例随机分为治疗组和对照组,对照组患者采用透析等常规方法治疗,治疗组在对照组基础上施加降血脂类药物(氟伐他汀钠)40 mg/d,治疗12个月后超声检查比较两组颈动脉斑块变化及各血液学相关指标的变化情况。结果治疗组患者治疗前后颈总动脉斑块面积和颈动脉内膜-中膜厚度(CIMT)进行比较,其差异均具有统计学意义(P0.05);治疗后两组患者分别进行颈总动脉斑块面积�
Molecular magnetic resonance imaging of atherosclerotic vessel wall disease
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Noerenberg, Dominik [Charite - University Medicine Berlin, Department of Radiology, Berlin (Germany); University of Munich - Grosshadern, Department of Clinical Radiology, Munich (Germany); Ebersberger, Hans U. [Heart Center Munich-Bogenhausen, Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Munich (Germany); Diederichs, Gerd; Hamm, Bernd [Charite - University Medicine Berlin, Department of Radiology, Berlin (Germany); Botnar, Rene M. [King' s College London, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, London (United Kingdom); Makowski, Marcus R. [Charite - University Medicine Berlin, Department of Radiology, Berlin (Germany); King' s College London, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, London (United Kingdom)
Molecular imaging aims to improve the identification and characterization of pathological processes in vivo by visualizing the underlying biological mechanisms. Molecular imaging techniques are increasingly used to assess vascular inflammation, remodeling, cell migration, angioneogenesis and apoptosis. In cardiovascular diseases, molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers new insights into the in vivo biology of pathological vessel wall processes of the coronary and carotid arteries and the aorta. This includes detection of early vascular changes preceding plaque development, visualization of unstable plaques and assessment of response to therapy. The current review focuses on recent developments in the field of molecular MRI to characterise different stages of atherosclerotic vessel wall disease. A variety of molecular MR-probes have been developed to improve the non-invasive detection and characterization of atherosclerotic plaques. Specifically targeted molecular probes allow for the visualization of key biological steps in the cascade leading to the development of arterial vessel wall lesions. Early detection of processes which lead to the development of atherosclerosis and the identification of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques may enable the early assessment of response to therapy, improve therapy planning, foster the prevention of cardiovascular events and may open the door for the development of patient-specific treatment strategies. (orig.)
Molecular magnetic resonance imaging of atherosclerotic vessel wall disease
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Molecular imaging aims to improve the identification and characterization of pathological processes in vivo by visualizing the underlying biological mechanisms. Molecular imaging techniques are increasingly used to assess vascular inflammation, remodeling, cell migration, angioneogenesis and apoptosis. In cardiovascular diseases, molecular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers new insights into the in vivo biology of pathological vessel wall processes of the coronary and carotid arteries and the aorta. This includes detection of early vascular changes preceding plaque development, visualization of unstable plaques and assessment of response to therapy. The current review focuses on recent developments in the field of molecular MRI to characterise different stages of atherosclerotic vessel wall disease. A variety of molecular MR-probes have been developed to improve the non-invasive detection and characterization of atherosclerotic plaques. Specifically targeted molecular probes allow for the visualization of key biological steps in the cascade leading to the development of arterial vessel wall lesions. Early detection of processes which lead to the development of atherosclerosis and the identification of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques may enable the early assessment of response to therapy, improve therapy planning, foster the prevention of cardiovascular events and may open the door for the development of patient-specific treatment strategies. (orig.)
Incremental value of live/real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography over the two-dimensional technique in the assessment of aortic atherosclerotic thrombi and ulcers.
Elsayed, Mahmoud; Bulur, Serkan; Kalla, Aditi; Ahmed, Mustafa I; Hsiung, Ming C; Uygur, Begum; Alagic, Nermina; Sungur, Aylin; Singh, Satinder; Nanda, Navin C
We present two cases in whom live/real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE) provided incremental value in the assessment of atherosclerotic disease in the aorta. In one patient, it identified additional atherosclerotic ulcers as well as thrombi within them which were missed by two-dimensional (2D) TEE. In both cases, the size of the large mobile atherosclerotic plaque was underestimated by 2DTEE as compared with 3DTEE. Furthermore, 3DTEE provided volume quantification of the thrombi and ulcers which is not possible by 2DTEE. The echocardiographic findings of atherosclerotic plaques were confirmed by computed tomography in one patient and by surgery in the other.
Influence of Atorvastatin on Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques and Prognosis of Aged Acute Cerebral Infarction%阿托伐他汀对老年急性脑梗死患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块的影响
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
何荣芬; 仇君
Objective To explore the influence of atorvastatin on carotid atherosclerotic plaques and prognosis of aged acute cerebral infarction. Methods 120 cases with aged acute cerebral infarction were randomly divided into the control group and the observation group with 60 cases in each group. The two groups were given the routine treatment such as aspirin, vitamin E and vitamin C. On this basis,the observation group was added atorvastatin. Blood fat,carotid atherosclerostic plaque scores and ability of daily life (ADL) after 6 - month intervention were observed and compared between the two groups. Results Total triglyceride, total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein after 6 - month intervention in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control groupv P < 0. 01). The plaque scores in the observation group and the control group were (3. 78 ±0.68) and (4. 52 ± 0. 75) respectively,the observation group was obviously lower than the control group ( P < 0. 01). The scores of the modified Barthel index in the observation group and the control group were (77.90+21.74) and (51. 54 ± 12. 44) , respectively, showing that the observation group was obviously superior to the control group ( P < 0. 01). Conclusion Atorvastatin for treating aged acute cerebral infarction can greatly decrease the blood fat, alleviate the degree of arterial atherosclerosis and is benefit to the recovery of patient' s ADL.%目的 研究阿托伐他汀对老年急性脑梗死患者颈动脉粥样硬化斑块及预后的影响.方法 将120例老年急性脑梗死患者随机分为对照组与观察组,各60例.两组患者均给予阿司匹林、维生素E、维生素C等脑梗死常规治疗,观察组在对照组治疗基础上加用阿托伐他汀治疗,比较两组干预6个月后血脂水平、颈动脉粥样硬化斑块积分及日常生活能力.结果 干预6个月后观察组血甘油三酯、总胆固醇及低密度脂蛋白水平显著低于对照组(P<0.01);观�
Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Atherosclerotic Lesion with New Devised Animal Surface Coil
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
ZHAO Bing-hui; LI Ming-hua; ZHAO Qing; CHENG Ying-sheng; XIAO Yun-feng; ZHAO Jia-min
The ability of dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE MRI) with a new devised animal surface coil was analyzed in identifying atherosclerotic plaques in the rabbit medium-sized iliac artery (IA).Then a comparative analysis of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) and DCE MRI was clone in discerning morphology and components of 80 atherosclerotic plaques identified by histopathology.It shows that the DCE MRI may be an emerging noninvasive and economic way to characterize atherosclerotic plaques at present.What's more,a new devised animal surface coil would further improve the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and the quality of imaging.However,CT angiography (CTA) may be better than MR angiography(MRA) in detecting vessel stenosis.
A comparative study on plaque vulnerability using constitutive equations.
Karimi, A; Navidbakhsh, M; Faghihi, S
Atherosclerosis is the most serious and common form of cardiovascular disease in which plaque builds up inside the arteries. Peak plaque stress is considered as the main reason for plaque rupture, which results in heart attack and stroke. In the current research, the finite element method is used to anticipate plaque vulnerability, using human samples. A total of 23 healthy and atherosclerotic human coronary arteries (14 healthy and 9 atherosclerotic) were removed within 5 h postmortem. The samples were mounted on a uniaxial tensile test machine and the obtained mechanical properties were used in finite element models. The peak plaque stresses for the Ogden hyperelastic model were compared to the Mooney-Rivlin and Neo-Hookean outcomes. The results indicated that hypocellular plaque in all three models has the highest stress values compared to the cellular and calcified ones and, as a result, is quite prone to rupture. The calcified plaque type, in contrast, has the lowest stress values and remains stable. The results can be used in plaque vulnerability prediction and have clinical implications for interventions and surgeries such as balloon-angioplasty, cardiopulmonary bypass and stenting.
Spiral computed tomographic imaging related to computerized ultrasonographic images of carotid plaque morphology and histology
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Grønholdt, Marie-Louise; Wagner, A; Wiebe, B M;
Echolucency of carotid atherosclerotic plaques, as evaluated by computerized B-mode ultrasonographic images, has been associated with an increased incidence of brain infarcts on cerebral computed tomographic scans. We tested the hypotheses that characterization of carotid plaques on spiral comput...
Human coronary plaque wall thickness correlated positively with flow shear stress and negatively with plaque wall stress: an IVUS-based fluid-structure interaction multi-patient study
Fan, Rui; Tang, Dalin; Yang, Chun; Zheng, Jie; Bach, Richard; WANG, LIANG; Muccigrosso, David; Billiar, Kristen; Zhu, Jian; Ma, Genshan; Maehara, Akiko; Mintz, Gary S
Background Atherosclerotic plaque progression and rupture are believed to be associated with mechanical stress conditions. In this paper, patient-specific in vivo intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) coronary plaque image data were used to construct computational models with fluid-structure interaction (FSI) and cyclic bending to investigate correlations between plaque wall thickness and both flow shear stress and plaque wall stress conditions. Methods IVUS data were acquired from 10 patients afte...
Molecular mechanism study of intervention effect of Cassia seed on atherosclerotic plaque of rab-bits with hyperhomocysteinemia%决明子对高同型半胱氨酸血症兔动脉粥样斑块干预的分子机制研究
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
周路坦; 周玲生; 周银生; 丁可
Objective To investigate the molecular mechanism of intervention effect of Cassia seed on atherosclerotic plaque of rabbits with hyperhomocysteinemia. Methods Forty rabbits were ran-domly divided into four groups:control group, methionine group,Cassia seed ﹢ methionine group,Lipitor﹢methionine group. Rabbits with hyperhomocysteinemia model were established using high L-methionine. The plasma levels of homocysteine( Hcy)in rabbits were compared among the four groups. The formation process of plaque was detected by vascular ultrasound,the expression levels of Bcl-2 and Bax were observed by immunohistochemistry,and the intervention effect of Cassia seed on the pathologic process of the disease was analyzed. Results Compared with methionine group,IMT of ab-dominal aorta and Vp of abdominal aorta decreased obviously in Cassia seed group and Lipitor group, there were significant differences( P ﹤0. 05 ),but there were no significant differences between Cassia seed group and Lipitor group( P ﹥0. 05 ). Immunohistochemistry showed that,there was significant difference in the Bax expression level between methionine group and control group( P﹤0. 01 ). Compared with methionine group,the positive expression rate of Bax in smooth muscle cells and foam cells de-creased,the expression levels of Bcl-2 increased slightly in Cassia seed group and Lipitor group,there were significant differences(P﹤0. 01). The ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 decreased in Cassia seed group. Conclu-sions Cassia seed can intervene the formation of atherosclerotic plaque of rabbits with hyperhomocys-teinemia through down-regulation the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 .%目的:探讨决明子对高同型半胱氨酸( HHcy)血症兔动脉粥样斑块干预的分子机制。方法将40只家兔随机分成对照组、蛋氨酸组、决明子﹢蛋氨酸组、立普妥﹢蛋氨酸组。采用高L-蛋氨酸建立兔高同型半胱氨酸血症模型。比较各组兔血浆同型半胱氨酸( Hcy)含量,应用血�
Modeling of drug and drug-encapsulated nanoparticle transport in patient-specific coronary artery walls to treat vulnerable plaques
Hossain, Shaolie S.
The main objective of this work is to develop computational tools to support the design of a catheter-based local drug delivery system that uses nanoparticles as drug carriers in order to treat vulnerable plaques and diffuse atherosclerotic disease.
IGF-1 Has Plaque-Stabilizing Effects in Atherosclerosis by Altering Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotype
von der Thüsen, Jan H; Borensztajn, Keren S.; Moimas, Silvia; van Heiningen, Sandra; Teeling, Peter; Van Berkel, Theo J. C.; Biessen, Erik A. L.
Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) signaling is important for the maintenance of plaque stability in atherosclerosis due to its effects on vascular smooth muscle cell (vSMC) phenotype. To investigate this hypothesis, we studied the effects of the highly inflammatory milieu of the atherosclerotic plaque on IGF-1 signaling and stability-related phenotypic parameters of murine vSMCs in vitro, and the effects of IGF-1 supplementation on plaque phenotype in an atherosclerotic mouse model. M1-pol...
Micro-FTIR imaging spectroscopy of calcified atheromatous carotid plaques. Part IV
Alò, Francesco; Conti, Carla; Ferraris, Paolo; Giorgini, Elisabetta; Rubini, Corrado; Sabbatini, Simona; Tosi, Giorgio
Micro-imaging infrared spectroscopy has been performed on atheromatous plaques in order to localize and characterize substances responsible for the cytotoxic effects that prevent macrophages clearance of lipidic and calcified materials. In plaques with different graded atherosclerotic lesions, infrared determinations allowed to visualize gruel and ceroid toxic components and variously calcified zones. Compare correlations let to visualize the progression of the lesion on going from the lumen to the outer media of the plaque.
Atherosclerotic Plaque Vulnerability in Experimental Models of Atherosclerosis
D. Segers (Dolf)
textabstractAtherosclerosis is a chronic and often progressive disease of the wall of the arterial vasculature. The term atherosclerosis is derived from the Greek words "athero" meaning gruel or paste and "skleros" meaning stiff or hard. Atherosclerosis is considered a major clinical problem, which
The prevention and regression of atherosclerotic plaques: emerging treatments
Kalanuria AA; Nyquist P; Ling G
Atul Ashok Kalanuria,1 Paul Nyquist,1 Geoffrey Ling1,21Division of Neuro Critical Care, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, 2Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USAAbstract: Occlusive vascular diseases, such as sudden coronary syndromes, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease, are a huge burden on the health care systems of developed and developing countri...
Rate of Atherosclerotic Plaque Formation Predicts Cardiovascular Events in ESRD
Benedetto, Francesco Antonio; Tripepi, Giovanni; Mallamaci, Francesca; Zoccali, Carmine
Carotid intima media thickness (IMT) is a strong, independent predictor of cardiovascular events in both the general population and among those with end-stage renal disease (ESRD), but it is unknown whether changes in IMT or other ultrasound-measured indicators of atherosclerosis over time provide additional prognostic information. The progression of atherosclerosis with carotid ultrasound was followed in a cohort of 135 ESRD patients, 103 of whom had a repeat ultrasound after 15 mo of follow...
Carotid plaque age is a feature of plaque stability inversely related to levels of plasma insulin.
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Sara Hägg
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: The stability of atherosclerotic plaques determines the risk for rupture, which may lead to thrombus formation and potentially severe clinical complications such as myocardial infarction and stroke. Although the rate of plaque formation may be important for plaque stability, this process is not well understood. We took advantage of the atmospheric (14C-declination curve (a result of the atomic bomb tests in the 1950s and 1960s to determine the average biological age of carotid plaques. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDING: The cores of carotid plaques were dissected from 29 well-characterized, symptomatic patients with carotid stenosis and analyzed for (14C content by accelerator mass spectrometry. The average plaque age (i.e. formation time was 9.6±3.3 years. All but two plaques had formed within 5-15 years before surgery. Plaque age was not associated with the chronological ages of the patients but was inversely related to plasma insulin levels (p = 0.0014. Most plaques were echo-lucent rather than echo-rich (2.24±0.97, range 1-5. However, plaques in the lowest tercile of plaque age (most recently formed were characterized by further instability with a higher content of lipids and macrophages (67.8±12.4 vs. 50.4±6.2, p = 0.00005; 57.6±26.1 vs. 39.8±25.7, p<0.0005, respectively, less collagen (45.3±6.1 vs. 51.1±9.8, p<0.05, and fewer smooth muscle cells (130±31 vs. 141±21, p<0.05 than plaques in the highest tercile. Microarray analysis of plaques in the lowest tercile also showed increased activity of genes involved in immune responses and oxidative phosphorylation. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Our results show, for the first time, that plaque age, as judge by relative incorporation of (14C, can improve our understanding of carotid plaque stability and therefore risk for clinical complications. Our results also suggest that levels of plasma insulin might be involved in determining carotid plaque age.
Intracranial Atherosclerotic Disease
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Maria Khan
Full Text Available Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD is the most common proximate mechanism of ischemic stroke worldwide. Approximately half of those affected are Asians. For diagnosis of ICAD, intra-arterial angiography is the gold standard to identify extent of stenosis. However, noninvasive techniques including transcranial ultrasound and MRA are now emerging as reliable modalities to exclude moderate to severe (50%–99% stenosis. Little is known about measures for primary prevention of the disease. In terms of secondary prevention of stroke due to intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis, aspirin continues to be the preferred antiplatelet agent although clopidogrel along with aspirin has shown promise in the acute phase. Among Asians, cilostazol has shown a favorable effect on symptomatic stenosis and is of benefit in terms of fewer bleeds. Moreover, aggressive risk factor management alone and in combination with dual antiplatelets been shown to be most effective in this group of patients. Interventional trials on intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis have so far only been carried out among Caucasians and have not yielded consistent results. Since the Asian population is known to be preferentially effected, focused trials need to be performed to establish treatment modalities that are most effective in this population.
Effect of calcification on the mechanical stability of plaque based on a three-dimensional carotid bifurcation model
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Wong Kelvin KL
Full Text Available Abstract Background This study characterizes the distribution and components of plaque structure by presenting a three-dimensional blood-vessel modelling with the aim of determining mechanical properties due to the effect of lipid core and calcification within a plaque. Numerical simulation has been used to answer how cap thickness and calcium distribution in lipids influence the biomechanical stress on the plaque. Method Modelling atherosclerotic plaque based on structural analysis confirms the rationale for plaque mechanical examination and the feasibility of our simulation model. Meaningful validation of predictions from modelled atherosclerotic plaque model typically requires examination of bona fide atherosclerotic lesions. To analyze a more accurate plaque rupture, fluid-structure interaction is applied to three-dimensional blood-vessel carotid bifurcation modelling. A patient-specific pressure variation is applied onto the plaque to influence its vulnerability. Results Modelling of the human atherosclerotic artery with varying degrees of lipid core elasticity, fibrous cap thickness and calcification gap, which is defined as the distance between the fibrous cap and calcification agglomerate, form the basis of our rupture analysis. Finite element analysis shows that the calcification gap should be conservatively smaller than its threshold to maintain plaque stability. The results add new mechanistic insights and methodologically sound data to investigate plaque rupture mechanics. Conclusion Structural analysis using a three-dimensional calcified model represents a more realistic simulation of late-stage atherosclerotic plaque. We also demonstrate that increases of calcium content that is coupled with a decrease in lipid core volume can stabilize plaque structurally.
Self-gated CINE MRI for combined contrast-enhanced imaging and wall-stiffness measurements of murine aortic atherosclerotic lesions.
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Brigit den Adel
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: High-resolution contrast-enhanced imaging of the murine atherosclerotic vessel wall is difficult due to unpredictable flow artifacts, motion of the thin artery wall and problems with flow suppression in the presence of a circulating contrast agent. METHODS AND RESULTS: We applied a 2D-FLASH retrospective-gated CINE MRI method at 9.4T to characterize atherosclerotic plaques and vessel wall distensibility in the aortic arch of aged ApoE(-/- mice after injection of a contrast agent. The method enabled detection of contrast enhancement in atherosclerotic plaques in the aortic arch after I.V. injection of micelles and iron oxides resulting in reproducible plaque enhancement. Both contrast agents were taken up in the plaque, which was confirmed by histology. Additionally, the retrospective-gated CINE method provided images of the aortic wall throughout the cardiac cycle, from which the vessel wall distensibility could be calculated. Reduction in plaque size by statin treatment resulted in lower contrast enhancement and reduced wall stiffness. CONCLUSIONS: The retrospective-gated CINE MRI provides a robust and simple way to detect and quantify contrast enhancement in atherosclerotic plaques in the aortic wall of ApoE(-/- mice. From the same scan, plaque-related changes in stiffness of the aortic wall can be determined. In this mouse model, a correlation between vessel wall stiffness and atherosclerotic lesions was found.
Prednisolone-containing liposomes accumulate in human atherosclerotic macrophages upon intravenous administration
Valk, van der Fleur M.; Wijk, van Diederik F.; Lobatto, Mark E.; Verberne, Hein J.; Storm, Gert; Willems, Martine C.M.; Legemate, Dink A.; Nederveen, Aart J.; Calcagno, Claudia; Mani, Venkatesh; Ramachandran, Sarayu; Paridaans, Maarten P.M.; Otten, Maarten J.; Dallinga-Thie, Geesje M.; Fayad, Zahi A.; Nieuwdorp, Max; Schulte, Dominik M.; Metselaar, Josbert M.; Mulder, Willem J.M.; Stroes, Erik S.G.
Drug delivery to atherosclerotic plaques via liposomal nanoparticles may improve therapeutic agents' risk–benefit ratios. Our paper details the first clinical studies of a liposomal nanoparticle encapsulating prednisolone (LN-PLP) in atherosclerosis. First, PLP's liposomal encapsulation improved its
Effects of sodium trimetaphosphate supplementation of a high sucrose diet on the microbial and biochemical composition of four-day plaque and on urine calcium and phosphorus levels.
Dennis, D A; Gawronski, T H; Cressey, D E; Folke, L E
Daily supplementation of a high sucrose diet with 5 gm TMP resulted in significant alterations in certain human plaque components. Veillonella and Neisseria population (as percent total viable microorganisms), S sanguis (as percent streptococci), and levan hydrolase activity per milligram of plaque increased, whereas total viable microorganisms per milligram of plaque, streptococci per milligram of plaque, and specific fructosyltransferase activity decreased during the TMP-containing diet regimen. PMID:1067293
The expanding indications for virtual histology intravascular ultrasound for plaque analysis prior to carotid stenting.
Schiro, B J; Wholey, M H
Complications of carotid artery stenting (CAS), including stroke, remain relatively high when compared with carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Current selection criteria for patients undergoing CAS are based predominately on surgical risk related to other comorbidities. Little attention is given to the morphology of the atherosclerotic plaque, although studies have shown that extensive variability exists which confers certain risks for plaque vulnerability. Virtual Histology intravascular ultrasound (VH IVUS) offers a unique method of assessing plaque morphology prior to CAS. Herein, the authors review the concepts of atherosclerotic plaque morphology and discuss the background of VH IVUS and illustrate its use in the carotid system. With selection of the appropriate patient and the appropriate plaque, more favorable outcomes of CAS may be achieved which will solidify its place as a frontline treatment of carotid vascular disease.
Serum cyclin-dependent kinase 9 is a potential biomarker of atherosclerotic inflammation
Han, Yeming; Zhao, Shanshan; Gong, Yaoqin; Hou, Guihua
Atherosclerotic coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most prevalent diseases worldwide. Atherosclerosis was considered to be the single most important contributor to CAD. In this study, a distinct serum protein expression pattern in CAD patients was demonstrated by proteomic analysis with two-dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry. In particular, CDK9 was found to be highly elevated in serum, monocytes and artery plaque samples of CAD patients. Furthermore, there was high infiltration of CD14+ monocytes/macrophages within artery plaques correlated with the expression of CDK9. Moreover, Flavopiridol (CDK9 inhibitor) could inhibit THP-1 cell (monocytic acute leukemia cell line) proliferation by targeting CDK9. Altogether, These findings indicate that CDK9 represent an important role for inflammation in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. It may be a potential biomarker of atherosclerotic inflammation and offer insights into the pathophysiology and targeted therapy for atherosclerotic CAD. PMID:26636538
PI3K/Akt/mTOR信号通路在巨噬细胞自噬及动脉粥样硬化斑块不稳定中的作用%Roles of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway in macrophage autophagy and atherosclerotic plaque instability
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
王和峰; 翟纯刚; 庞文会; 王晨; 杨敏; 赵凯; 李大庆; 张运; 李继福
whether selective inhibition of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/pro-tein kinase B (Akt)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway stabilizes the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques by promoting macrophage autophagy. METHODS; In in vitro study, casodex (20 μmol/L) , rapamycin (10 nmol/L) or mTOR-siRNA (30 nmol/L) was used to treat mouse macrophage cell line RAW 264. 7. Inflammation-related cytokines secreted by macrophages were measured by means of ELJSA. Ultrastructural changes of the macrophages were examined by transmission electron microscopy. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Akt, mTOR and autophage-related protein Beclin 1 were assayed by real-time fluorescence quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting. The expression of autophagy-related indicator LC3-II was detected by immunofluorescence and Western blotting. In in vivo study, 24 New Zealand white rabbits underwent balloon-induced abdominal aortic wall injury and were fed with a diet of 1% cholesterol for 8 weeks. The rabbits were randomly divided into control group (n=8), casodex group (1.0 mg·kg-1·d-1, n = 8) and rapamycin group (0. 5 mg· kg-1·d-1 , n=8). Four weeks after drug administration, intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) was carried out to observe the plaque imaging. Ultrastructural changes of the macrophages and the protein expression of Akt, mTOR and LC3-II in the macrophages were also measured. RESULTS; In in vitro study, more typical autophago-somes were detected in casodex-, rapamycin- or mTOR-siRNA-treated cells. The expression level of LC3-II increased, but Beclin 1 ,p-Akt and p-mTOR significantly decreased in the 3 treatment groups. The concentration of IL-10 decreased while IFN-γ significantly increased in the treatment groups. In in vivo study, IVUS found that external elastic membrane area (EEMA) ,plaque area(PA) and plaque burden (PB) significantly decreased in casodex and rapamycin treatment groups. Expression of LC3-II increased significantly in the 2 treatment
A focus on inflammation as a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
Gregersen, Ida; Holm, Sverre; Dahl, Tuva B; Halvorsen, Bente; Aukrust, Pål
Atherosclerosis is a dynamic, pathogenic process in the artery wall, with potential adverse outcome for the host. Acute events such as myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke often result from rupture of unstable atherosclerotic lesions. Understanding the underlying pathology of such lesions and why and when they rupture, is therefore of great interest for the development of new diagnostics and treatment. Inflammation is one of the key drivers of atherosclerotic plaque development and the interplay between inflammation and lipids constitutes the hallmark of atherosclerotic disease. This review summarizes the role of inflammation in atherosclerosis and presents some of the latest discoveries as well as unmet needs regarding the role of inflammation as major risk factor in atherosclerotic disease.
Irradiation of existing atherosclerotic lesions increased inflammation by favoring pro-inflammatory macrophages
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Background and purpose: Recent studies have shown an increased incidence of localized atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular events in cancer patients treated with thoracic radiotherapy. We previously demonstrated that irradiation accelerated the development of atherosclerosis and predisposed to an inflammatory plaque phenotype in young hypercholesterolemic ApoE−/− mice. However, as older cancer patients already have early or advanced stages of atherosclerosis at the time of radiotherapy, we investigated the effects of irradiation on the progression of existing atherosclerotic lesions in vivo. Material and methods: ApoE−/− mice (28 weeks old) received local irradiation with 14 or 0 Gy (sham-treated) at the aortic arch and were examined after 4 and 12 weeks for atherosclerotic lesions, plaque size and phenotype. Moreover, we investigated the impact of irradiation on macrophage phenotype (pro- or anti-inflammatory) and function (efferocytotic capacity, i.e. clearance of apoptotic cells) in vitro. Results: Irradiation of existing lesions in the aortic arch resulted in smaller, macrophage-rich plaques with intraplaque hemorrhage and increased apoptosis. In keeping with the latter, in vitro studies revealed augmented polarization toward pro-inflammatory macrophages after irradiation and reduced efferocytosis by anti-inflammatory macrophages. In addition, considerably more lesions in irradiated mice were enriched in pro-inflammatory macrophages. Conclusions: Irradiation of existing atherosclerotic lesions led to smaller but more inflamed plaques, with increased numbers of apoptotic cells, most likely due to a shift toward pro-inflammatory macrophages in the plaque
Assessment of carotid plaque composition using fast-kV switching dual-energy CT with gemstone detector: comparison with extracorporeal and virtual histology-intravascular ultrasound
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Shinohara, Yuki; Kuya, Keita; Ohta, Yasutoshi; Fujii, Shinya; Ogawa, Toshihide [Tottori University, Division of Radiology, Department of Pathophysiological and Therapeutic Science, Faculty of Medicine, Yonago (Japan); Sakamoto, Makoto; Watanabe, Takashi [Tottori University, Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Neurological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yonago (Japan); Kishimoto, Junichi; Iwata, Naoki [Tottori University Hospital, Division of Clinical Radiology, Yonago (Japan)
The present study compares the applicability of CT carotid plaque imaging using effective Z maps using gemstone spectral imaging (GSI) with that of conventional extracorporeal carotid ultrasound (US) and virtual histology-intravascular ultrasound (VH-IVUS). We assessed stenosis in 31 carotid arteries of 30 patients. All patients underwent carotid CTA using GSI (Discovery CT750 HD, GE Healthcare). US and IVUS were examined with 25 and 8 vessels, respectively. We compared the effective Z values at noncalcified carotid plaque with the plaque components identified by US. We defined the plaque with low or low to iso intensity on US as vulnerable plaque and the plaque with iso, iso to high, and high intensity on US as stable plaque. We also performed visual assessment of color-coded effective Z maps in comparison with VH-IVUS and compared effective Z values with plaque components generated by VH-IVUS. The effective Z values at noncalcified carotid plaque were significantly lower for a group with vulnerable plaque, than with stable plaque on US (p < 0.05). Receiver operating curve analysis showed that AUC of effective Z values was 0.882 concerning the differentiation of these two groups on US. The interpretation of color-coded effective Z maps was essentially compatible with that of VH-IVUS for carotid plaque in all vessels. Effective Z values at noncalcified plaque showed significant negative correlation with the areas of fibro-fatty components generated by VH-IVUS (ρ = -0.874, p < 0.05). Effective Z maps generated by GSI can detect vulnerable carotid plaque materials. (orig.)
High shear stress relates to intraplaque haemorrhage in asymptomatic carotid plaques
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Tuenter, A.; Selwaness, M.; Arias Lorza, A.;
estimating equations analysis, adjusting for age, sex and carotid wall thickness. RESULTS: The study group consisted of 93 atherosclerotic carotid arteries of 74 participants. In plaques with higher maximum shear stresses, IPH was more often present (OR per unit increase in maximum shear stress (log......BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Carotid artery plaques with vulnerable plaque components are related to a higher risk of cerebrovascular accidents. It is unknown which factors drive vulnerable plaque development. Shear stress, the frictional force of blood at the vessel wall, is known to influence plaque...... formation. We evaluated the association between shear stress and plaque components (intraplaque haemorrhage (IPH), lipid rich necrotic core (LRNC) and/or calcifications) in relatively small carotid artery plaques in asymptomatic persons. METHODS: Participants (n = 74) from the population-based Rotterdam...
Relationship between Enhanced Intensity of Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound and Microvessel Density of Aortic Atherosclerostic Plaque in Rabbit Model
Xiangdong You; Pintong Huang; Chao Zhang; Minghui Wang; Ying Zhang; Yurong Hong; Shumei Wei; Chunmei Liu; Zhaoxia Pu; Jianmin Zhang; Shuyuan Chen
The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between enhanced intensity of contrast enhanced ultrasound and microvessel density of aortic atherosclerotic plaque in rabbit model. The abdominal aortas of thirty-six male New Zealand rabbits were damaged by balloon expansion and the animals were then fed a high fat diet for 12 weeks. Twenty-seven plaques on the near aortic wall were detected using conventional ultrasound examination. The maximum thickness of each plaque was recorded. CE...
The influence of chronic Helicobacter pylori infection in serum lipoprotein associated phospholipase A2 level and stability of atherosclerotic plaques in patients with carotid atherosclerosis%幽门螺杆菌感染对颈动脉粥样硬化患者血清脂蛋白相关磷脂酶A2水平及颈动脉斑块稳定性的影响
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
雷鸣; 夏丹妮; 汤兰桂; 周权; 向攀; 张洪鑫
Objective To explore the influence of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infection in serum lipoprotein associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2), carotid intima-media thickness and stability of atherosclerotic plaques in atherosclerosis patients.Methods A total of 393 cases of patients with carotid artery arteriosclerosis confirmed by carotid color uhrasonography, who are informed consent, was selected as objects.The14C urea breath test was used to determine the infection situation of selected objects of helicobacter pylori.Meanwhile, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine the level of serum lipoprotein associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2).Results Serum Lp-PLA2 levels and carotid intimamedia thickness (IMT) of patients with carotid artery atherosclerosis in Hp infection group were higher than that of Hp non-infection group, and with the degree of Hp infection aggravating in the patients of carotid artery atherosclerosis, their serum Lp-PLA2 levels and carotid IMT were also increased accordingly.F test showed that the differences of serum Lp-PLA2 levels and carotid IMT in different degree of carotid artery atherosclerosis group were statistically significant (P <0.01).The incidence of unstable plaque of Hp infection group was obviously higher than that of the Hp non-infection group in the carotid atherosclerosis with plaques with statistical significance (chi square value =4.744, P =0.029).Multivariate linear regression analysis showed that the possibility of complication of unstable plaques in Hp infection group of carotid artery atherosclerosis was 1.82 times than that of non-infection group.With serum Lp-PLA2 every increasing 1 μg/L, the possibility of instability plaque increased by 2%.Conclusions Hp infection may promote the occurrence and development of carotid artery atherosclerosis by increasing serum level of Lp-PLA2 and changing the stability of atherosclerotic plaques.%目的 探讨幽门螺杆菌(Hp)感染对颈动脉粥样硬化患者�
Coronary spasm, a pathogenic trigger of vulnerable plaque rupture
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
WANG Li-xin; L(U) Shu-zheng; ZHANG Wei-jun; SONG Xian-tao; CHEN Hui; ZHANG Li-jie
Objective This coronary artery spasm review aimed to explore the most possible pathogenic trigger mechanism of vulnerable plaque rupture.Data sources Data used in this coronary artery spasm review were mainly from Medline and Pubmed in English.Study selection These reports from major review on coronary artery spasm.and these research included coronary artery conception,pathogenesis of spasm,mechanisms of plaque rupture,epidemiological evidence,clinical manifestation and the relationship between coronary artery spasm and vulnerable plaque rupture.Results Coronary artery spasm is somehow related to the presence of atherosclerotic intima disease in the coronary artery.However,chronic low-grade inflammation causes coronary vessel smooth muscle cell hypersensitivity,which can directely cause coronary artery spasm.Myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death may be initiated by a sudden intense localized contraction of coronary artery smooth muscle.Conclusion Coronary artery spasm may be one trigger that can initiate and exacerbate vulnerable plaque rupture.
Spontaneous and Procedural Plaque Embolisation in Native Coronary Arteries: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Prevention
Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)
Giovanni Luigi De Maria
Full Text Available The detachment of atherothrombotic material from the atherosclerotic coronary plaque and downstream embolisation is an underrecognized phenomenon and it causes different degrees of impairment of the coronary microcirculation. During treatment of obstructive atherosclerotic plaque by percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI distal embolisation (DE is considered to be inevitable and it is associated with potential clinical and prognostic implications. This review aims to assess the main aspects of both spontaneous and procedural DE, analyze their different pathophysiology, provide specific insights on the main diagnostic tools for their identification, and finally focus on the main strategies for their treatment and prevention.
Distinct metabolic and vascular effects of dietary triglycerides and cholesterol in atherosclerotic and diabetic mouse models.
Laplante, Marc-André; Charbonneau, Alexandre; Avramoglu, Rita Kohen; Pelletier, Patricia; Fang, Xiangping; Bachelard, Hélène; Ylä-Herttuala, Seppo; Laakso, Markku; Després, Jean-Pierre; Deshaies, Yves; Sweeney, Gary; Mathieu, Patrick; Marette, André
Cholesterol and triglyceride-rich Western diets are typically associated with an increased occurrence of type 2 diabetes and vascular diseases. This study aimed to assess the relative impact of dietary cholesterol and triglycerides on glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, atherosclerotic plaque formation, and endothelial function. C57BL6 wild-type (C57) mice were compared with atherosclerotic LDLr(-/-) ApoB(100/100) (LRKOB100) and atherosclerotic/diabetic IGF-II × LDLr(-/-) ApoB(100/100) (LRKOB100/IGF) mice. Each group was fed either a standard chow diet, a 0.2% cholesterol diet, a high-fat diet (HFD), or a high-fat 0.2% cholesterol diet for 6 mo. The triglyceride-rich HFD increased body weight, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance but did not alter endothelial function or atherosclerotic plaque formation. Dietary cholesterol, however, increased plaque formation in LRKOB100 and LRKOB100/IGF animals and decreased endothelial function regardless of genotype. However, cholesterol was not associated with an increase of insulin resistance in LRKOB100 and LRKOB100/IGF mice and, unexpectedly, was even found to reduce the insulin-resistant effect of dietary triglycerides in these animals. Our data indicate that dietary triglycerides and cholesterol have distinct metabolic and vascular effects in obese atherogenic mouse models resulting in dissociation between the impairment of glucose homeostasis and the development of atherosclerosis.
Molecular imaging of plaques in coronary arteries with PET and SPECT
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Zhong-Hua SUN; Hairil Rashmizal; Lei XU
Coronary artery disease remains a major cause of mortality. Presence of atherosclerotic plaques in the coronary artery is responsible for lu-men stenosis which is often used as an indicator for determining the severity of coronary artery disease. However, the degree of coronary lumen stenosis is not often related to compromising myocardial blood flow, as most of the cardiac events that are caused by atherosclerotic plaques are the result of vulnerable plaques which are prone to rupture. Thus, identification of vulnerable plaques in coronary arteries has become increas-ingly important to assist identify patients with high cardiovascular risks. Molecular imaging with use of positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) has fulfilled this goal by providing functional information about plaque activity which enables accurate assessment of plaque stability. This review article provides an overview of diagnostic applications of molecular imaging tech-niques in the detection of plaques in coronary arteries with PET and SPECT. New radiopharmaceuticals used in the molecular imaging of coro-nary plaques and diagnostic applications of integrated PET/CT and PET/MRI in coronary plaques are also discussed.
Local blood pressure associates with the degree of luminal stenosis in patients with atherosclerotic disease in the middle cerebral artery
Jiang, Yuanliang; Peng, Wenjia; Teng, Zhongzhao; Gillard, Jonathan H.; Hong, Bo; Liu, Qi; Lu, Jianping
The mechanism underlying atherosclerotic ischemic events within the middle cerebral artery (MCA) is unclear. High structural stress induced by blood pressure might be a potential aetiology as plaque rupture occurs when such mechanical loading exceeds its material strength. To perform reliable analyses quantifying the mechanical loading within a plaque, the local blood pressure is needed. However, data on MCA blood pressure is currently lacking. In this study, the arterial pressure proximal to...
Release of Intracoronary Microparticles during Stent Implantation into Stable Atherosclerotic Lesions under Protection with an Aspiration Device.
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Patrick Horn
Full Text Available Stent implantation into atherosclerotic coronary vessels impacts on downstream microvascular function and induces the release of particulate debris and soluble substances, which differs qualitatively and quantitatively between native right coronary arteries (RCAs and saphenous vein grafts on right coronary arteries (SVG-RCAs. We have now quantified the release of microparticles (MPs during stent implantation into stable atherosclerotic lesions and compared the release between RCAs and SVG-RCAs.In symptomatic, male patients with stable angina and a stenosis in their RCA or SVG-RCA, respectively (n = 14/14, plaque volume and composition were analyzed using intravascular ultrasound before stent implantation. Coronary aspirate was retrieved during stent implantation with a distal occlusion/aspiration device and divided into particulate debris and plasma. Particulate debris was weighed. Platelet-derived MPs (PMPs were distinguished by flow cytometry as CD41+, endothelium-derived MPs (EMPs as CD144+, CD62E+ and CD31+/CD41-, leukocyte-derived MPs as CD45+, and erythrocyte-derived MPs as CD235+.In patients with comparable plaque volume and composition in RCAs and SVG-RCAs, intracoronary PMPs and EMPs were increased after stent implantation into their RCAs and SVG-RCAs (CD41+: 2729.6 ± 645.6 vs. 4208.7 ± 679.4 and 2355.9 ± 503.9 vs. 3285.8 ± 733.2 nr/µL; CD144+: 451.5 ± 87.9 vs. 861.7 ± 147.0 and 444.6 ± 74.8 vs. 726.5 ± 136.4 nr/µL; CD62E+: 1404.1 ± 247.7 vs. 1844.3 ± 378.6 and 1084.6 ± 211.0 vs. 1783.8 ± 384.3 nr/µL, P < 0.05, but not different between RCAs and SVG-RCAs.Stenting in stable atherosclerotic lesions is associated with a substantial release not only of PMPs, but also of EMPs in RCAs and SVG-RCAs. Their release does not differ between RCAs and SVG-RCAs.ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01430884.
CO2 vascular anastomosis of atherosclerotic and calcified arteries
White, John V.; Leefmans, Eric; Stewart, Gwendolyn J.; Katz, Mira L.; Comerota, Anthony J.
The technique for CO2 laser fusion vascular anastomosis in normal vessels has been well established. Normal arterial wall has a predictable thermal response to the incident laser energy, with rapid heating and cooling of collagen within the arterial wall. Since atherosclerosis involves subendothelial cellular proliferation, lipid and calcium deposition, it may modify the thermal responsiveness of the arterial wall. To this study, CO2 laser fusion anastomoses were attempted in rabbits with non-calcific atherosclerosis and humans with calcific atherosclerosis. All anastomoses were successfully completed without alteration in technique despite the presence of plaque at the site of laser fusion. Histology of rabbit vessels revealed the classic laser fusion cap within the adventitia and persistent atherosclerotic plaque at the flow surface. Duplex imaging of patients post-operatively demonstrated long term anastomotic patency in 2 of 3 fistulae. These results suggest that neither non-calcified or calcified atherosclerosis significantly alters the arterial wall thermal responsiveness to CO2 laser energy or inhibits creation of laser fusion anastomoses. Therefore, this technique may be applicable to the treatment of patients with atherosclerotic occlusive disease.
IgM antibody level against proinflammatory bacterial peptidoglycan is inversely correlated with extent of atherosclerotic disease
M.M.O. Nijhuis; Y. van der Graaf (Yolanda); M.J. Melief; A.H. Schoneveld (Arjan); D.P.V. de Kleijn (Dominique); J.D. Laman (Jon); G. Pasterkamp (Gerard)
textabstractObjective: Atherosclerosis may lead to acute clinical events by rupture of a vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque. Previously, we demonstrated that peptidoglycan (PGN), a major cell wall component of gram-positive bacteria that induces production of proinflammatory cytokines through TLR2 an
Low-density lipoprotein and noncalcified coronary plaque composition in patients with newly diagnosed coronary artery disease on computed tomographic angiography.
Cheng, Victor Y; Wolak, Arik; Gutstein, Ariel; Gransar, Heidi; Wong, Nathan D; Dey, Damini; Thomson, Louise E J; Hayes, Sean W; Friedman, John D; Slomka, Piotr J; Berman, Daniel S
We sought to determine significant relations between atherogenic lipoproteins and the contribution of calcified plaque (CP), mixed plaque (MP), and noncalcified plaque (NCP) to the total plaque (TP) burden in patients without previous coronary artery disease. From 823 adult patients without previously established coronary artery disease (52% receiving statin therapy, 34% asymptomatic) but with visible coronary plaque on coronary computed tomographic angiography, we obtained segmental CP, MP, NCP, and TP counts from contrast-enhanced, electrocardiographic-gated computed tomography. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine the associations of clinical factors and lipoprotein levels to CP, MP, and NCP counts and CP/TP, MP/TP, and NCP/TP count ratios. Age, male gender, diabetes, smoking, and statin therapy were significantly associated with the CP count (p NCP counts (all p values NCP/TP ratios, including an inverse association with CP/TP (p = 0.008) and a positive association with MP/TP (p = 0.032). Analyses using non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol in place of LDL cholesterol yielded similar results. In conclusion, among the traditional clinical factors used to estimate cardiovascular event risk, LDL cholesterol is associated with an increased MP and NCP burden and is the sole variable that independently predicted relative predominance of CP, MP, and NCP, suggesting a potentially important role for lipoprotein levels in modulating the type of detectable coronary arterial plaque.
Ursodeoxycholic acid impairs atherogenesis and promotes plaque regression by cholesterol crystal dissolution in mice.
Bode, Niklas; Grebe, Alena; Kerksiek, Anja; Lütjohann, Dieter; Werner, Nikos; Nickenig, Georg; Latz, Eicke; Zimmer, Sebastian
Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease driven primarily by a continuous retention of cholesterol within the subendothelial space where it precipitates to form cholesterol crystals (CC). These CC trigger a complex inflammatory response through activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and promote lesion development. Here we examined whether increasing cholesterol solubility with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) affects vascular CC formation and ultimately atherosclerotic lesion development. UDCA mediated intracellular CC dissolution in macrophages and reduced IL-1β production. In ApoE(-/-) mice, UDCA treatment not only impaired atherosclerotic plaque development but also mediated regression of established vascular lesions. Importantly, mice treated with UDCA had decreased CC-depositions in atherosclerotic plaques compared to controls. Together, our data demonstrate that UDCA impaired CC and NLRP3 dependent inflammation by increasing cholesterol solubility and diminished atherosclerosis in mice. PMID:27416761
Human urotensin II promotes hypertension and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
Watanabe, Takuya; Arita, Shigeko; Shiraishi, Yuji; Suguro, Toshiaki; Sakai, Tetsuo; Hongo, Shigeki; Miyazaki, Akira
Human urotensin II (U-II), the most potent vasoconstrictor undecapeptide identified to date, and its receptor (UT) are involved in the pathogenesis of systemic and pulmonary hypertension. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology of U-II with particular reference to its role in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms of U-II gene (S89N) are associated with onset of essential hypertension, type II diabetes mellitus, and insulin resistance in the Asian population. Plasma U-II levels are elevated in patients with vascular endothelial dysfunction-related diseases such as essential hypertension, diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure. Chronic infusion of U-II enhances atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta in apolipoprotein E-knockout mice. In human atherosclerotic plaques from the aorta and coronary and carotid arteries, U-II is expressed at high levels in endothelial cells (ECs) and lymphocytes, whereas UT is expressed at high levels in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), ECs, monocytes, and macrophages. U-II stimulates vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression in human ECs as chemoattractant for monocytes, and accelerates foam cell formation by up-regulation of acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase-1 in human monocyte-derived macrophages. U-II produces reactive oxygen species (ROS) via nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase activation in human VSMCs, and stimulates VSMC proliferation with synergistic effects when combined with ROS, oxidized LDL, and serotonin. Clinical studies demonstrated increased plasma U-II levels in accordance with the severity of carotid atherosclerosis in patients with essential hypertension and that of coronary artery lesions in patients with ischemic heart disease. Here, we summarize the key roles of U-II in progression of hypertension and atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases
Carotid and cerebrovascular disease in symptomatic patients with type 2 diabetes: assessment of prevalence and plaque morphology by dual-source computed tomography angiography
Deng Wen; Shao Heng; Dong Zhi-hui; Chu Zhi-gang; Yang Zhi-gang; He Ci; Chen Jing; Peng Li-qing; Tang Si-shi; Xiao Jia-he
Abstract Background Plaque morphology directly correlates with risk of embolism and the recently developed dual-source computed tomography angiography (DSCTA) may help to detect plaques more precisely. The aim of our study was to evaluate the prevalence and morphology of carotid and cerebrovascular atherosclerotic plaques in patients with symptomatic type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) by DSCTA. Methods From July 2009 to August 2010, DSCTA was prospectively performed in 125 consecutive patients wit...
A new murine model of stress-induced complex atherosclerotic lesions
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Amir H. Najafi
The primary purpose of this investigation was to determine whether ApoE−/− mice, when subjected to chronic stress, exhibit lesions characteristic of human vulnerable plaque and, if so, to determine the time course of such changes. We found that the lesions were remarkably similar to human vulnerable plaque, and that the time course of lesion progression raised interesting insights into the process of plaque development. Lard-fed mixed-background ApoE−/− mice exposed to chronic stress develop lesions with large necrotic core, thin fibrous cap and a high degree of inflammation. Neovascularization and intraplaque hemorrhage are observed in over 80% of stressed animals at 20 weeks of age. Previously described models report a prevalence of only 13% for neovascularization observed at a much later time point, between 36 and 60 weeks of age. Thus, our new stress-induced model of advanced atherosclerotic plaque provides an improvement over what is currently available. This model offers a tool to further investigate progression of plaque phenotype to a more vulnerable phenotype in humans. Our findings also suggest a possible use of this stress-induced model to determine whether therapeutic interventions have effects not only on plaque burden, but also, and importantly, on plaque vulnerability.
Ultrastructural characteristics of the vascular wall components of ruptured atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysm
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Tanasković Irena
Full Text Available The aim of this study was to determine the ultrastructural characteristics of cell populations and extracellular matrix components in the wall of ruptured atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA. We analyzed 20 samples of ruptured AAA. For orientation to the light microscopy, we used routine histochemical techniques by standard procedures. For ultrastructural analysis, we applied transmission electron microscopy (TEM. Our results have shown that ruptured AAA is characterized by the remains of an advanced atherosclerotic lesion in the intima followed by a complete absence of endothelial cells, the disruption of basal membrane and disruption of internal elastic lamina. On plaque margins as well as in the inner media we observed smooth muscle cells (SMCs that posses a euchromatic nucleus, a well-developed granulated endoplasmic reticulum around the nucleus and reduced myofilaments. The remains of the ruptured lipid core were acellular in all samples; however, on the lateral sides of ruptured plaque we observed a presence of two types of foam cells (FCs, spindle- and star-shaped. Fusiform FCs possess a well-differentiated basal lamina, caveolae and electron dense bodies, followed by a small number of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm. Star-shaped FCs contain a large number of lipid droplets and do not possess basal lamina. On the inner margins of the plaque, we observed a large number of cells undergoing apoptosis and necrosis, extracellular lipid droplets as well as a large number of lymphocytes. The media was thinned out with disorganized elastic lamellas, while the adventitia exhibited leukocyte infiltration. The presented results suggest that atherosclerotic plaque in ruptured AAA contains vascular SMC synthetic phenotype and two different types of FCs: some were derived from monocyte/macrophage lineage, while others were derived from SMCs of synthetic phenotype. The striking plaque hypocellularity was the result of apoptosis and necrosis
The analysis of the connection between plaque morphology of the asymptomatic carotid stenosis and ischemic brain lesions
Milošević Đorđe; Pasternak Janko; Popović Vladan; Nikolić Dragan; Milošević Pavle; Manojlović Vladimir
Background/Aim. A certain percentage of patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis have an unstable carotid plaque. For these patients it is possible to register by modern imaging methods the existence of lesions of the brain parenchyma - the silent brain infarction. These patients have a greater risk of ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to analyze the connection between the morphology of atherosclerotic carotid plaque in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis and the man...
Automated image segmentation and registration of vessel wall MRI for quantitative assessment of carotid artery vessel wall dimensions and plaque composition
Klooster, Ronald van 't
The main goal of this thesis was to develop methods for automated segmentation, registration and classification of the carotid artery vessel wall and plaque components using multi-sequence MR vessel wall images to assess atherosclerosis. First, a general introduction into atherosclerosis and differe
Striatins as plaque molecules of zonulae adhaerentes in simple epithelia, of tessellate junctions in stratified epithelia, of cardiac composite junctions and of various size classes of lateral adherens junctions in cultures of epithelia- and carcinoma-derived cells.
Franke, Werner W; Rickelt, Steffen; Zimbelmann, Ralf; Dörflinger, Yvette; Kuhn, Caecilia; Frey, Norbert; Heid, Hans; Rosin-Arbesfeld, Rina
Proteins of the striatin family (striatins 1-4; sizes ranging from 90 to 110 kDa on SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) are highly homologous in their amino acid sequences but can differ in their cell-type-specific gene expression patterns and biological functions. In various cell types, we have found one, two or three polypeptides of this evolutionarily old and nearly ubiquitous family of proteins known to serve as scaffold proteins for diverse protein complexes. Light and electron microscopic immunolocalization methods have revealed striatins in mammalian cell-cell adherens junctions (AJs). In simple epithelia, we have localized striatins as constitutive components of the plaques of the subapical zonulae adhaerentes of cells, including intestinal, glandular, ductal and urothelial cells and hepatocytes. Striatins colocalize with E-cadherin or E-N-cadherin heterodimers and with the plaque proteins α- and β-catenin, p120 and p0071. In some epithelia and carcinomas and in cultured cells derived therefrom, striatins are also seen in lateral AJs. In stratified epithelia and in corresponding squamous cell carcinomas, striatins can be found in plaques of some forms of tessellate junctions. Moreover, striatins are major plaque proteins of composite junctions (CJs; areae compositae) in the intercalated disks connecting cardiomyocytes, colocalizing with other CJ molecules, including plectin and ankyrin-G. We discuss the "multimodulator" scaffold roles of striatins in the initiation and regulation of the formation of various complex particles and structures. We propose that striatins are included in the diagnostic candidate list of proteins that, in the CJs of human hearts, can occur in mutated forms in the pathogeneses of hereditary cardiomyopathies, as seen in some types of genetically determined heart damage in boxer dogs. PMID:25501894
Fraunfelder, F T; Wright, P; Tripathi, R C
Corneal mucus plaques adhered to the anterior corneal surface in 17 of 67 advanced cases of keratoconjunctivitis sicca. The plaques were translucent to opaque and varied in size and shape, from multiple isolated islands to bizarre patterns involving more than half the corneal surface. Ultrastructurally, they consisted of mucus mixed with desquamated degenerating epithelial cells and proteinaceous and lipoidal material. The condition may be symptomatic but can be controlled and prevented in most cases by topical ocular application of 10% acetylcysteine.
Low numbers of FOXP3 positive regulatory T cells are present in all developmental stages of human atherosclerotic lesions.
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Onno J de Boer
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: T cell mediated inflammation contributes to atherogenesis and the onset of acute cardiovascular disease. Effector T cell functions are under a tight control of a specialized T cell subset, regulatory T cells (Treg. At present, nothing is known about the in situ presence of Treg in human atherosclerotic tissue. In the present study we investigated the frequency of naturally occurring Treg cells in all developmental stages of human atherosclerotic lesions including complicated thrombosed plaques. METHODOLOGY: Normal arteries, early lesions (American Heart Association classification types I, II, and III, fibrosclerotic plaques (types Vb and Vc and 'high risk' plaques (types IV, Va and VI were obtained at surgery and autopsy. Serial sections were immunostained for markers specific for regulatory T cells (FOXP3 and GITR and the frequency of these cells was expressed as a percentage of the total numbers of CD3+ T cells. Results were compared with Treg counts in biopsies of normal and inflammatory skin lesions (psoriasis, spongiotic dermatitis and lichen planus. PRINCIPLE FINDINGS: In normal vessel fragments T cells were virtually absent. Treg were present in the intima during all stages of plaque development (0.5-5%. Also in the adventitia of atherosclerotic vessels Treg were encountered, in similar low amounts. High risk lesions contained significantly increased numbers of Treg compared to early lesions (mean: 3.9 and 1.2%, respectively. The frequency of FOXP3+ cells in high risk lesions was also higher compared to stable lesions (1.7%, but this difference was not significant. The mean numbers of intimal FOXP3 positive cells in atherosclerotic lesions (2.4% was much lower than those in normal (24.3% or inflammatory skin lesions (28%. CONCLUSION: Low frequencies of Treg in all developmental stages of human plaque formation could explain the smoldering chronic inflammatory process that takes place throughout the longstanding course of
Linking CD11b+ Dendritic Cells and Natural Killer T Cells to Plaque Inflammation in Atherosclerosis
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Miche Rombouts
Full Text Available Atherosclerosis remains the leading cause of death and disability in our Western society. To investigate whether the dynamics of leukocyte (subpopulations could be predictive for plaque inflammation during atherosclerosis, we analyzed innate and adaptive immune cell distributions in blood, plaques, and lymphoid tissue reservoirs in apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE−/− mice and in blood and plaques from patients undergoing endarterectomy. Firstly, there was predominance of the CD11b+ conventional dendritic cell (cDC subset in the plaque. Secondly, a strong inverse correlation was observed between CD11b+ cDC or natural killer T (NKT cells in blood and markers of inflammation in the plaque (including CD3, T-bet, CCR5, and CCR7. This indicates that circulating CD11b+ cDC and NKT cells show great potential to reflect the inflammatory status in the atherosclerotic plaque. Our results suggest that distinct changes in inflammatory cell dynamics may carry biomarker potential reflecting atherosclerotic lesion progression. This not only is crucial for a better understanding of the immunopathogenesis but also bares therapeutic potential, since immune cell-based therapies are emerging as a promising novel strategy in the battle against atherosclerosis and its associated comorbidities. The cDC-NKT cell interaction in atherosclerosis serves as a good candidate for future investigations.
Salusins: Potential Use as a Biomarker for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Diseases
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Kengo Sato
Full Text Available Human salusin-α and salusin-β are related peptides produced from prosalusin. Bolus injection of salusin-β into rats induces more profound hypotension and bradycardia than salusin-α. Central administration of salusin-β increases blood pressure via release of norepinephrine and arginine-vasopressin. Circulating levels of salusin-α and salusin-β are lower in patients with essential hypertension. Salusin-β exerts more potent mitogenic effects on human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs and fibroblasts than salusin-α. Salusin-β accelerates inflammatory responses in human endothelial cells and monocyte-endothelial adhesion. Human macrophage foam cell formation is stimulated by salusin-β but suppressed by salusin-α. Chronic salusin-β infusion into apolipoprotein E-deficient mice enhances atherosclerotic lesions; salusin-α infusion reduces lesions. Salusin-β is expressed in proliferative neointimal lesions of porcine coronary arteries after stenting. Salusin-α and salusin-β immunoreactivity have been detected in human coronary atherosclerotic plaques, with dominance of salusin-β in macrophage foam cells, VSMCs, and fibroblasts. Circulating salusin-β levels increase and salusin-α levels decrease in patients with coronary artery disease. These findings suggest that salusin-β and salusin-α may contribute to proatherogenesis and antiatherogenesis, respectively. Increased salusin-β and/or decreased salusin-α levels in circulating blood and vascular tissue are closely linked with atherosclerosis. Salusin-α and salusin-β could be candidate biomarkers and therapeutic targets for atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
Epicardial Adipose Tissue Is Associated with Plaque Burden and Composition and Provides Incremental Value for the Prediction of Cardiac Outcome. A Clinical Cardiac Computed Tomography Angiography Study.
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Gitsios Gitsioudis
Full Text Available We sought to investigate the association of epicardial adipose tissue (eCAT volume with plaque burden, circulating biomarkers and cardiac outcomes in patients with intermediate risk for coronary artery disease (CAD.177 consecutive outpatients at intermediate risk for CAD and completed biomarker analysis including high-sensitive Troponin T (hs-TnT and hs-CRP underwent 256-slice cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA between June 2008 and October 2011. Patients with lumen narrowing ≥50% exhibited significantly higher eCAT volume than patients without any CAD or lumen narrowing 3 risk factors, presence of CAD, hs-CRP and hs-TnT.Epicardial adipose tissue volume is independently associated with plaque burden and maximum luminal narrowing by CCTA and may serve as an independent predictor for cardiac outcomes in patients at intermediate risk for CAD.
The use of Speckle Reduction Imaging (SRI) Ultrasound in the characterization of carotid artery plaques
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Liasis, Nikolaos [1st Department of Surgery, Vascular Division, ' LAIKON' Hospital, Athens University Medical School (Greece)], E-mail: email@example.com; Klonaris, Chris [1st Department of Surgery, Vascular Division, ' LAIKON' Hospital, Athens University Medical School (Greece)], E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com; Katsargyris, Athanasios [1st Department of Surgery, Vascular Division, ' LAIKON' Hospital, Athens University Medical School (Greece)], E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com; Georgopoulos, Sotirios [1st Department of Surgery, Vascular Division, ' LAIKON' Hospital, Athens University Medical School (Greece)], E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com; Labropoulos, Nicos [Division of Vascular Surgery, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Newark (United States)], E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com; Tsigris, Chris [1st Department of Surgery, Vascular Division, ' LAIKON' Hospital, Athens University Medical School (Greece)], E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com; Giannopoulos, Athanasios [1st Department of Surgery, Vascular Division, ' LAIKON' Hospital, Athens University Medical School (Greece)], E-mail: email@example.com; Bastounis, Elias [1st Department of Surgery, Vascular Division, ' LAIKON' Hospital, Athens University Medical School (Greece)], E-mail: email@example.com
Background and purpose: Speckle Reduction Imaging is a new algorithm that improves the image quality of B-mode scanning by reducing the reverberation artifacts. In the present study the value of this method for the characterization of atherosclerotic plaques in the internal carotid artery was investigated. Methods: Two hundred and twenty two patients (161 men, 61 women; mean age 73 years) referred for carotid ultrasound evaluation were included in the study. Patients with plaques of the internal carotid artery as identified by conventional B-mode scanning were investigated also with the addition of Speckle Reduction Imaging (SRI) with the use of a 4-11-MHz wide band linear transducer. Plaque morphology was rated according to a standardized protocol by two independent observers. Results: For the determination of plaque echogenicity, the reproducibility of SRI ({kappa} = 0.83) was higher than that of conventional B-mode ultrasound ({kappa} = 0.68). The interobserver agreement for plaque surface characterization was also higher for SRI ({kappa} = 0.8) than for conventional B-mode ({kappa} = 0.61). At the evaluation of the image quality through a semiquantitative analysis, SRI was rated superior in the plaque texture resolution, plaque borders determination, vessel wall demarcation and fibrous cap depiction. In addition, the level of 'speckle' was reduced with the use of SRI. Conclusions: SRI is a technique that shows good general agreement with high-resolution B-mode and can be used for the characterization of atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid artery. Furthermore, because this advanced technique allows reduction of ultrasound artifacts, it improves the image quality allowing more precise visualization of plaque morphological details.
DECT evaluation of noncalcified coronary artery plaque
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Ravanfar Haghighi, Rezvan [Medical Imaging Research Center and Colorectal Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz 719 363 5899 (Iran, Islamic Republic of); Chatterjee, S. [BGVS Chemical Engineering Building (Old), Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012 (India); Tabin, Milo; Singh, Rishi P.; Sharma, Munish; Krishna, Karthik [Department of Forensic Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029 (India); Sharma, Sanjiv; Jagia, Priya [Department of Cardiac-Radiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029 (India); Ray, Ruma; Arava, Sudhir [Department of Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029 (India); Yadav, Rakesh [Department of Cardiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029 (India); Vani, V. C. [Department of Instrumentation and Applied Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012 (India); Lakshmi, R.; Kumar, Pratik, E-mail: email@example.com [Department of Cardiac-Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029 (India); Mandal, Susama R. [Department of Medical Physics Unit IRCH, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi 110029 (India)
Purpose: Composition of the coronary artery plaque is known to have critical role in heart attack. While calcified plaque can easily be diagnosed by conventional CT, it fails to distinguish between fibrous and lipid rich plaques. In the present paper, the authors discuss the experimental techniques and obtain a numerical algorithm by which the electron density (ρ{sub e}) and the effective atomic number (Z{sub eff}) can be obtained from the dual energy computed tomography (DECT) data. The idea is to use this inversion method to characterize and distinguish between the lipid and fibrous coronary artery plaques. Methods: For the purpose of calibration of the CT machine, the authors prepare aqueous samples whose calculated values of (ρ{sub e}, Z{sub eff}) lie in the range of (2.65 × 10{sup 23} ≤ ρ{sub e} ≤ 3.64 × 10{sup 23}/cm{sup 3}) and (6.80 ≤ Z{sub eff} ≤ 8.90). The authors fill the phantom with these known samples and experimentally determine HU(V{sub 1}) and HU(V{sub 2}), with V{sub 1},V{sub 2} = 100 and 140 kVp, for the same pixels and thus determine the coefficients of inversion that allow us to determine (ρ{sub e}, Z{sub eff}) from the DECT data. The HU(100) and HU(140) for the coronary artery plaque are obtained by filling the channel of the coronary artery with a viscous solution of methyl cellulose in water, containing 2% contrast. These (ρ{sub e}, Z{sub eff}) values of the coronary artery plaque are used for their characterization on the basis of theoretical models of atomic compositions of the plaque materials. These results are compared with histopathological report. Results: The authors find that the calibration gives ρ{sub e} with an accuracy of ±3.5% while Z{sub eff} is found within ±1% of the actual value, the confidence being 95%. The HU(100) and HU(140) are found to be considerably different for the same plaque at the same position and there is a linear trend between these two HU values. It is noted that pure lipid type plaques
Molecular MRI of Atherosclerotic lesions
Adel, Brigit den
This thesis describes the use of MRI contrast agents and vessel wall parameters to image different stages of atherosclerosis. Chapter 2 summerizes different MRI contrast agents targeted towards vulnerable plaques that have been presented in literature. Chapter 3 illustrates accumulation of paramagn
Correlação da composição de placas à histologia virtual com proteína C-reativa Correlation between plaque composition as assessed by virtual histology and C-reactive protein
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Dimytri Alexandre de Alvim Siqueira
Full Text Available FUNDAMENTOS: Estudos prévios demonstram que o principal determinante de vulnerabilidade da placa aterosclerótica é a sua composição. Recentemente, diversos métodos de imagens e marcadores laboratoriais têm sido investigados visando identificar lesões vulneráveis. O ultrassom com Histologia Virtual® (HV permite a diferenciação e quantificação dos componentes da placa. Por sua vez, a proteína C-reativa (PCR é apontada como importante preditor de eventos adversos. A correlação entre este marcador e as características da placa não é bem estabelecida. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a constituição da lesão culpada em pacientes com síndrome coronária aguda (SCA - conforme caracterizada pela HV - e investigar a relação dos componentes da placa com o marcador inflamatório PCR. MÉTODOS: Cinquenta e dois pacientes com SCA e com indicação de intervenção coronária percutânea foram submetidos a dosagens de PCR de alta sensibilidade antes e 24 horas após a ICP. Análise por ultrassom HV da lesão-alvo foi realizada antes da ICP. RESULTADOS: A média de idade foi de 55,3 ± 4,9 anos, sendo 76,9% homens, 67,3% hipertensos e 30,8% diabéticos. A área luminal mínima foi de 3,9 ± 1,3 mm², e a carga de placa de 69 ± 11,3%. Os componentes da placa foram assim identificados: fibrótico (59,6 ± 15,8%, fibrolipídico (7,6 ± 8,2%, cálcio (12,1 ± 9,2%, necrótico (20,7 ± 12,7%. Não observamos correlação entre os níveis basais de PCR ou a variação dentre os valores pré e pós-ICP com os componentes da placa. CONCLUSÃO: Neste estudo, a composição das placas pela HV foi predominantemente fibrótica, com alto conteúdo necrótico. Não foi encontrada correlação entre a PCR e os componentes da lesão culpada em pacientes com SCA.BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that coronary plaque composition plays a pivotal role in plaque instability, and imaging modalities and serum biomarkers have been investigated to identify
Spectroscopy to improve identification of vulnerable plaques in cardiovascular disease.
Bruggink, Janneke L M; Meerwaldt, Robbert; van Dam, Gooitzen M; Lefrandt, Joop D; Slart, Riemer H J A; Tio, René A; Smit, Andries J; Zeebregts, Clark J
Many apparent healthy persons die from cardiovascular disease, despite major advances in prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors are able to predict cardiovascular events in the long run, but fail to assess current disease activity or nearby cardiovascular events. There is a clear relation between the occurrence of cardiovascular events and the presence of so-called vulnerable plaques. These vulnerable plaques are characterized by active inflammation, a thin cap and a large lipid pool. Spectroscopy is an optical imaging technique which depicts the interaction between light and tissues, and thereby shows the biochemical composition of tissues. In recent years, impressive advances have been made in spectroscopy technology and intravascular spectroscopy is able to assess the composition of plaques of interest and thereby to identify and actually quantify plaque vulnerability. This review summarizes the current evidence for spectroscopy as a measure of plaque vulnerability and discusses the potential role of intravascular spectroscopic imaging techniques.
Micro-CT imaging of Randall's plaques.
Williams, James C; Lingeman, James E; Coe, Fredric L; Worcester, Elaine M; Evan, Andrew P
Micro-computed tomographic imaging (micro-CT) provides unprecedented information on stone structure and mineral composition. High-resolution micro-CT even allows visualization of the lumens of tubule and/or vessels within Randall's plaque, on stones or in papillary biopsies, thus giving a non-destructive way to study these sites of stone adhesion. This paper also shows an example of a stone growing on a different anchoring mechanism: a mineral plug within the lumen of a Bellini duct (BD plug). Micro-CT shows striking structural differences between stones that have grown on Randall's plaque and those that have grown on BD plugs. Thus, Randall's plaque can be distinguished by micro-CT, and this non-destructive method shows great promise in helping to elucidate the different mechanisms by which small stones are retained in the kidney during the development of nephrolithiasis. PMID:25096802
Gold nanoparticles based imaging technique and drug delivery for the detection and treatment of atherosclerotic vascular disease
Ankri, Rinat; Leshem-Lev, Dorit; Lev, Eli I.; Motiei, Menachem; Hochhauser, Edith; Fixler, Dror
In our study we aim to develop a new, simple and non-invasive method to detect and to treat atherosclerosis. We use gold nanoparticles (GNPs) combined with the diffusion reflection (DR) method to demonstrate the detection of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques. Our method is based on the fact that macrophages are a major component in the vulnerable plaque and are able to uptake metal nanoparticles that can be discovered by the DR system. Moreover, it is well known that high density lipoprotein (HDL) reduces ASVD by inhibiting pro-inflammatory factors, enabling the specific treatment of atherosclerosis.
Modeling plaque fissuring and dissection during balloon angioplasty intervention.
Gasser, T Christian; Holzapfel, Gerhard A
Balloon angioplasty intervention is traumatic to arterial tissue. Fracture mechanisms such as plaque fissuring and/or dissection occur and constitute major contributions to the lumen enlargement. However, these types of mechanically-based traumatization of arterial tissue are also contributing factors to both acute procedural complications and chronic restenosis of the treatment site. We propose physical and finite element models, which are generally useable to trace fissuring and/or dissection in atherosclerotic plaques during balloon angioplasty interventions. The arterial wall is described as an anisotropic, heterogeneous, highly deformable, nearly incompressible body, whereas tissue failure is captured by a strong discontinuity kinematics and a novel cohesive zone model. The numerical implementation is based on the partition of unity finite element method and the interface element method. The later is used to link together meshes of the different tissue components. The balloon angioplasty-based failure mechanisms are numerically studied in 3D by means of an atherosclerotic-prone human external iliac artery, with a type V lesion. Image-based 3D geometry is generated and tissue-specific material properties are considered. Numerical results show that in a primary phase the plaque fissures at both shoulders of the fibrous cap and stops at the lamina elastica interna. In a secondary phase, local dissections between the intima and the media develop at the fibrous cap location with the smallest thickness. The predicted results indicate that plaque fissuring and dissection cause localized mechanical trauma, but prevent the main portion of the stenosis from high stress, and hence from continuous tissue damage.
Curcumin as a novel plaque stabilizing agent in prevention of acute coronary syndrome
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Jamal Shamsara
Full Text Available "nCurcumin (diferuloylmethane is an active component of the spice turmeric and has been linked with anti-inflammatory and chemopreventive activities. The present hypothesis explained the involvement of anti-inflammatory effects of crcumin in prevention of acute coronary syndromes (ACS (i.e. unstable angina and myocardial infarction. ACS is the leading cause of death in both developed and developing countries. Coronary events often result from thrombi that form because of physical disruption of the atherosclerotic plaque. However, despite lipid lowing therapy with statins, significant numbers of cardiovascular events continue to occur indicating the need for additional agents for atherosclerosis management. We proposed that curcumin therapy can stabilize vulnerable 'rupture-prone' plaques by normalizing plaque properties. Thus, co-administration of curcumin along with other present options may prove to be a useful and potent natural plaque stabilizing approach in the prevention of ACS.
慢性牙周炎龈下菌斑和唾液微生物群落分析%The microbiotal composition of subgingival plaque and saliva in chronic periodontitis
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
刘莹; 吴明桃; 陈慧; 庞小燕; 赵立平; 唐子圣
AIM: To detect and analyze the microbiotal composition and relationship of subgingival plaque and saliva by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis ( DCCE) in chronic periodontitis patients.METHODS : Thirtyfour chronic periodontitis patients with no systematic disease were enrolled.Their subgingival plaque and saliva samples were collected to detect the microbiological profiles.V3 region of the 16S rRNA gene of all bactena was amplified by PCR and separated by DGCE.The band pattems werre digitized by Image J, a digitize software.The matrix from it could be used to analyze the relationship between plaque and saliva by Principal Component Analysis ( PCA) , Cluster Analysis and Ptutial Least Squares ( PLS).RESULTS : DGGE map of suvgingival plaque showed that there were 11 to 28 bands.with a mean of 19 bands.while in saliva samples there were 11 to 24 bands, with a mean of 17 bands.PCA figures indicated that relatively significant difference existed between subgingival plaque and saliva samples ( separated clustering).In the Cluster Analysis diagram, five clusters were found in subgingival plaque and saliva samples, with 2 in subgingival plaque samples and 3 in saliva aamples, representing high similarity in the same aample class, but low aiminarity in different classes.PLS analysis showed that clustering could be observed in subgingival plaque and saliva samples and significant difference existed between subgingival plaque and saliva.CONCLUSION : DGGE, a fingerprint technique, is an accurate method to visualize whole microbial communities.Specifically, the composition and diversity of the microbial population can be determined by this technique.By DGGE technique, we found that microbial community of subgingival plaque is of obvious difference with saliva in chronic periodontitis patients.%目的:运用DGGE技术检测慢性牙周炎龈下菌斑和唾液微生物群落结构,分析其菌群之间的关系.方法:选取34名慢性牙周炎志愿者,分别采集龈下�
Study on Relationship Between Intima Medial Thickness and the Plaque in Stroke Patients on Carotid Artery Sonography
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The carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) is an early structural marker of the atherosclerotic process and is the only non-invasive test that is currently recommended by the American Heart Association for evaluation of the risk. However, use of this parameter has a limitation because it assumes uniform thickness throughout the blood vessel, whereas atherosclerosis is a focal phenomenon that is confined to intima. In fact, plaque can be found along the atherosclerotic blood vessels even though its value is unknown. The aim of this study is to analyze the carotid plaque and IMT in the stroke patients. We investigated the patients with ischemic stroke, who were admitted to the department of neurology at the Stroke Special Hospital from January to March 2008. After the carotid IMT and plaque were assessed by B-mode ultrasonography, IMT and carotid plaque to risk variables (age, sex) were analyzed. The distribution of CCA IMT was significantly different in terms of age (p = 0.004). Likewise, the distribution of carotid plaque was also significantly different in terms of age (p = 0.006). Carotid plaque was 69 and 92% in normal and abnormal CCA IMTs respectively. The results showed that the CCA IMT was closely associated with carotid plaque.
Dental plaque identification at home
... your teeth. Plaque is the major cause of tooth decay and gum disease ( gingivitis ). It is hard to ... the plaque is not removed, it can cause tooth decay or cause the gums to bleed easily (gingivitis) ...
Association between epicardial fat volume and coronary plaques diagnosed by multislice computed tomography
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José A. Morán Quijada
Full Text Available Introduction: Coronary atherosclerotic disease is a major cause of death in Cuba and elsewhere. The volume of epicardial fat is considered a new cardiovascular risk factor because of its association with coronary atherogenesis.Objective: To determine, by multislice computed tomography, the association between epicardial fat volume and the presence of coronary atherosclerotic plaques.Method: A descriptive study was conducted with a universe of 130 patients with chest pain suggestive of ischemic heart disease, of which 117 were selected by opinion sampling. These patients underwent a calcium score study, a coronary angiography and a measurement of the epicardial fat volume.Results: Male patients predominated (54.7% and those aged 60-69 years (32.5%. A high volume of epicardial fat was found in 51.3% of patients, affecting 52.8% of women; 78.9% of patients with a calcium score between 100 and 399 UH had a high volume of epicardial fat, just as 71.2% of those with plaques and 100% of those with 4 or 5 plaques; 41% of patients had various types of plaque, which were mainly located in the anterior descending artery (88.1%.Conclusions: The measurement of the volume of epicardial fat is a useful tool to estimate the presence of coronary disease. When it was high, it was associated with older age, female gender and the presence of a higher calcium score, more plaques, more injuries and a greater involvement of the anterior descending artery.
Cystatin C is Associated With Plaque Phenotype and Plaque Burden
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Yufeng Wen
Full Text Available Background/Aims: The relationship between carotid artery plaque burden, phenotype and serum cystatin C at normal and impaired renal function is still unclear. Methods: Demographic characteristics, carotid ultrasonography and other relevant information of 1,477 patients were collected. The association of carotid artery plaque burden, plaque phenotype with serum cystatin C was evaluated by strategy analysis based on renal function. Results: Serum cystatin C (OR=2.05, 95% CI: 1.83-2.29, POR=1.60, 95%CI: 1.43-1.78, POR=1.21, 95%CI: 1.10-1.32, P Conclusion: In normal renal function, serum cystatin C may confer stability of plaques. In mildly impaired renal function, serum cystatin C is a risk predictor of plaques. In normal renal function circumstances, serum cystatin C may benefit to the stability of plaques. In mild impaired renal function circumstances, serum cystatin C are a risk predictors of plaques.
An assessment of the vulnerability of carotid plaques: a comparative study between intraplaque neovascularization and plaque echogenicity
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Carotid plaque echolucency as detected by Color Doppler ultrasonography (CDUS) has been used as a potential marker of plaque vulnerability. However, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has recently been shown to be a valuable method to evaluate the vulnerability and neovascularization within carotid atherosclerotic plaques. The aim of this study was to compare CEUS and CDUS in the assessment of plaque vulnerability using transcranial color Doppler (TCD) monitoring of microembolic signals (MES) as a reference technique. A total of 46 subjects with arterial stenosis (≥ 50%) underwent a carotid duplex ultrasound, TCD monitoring of MES and CEUS (SonoVue doses of 2.0 mL) within a span of 3 days. The agreement between the CEUS, CDUS, and MES findings was assessed with a chi-square test. A p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Neovascularization was observed in 30 lesions (44.4%). The vascular risk factors for stroke were similar and there were no age or gender differences between the 2 groups. Using CEUS, MES were identified in 2 patients (12.5%) within class 1 (non-neovascularization) as opposed to 15 patients (50.0%) within class 2 (neovascularization) (p = 0.023). CDUS revealed no significant differences in the appearance of the MES between the 2 groups (hyperechoic and hypoechoic) (p = 0.237). This study provides preliminary evidence to suggest that intraplaque neovascularization detected by CEUS is associated with the presence of MESs, where as plaque echogenicity on traditional CDUS does not. These findings argue that CEUS may better identify high-risk plaques
Anti-atherosclerotic effects of konjac
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Hidekatsu Yanai
Full Text Available Definition: The Konjac plant comes from the genus Amorphophallus. Japanese food uses Konjac cake. Konjac contains almost no calories and a great amount of dietary fiber. Here, we reviewed possible anti-atherosclerotic effects of konjac, using the search Pubmed ®. Konjac ingestion is likely beneficially associated with obesity, blood pressure, lipid and glucose metabolism. However, evidence is lacking on the relationship between konjac ingestion and development of atherosclerotic diseases. To more fully understand the anti-atherosclerotic effects of konjac, future studies, preferably with larger numbers of subjects, will be performed.
Monte Carlo dosimetry of I-125 ophthalmic plaques
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I-125 seeds, mounted on the surface of gold-alloy plaques (1.0 to 2.0 cm in diameter), are used to treat intraocular malignancies. Currently available dose-computation algorithms ignore the perturbing influence of the plaque, assuming the seeds to be immersed in an infinite, homogeneous medium. The authors used a theoretical but physically and geometrically realistic approach, the Monte Carlo method, to calculate the absorbed dose in water arising from I-125 seeds backed by ophthalmic plaques. Preliminary results indicate that the plaque enhances dose by 2% very close to the seed and reduces dose by 4% to 7% at distances beyond 1 cm. Results are presented for various plaque dimensions, alloy compositions, and I-125 seed types in current clinical use
Optimization of the K-edge imaging for vulnerable plaques using gold nanoparticles and energy-resolved photon counting detectors: a simulation study
Alivov, Yahya; Baturin, Pavlo; Le, Huy Q.; Ducote, Justin; Molloi, Sabee
We investigated the effect of different imaging parameters such as dose, beam energy, energy resolution, and number of energy bins on image quality of K-edge spectral computed tomography (CT) of gold nanoparticles (GNP) accumulated in an atherosclerotic plaque. Maximum likelihood technique was employed to estimate the concentration of GNP, which served as a targeted intravenous contrast material intended to detect the degree of plaque's inflammation. The simulations studies used a single slic...
Abolished synthesis of cholic acid reduces atherosclerotic development in apolipoprotein E knockout mice[S
Slätis, Katharina; Gåfvels, Mats; Kannisto, Kristina; Ovchinnikova, Olga; Paulsson-Berne, Gabrielle; Parini, Paolo; Jiang, Zhao-Yan; Eggertsen, Gösta
To investigate the effects of abolished cholic acid (CA) synthesis in the ApoE knockout model [apolipoprotein E (apoE) KO],a double-knockout (DKO) mouse model was created by crossbreeding Cyp8b1 knockout mice (Cyp8b1 KO), unable to synthesize the primary bile acid CA, with apoE KO mice. After 5 months of cholesterol feeding, the development of atherosclerotic plaques in the proximal aorta was 50% less in the DKO mice compared with the apoE KO mice. This effect was associated with reduced inte...
Feasibility of simultaneous PET/MR in diet-induced atherosclerotic minipig
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Pedersen, Sune F; Ludvigsen, Trine P; Johannesen, Helle H;
glycolysis as given by standardized uptake values (SUV). Ex vivo en face evaluation of aortas from an atherosclerotic animal illustrated plaque distribution macroscopically, compared to a lean control animal. Although T2-TSE weighted imaging was most consistent, no one MRI sequence was preferable...... and superior to another for visualization and identification of the abdominal aorta. We found poor correlation between SUVs obtained from 10 and 20 minutes of reconstructed PET emission data. This can most likely be ascribed to intestinal movement. In conclusion multisequence MRI is recommended for optimal...
Histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of ruptured atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysm wall
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Tanasković Irena
Full Text Available Background/Aim. The main complication of the atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurism (AAA is her rupture that begins with lesion in intima and rupture. The purpose of this work was to determine immunocytochemical and morphofunctional characteristics of the cells in aortic wall in ruptured atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysm. Method. During the course of this study, 20 samples of atherosclerotic AAA were analyzed, all of them obtained during authopsy. The samples were fixed in 4% formalin and embedded in paraffin. Sections of 5 μm thickness were stained histochemically (of Heidenhain azan stain and Periodic acid Schiff - PAS stain and immunocytochemically using a DAKO LSAB+/HRP technique to identify α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA, vimentin, myosin heavy chains (MHC, desmin, S-100 protein, CD45 and CD68 (DAKO specification. Results. The results of our study showed that ruptured atherosclerotic AAA is characterized by a complete absence of endothelial cells, the disruption of basal membrane and internal elastic lamina, as well as a presence of the remains of hypocellular complicated atherosclerotic lesion in intima. On the plaque margins, as well as in the media, smooth muscle cells (SMCs are present, which express a α-SMA and vimentin (but without MHC or desmin expression, as well as leukocyte infiltration, and a large number of foam cells. Some of the foam cells show a CD68-immunoreactivity, while the others show vimentin- and S-100 protein-immunoreactivity. Media is thinned out with a disorganized elastic lamellas, while adventitia is characterized by inflammatory inflitrate (infection. Conclusion. Rupture of aneurysm occurs from the primary intimal disruption, which spreads into thinned out media and adventitia. Rupture is caused by unstable atherom, hypocellularity, loss of contractile characteristics of smooth muscle cells in intima and media, neovascularization of the media, as well as by the activity of the macrophages in the
Maintenance of Macrophage Redox Status by ChREBP Limits Inflammation and Apoptosis and Protects against Advanced Atherosclerotic Lesion Formation
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Vincent Sarrazy
Full Text Available Enhanced glucose utilization can be visualized in atherosclerotic lesions and may reflect a high glycolytic rate in lesional macrophages, but its causative role in plaque progression remains unclear. We observe that the activity of the carbohydrate-responsive element binding protein ChREBP is rapidly downregulated upon TLR4 activation in macrophages. ChREBP inactivation refocuses cellular metabolism to a high redox state favoring enhanced inflammatory responses after TLR4 activation and increased cell death after TLR4 activation or oxidized LDL loading. Targeted deletion of ChREBP in bone marrow cells resulted in accelerated atherosclerosis progression in Ldlr−/− mice with increased monocytosis, lesional macrophage accumulation, and plaque necrosis. Thus, ChREBP-dependent macrophage metabolic reprogramming hinders plaque progression and establishes a causative role for leukocyte glucose metabolism in atherosclerosis.
Deletion of gtfC of Streptococcus mutans has no influence on the composition of a mixed-species in vitro biofilm model of supragingival plaque.
Van Der Ploeg, Jan R; Guggenheim, Bernhard
Glucosyltransferases from Streptococcus mutans are thought to play an important role in bacterial adherence to the tooth surface. The goal of the present study was to determine the effect of the deletion of the gtfC gene, which encodes a glucosyltransferase that catalyses primarily the formation of insoluble glucan (mutan), on colonization of S. mutans in a mixed-species biofilm model of supragingival plaque. A gtfC deletion mutant of S. mutans UA159 grew poorly in biofilms on a polystyrene surface in Todd-Hewitt medium containing sucrose, but biofilm formation in the semi-defined fluid universal medium (FUM) was not affected. The S. mutans gtfC mutant colonized with the same efficiency as the wild-type strain when grown together with five other species in a mixed-species biofilm on hydroxyapatite in a mixture of FUM and saliva with pulses of sucrose and showed the same ability to demineralize enamel in vitro. Colonization of mutant and wild-type strains was also equal in an association experiment in specific-pathogen-free rats. However, the gtfC mutant gave rise to more dentinal fissure lesions and smooth surface caries than the wild-type strain; this could be caused by a change in diffusion properties as a result of to the lack of mutan. PMID:15458503
A computer-simulation study on the effects of MRI voxel dimensions on carotid plaque lipid-core and fibrous cap segmentation and stress modeling
Nieuwstadt, H.A.; Kassar, Z.A.M.; Van der Lugt, A.; Breeuwer, M.; Van der Steen, A.F.W.; Wentzel, J.J.; Gijsen, F.J.H.
Background The benefits of a decreased slice thickness and/or in-plane voxel size in carotid MRI for atherosclerotic plaque component quantification accuracy and biomechanical peak cap stress analysis have not yet been investigated in detail because of practical limitations. Methods In order to p
Intravascular photoacoustic detection of vulnerable plaque based on constituent selected imaging
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Zhang Jian; Xing Da, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [MOE Key Laboratory of Laser Life Science and Institute of Laser Life Science, College of Biophotonics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510631 (China)
Atherosclerosis, a disease of the large arteries, is the primary cause of heart disease and stroke. Over decades, atherosclerosis is characterized by thickening of the walls of the arteries, only advanced atherosclerotic disease could be observed. Photoacoustic imaging is a hybrid imaging technique that combines the advantages of high spatial resolution of ultrasound with contrast of optical absorption. In this paper, we present an intravascular photoacoustic (IVPA) imaging system to characterize vulnerable plaques by using the optical absorption contrast between different constituents. Epidemiological studies have revealed several important plaque constituents associated with early atherosclerosis, such as macrophage, cholesterol, lipid, calcification, and so on. We chose a section of lipid rich atherosclerosis artery and a section of normal artery as the phantom. Two IVPA images of them are given to show the difference between sick and normal. As a new method of detecting vulnerable plaque, IVPA constituents imaging will provide more details for diagnosis that offer an enticing prospect in early detecting of atherosclerosis.
Impact of different exercise training modalities on the coronary collateral circulation and plaque composition in patients with significant coronary artery disease (EXCITE trial: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
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Uhlemann Madlen
Full Text Available Abstract Background Exercise training (ET in addition to optimal medical therapy (OMT in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD has been demonstrated to be superior to percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI with respect to the composite endpoint of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, revascularization and hospitalization due to worsening of angina. One mechanism leading to this superiority discussed in the literature is the increase in coronary collateral blood flow due to ET. Until now, data demonstrating the positive effect of ET on the collateral blood flow and the functional capacity of the coronary collateral circulation are still lacking. Methods/design The EXCITE trial is a three-armed randomized, prospective, single-center, open-label, controlled study enrolling 60 patients with stable CAD and at least one significant coronary stenosis (fractional flow reserve ≤0.75. The study is designed to compare the influence and efficacy of two different 4-week ET programs [high-intensity interval trainings (IT versus moderate-intensity exercise training (MT in addition to OMT] versus OMT only on collateral blood flow (CBF. The primary efficacy endpoint is the change of the CBF of the target vessel after 4 weeks as assessed by coronary catheterization with a pressure wire during interruption of the antegrade flow of the target vessel by balloon occlusion. Secondary endpoints include the change in plaque composition as assessed by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS after 4 weeks, myocardial perfusion as analyzed in MRI after 4 weeks and 12 months, peak oxygen uptake (V02 peak, change in endothelial function and biomarkers after 4 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months. The safety endpoint addresses major adverse cardiovascular events (death from cardiovascular cause, myocardial infarction, stroke, TIA, target vessel revascularization or hospitalization after 12 months. Discussion The trial investigates whether ET for 4 weeks increases the CBF in
Macrophage p53 controls macrophage death in atherosclerotic lesions of apolipoprotein E deficient mice
Boesten, L.S.M.; Zadelaar, A.S.M.; Nieuwkoop, A. van; Hu, L.; Teunisse, A.F.A.S.; Jochemsen, A.G.; Evers, B.; Water, B. van de; Gijbels, M.J.J.; Vlijmen, B.J.M. van; Havekes, L.M.; Winther, M.P.J. de
The cellular composition of atherosclerotic lesions is determined by many factors including cell infiltration, proliferation and cell death. Tumor suppressor gene p53 has been shown to regulate both cell proliferation and cell death in many cell types. In the present study, we investigated the role
Detection of vulnerable plaques rather than the culprit lesions in patients with acute coronary syndrome using virtual histology intravascular ultrasound imaging
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QIAN Ju-ying
@@ Pathology and postmortem studies have reported that the most important mechanism of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is the rupture of a vulnerable plaque and subsequent thrombus formation. Such events commonly arise from the non-flow limiting atherosclerotic lesions which are prone to rupture. Thin-cap fibroatheromas (TCFA) are the most common type of vulnerable plaque. As the widely used technique for the detection of coronary arterial diseases, coronary angiography has intrinsic limitations since it only portrays the contrast agent-filled contour of the lumen and provides little information on the vessel wall and even less the characteristics of the plaques.
Erythrocyte Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines (DARC):diagnostic and therapeutic implications in atherosclerotic Cardiovascular disease
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Stavros APOSTOLAKIS; Georgios K CHALIKIAS; Dimitrios N TZIAKAS; Stavros KONSTANTINIDES
Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease.The last three decades efforts have been made to elucidate the biochemical pathways that are implicated in the process of atherogenesis and plaque development.Chemokines are crucial mediators in every step of this process.Additionally.cellular components of the peripheral blood have been proved important mediators in the formation and progression of atherosclerotic lesions.However,until recently data were mostly focusing on leukocytes and platelets.Erythrocytes were considered unreceptive bystanders and limited data supported their importance in the progression and destabilization of the atherosclerotic plaque.Recently erythrocytes, through their Duffy antigen receptor for chemokines(DARC),have been proposed as appealing regulators of chemokine-induced pathways.Dissimilar to every other chemokine receptor DARC possesses high affinity for severalligands from both CC and CXC chemokine sub-families.Moreover,DARC is not coupled to a G-protein or any other intracellular signalling system;thus it is incapable of generating second messages.The exact biochemical role of erythrocyte DARC remains to be determined.It is however challenging the fact that DARC is a regulator of almost every CC and CXC chemokine ligand and therefore DARC antagonism could efiectively block the complex pre-inflammatory chemokine network.In the present review we intent to provid recent evidence supporting the role of erythrocytes in atherosclerosis focusing on the erythrocyte-chemokine interaction through the Duffy antigen system.
Effect of Watermarking on Diagnostic Preservation of Atherosclerotic Ultrasound Video in Stroke Telemedicine.
Dey, Nilanjan; Bose, Soumyo; Das, Achintya; Chaudhuri, Sheli Sinha; Saba, Luca; Shafique, Shoaib; Nicolaides, Andrew; Suri, Jasjit S
Embedding of diagnostic and health care information requires secure encryption and watermarking. This research paper presents a comprehensive study for the behavior of some well established watermarking algorithms in frequency domain for the preservation of stroke-based diagnostic parameters. Two different sets of watermarking algorithms namely: two correlation-based (binary logo hiding) and two singular value decomposition (SVD)-based (gray logo hiding) watermarking algorithms are used for embedding ownership logo. The diagnostic parameters in atherosclerotic plaque ultrasound video are namely: (a) bulb identification and recognition which consists of identifying the bulb edge points in far and near carotid walls; (b) carotid bulb diameter; and (c) carotid lumen thickness all along the carotid artery. The tested data set consists of carotid atherosclerotic movies taken under IRB protocol from University of Indiana Hospital, USA-AtheroPoint™ (Roseville, CA, USA) joint pilot study. ROC (receiver operating characteristic) analysis was performed on the bulb detection process that showed an accuracy and sensitivity of 100 % each, respectively. The diagnostic preservation (DPsystem) for SVD-based approach was above 99 % with PSNR (Peak signal-to-noise ratio) above 41, ensuring the retention of diagnostic parameter devalorization as an effect of watermarking. Thus, the fully automated proposed system proved to be an efficient method for watermarking the atherosclerotic ultrasound video for stroke application.
Towards coronary plaque imaging using simultaneous PET-MR: a simulation study
Petibon, Y.; El Fakhri, G.; Nezafat, R.; Johnson, N.; Brady, T.; Ouyang, J.
Coronary atherosclerotic plaque rupture is the main cause of myocardial infarction and the leading killer in the US. Inflammation is a known bio-marker of plaque vulnerability and can be assessed non-invasively using fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography imaging (FDG-PET). However, cardiac and respiratory motion of the heart makes PET detection of coronary plaque very challenging. Fat surrounding coronary arteries allows the use of MRI to track plaque motion during simultaneous PET-MR examination. In this study, we proposed and assessed the performance of a fat-MR based coronary motion correction technique for improved FDG-PET coronary plaque imaging in simultaneous PET-MR. The proposed methods were evaluated in a realistic four-dimensional PET-MR simulation study obtained by combining patient water-fat separated MRI and XCAT anthropomorphic phantom. Five small lesions were digitally inserted inside the patients coronary vessels to mimic coronary atherosclerotic plaques. The heart of the XCAT phantom was digitally replaced with the patient's heart. Motion-dependent activity distributions, attenuation maps, and fat-MR volumes of the heart, were generated using the XCAT cardiac and respiratory motion fields. A full Monte Carlo simulation using Siemens mMR's geometry was performed for each motion phase. Cardiac/respiratory motion fields were estimated using non-rigid registration of the transformed fat-MR volumes and incorporated directly into the system matrix of PET reconstruction along with motion-dependent attenuation maps. The proposed motion correction method was compared to conventional PET reconstruction techniques such as no motion correction, cardiac gating, and dual cardiac-respiratory gating. Compared to uncorrected reconstructions, fat-MR based motion compensation yielded an average improvement of plaque-to-background contrast of 29.6%, 43.7%, 57.2%, and 70.6% for true plaque-to-blood ratios of 10, 15, 20 and 25:1, respectively. Channelized
New quantification methods for carotid intra-plaque neovascularization using contrast-enhanced ultrasound.
Akkus, Zeynettin; Hoogi, Assaf; Renaud, Guillaume; van den Oord, Stijn C H; Ten Kate, Gerrit L; Schinkel, Arend F L; Adam, Dan; de Jong, Nico; van der Steen, Antonius F W; Bosch, Johan G
As carotid intra-plaque neovascularization (IPN) is linked to progressive atherosclerotic disease and plaque vulnerability, its accurate quantification might allow early detection of plaque vulnerability. We therefore developed several new quantitative methods for analyzing IPN perfusion and structure. From our analyses, we derived six quantitative parameters-IPN surface area (IPNSA), IPN surface ratio (IPNSR), plaque mean intensity, plaque-to-lumen enhancement ratio, mean plaque contrast percentage and number of micro-vessels (MVN)-and compared these with visual grading of IPN by two independent physicians. A total of 45 carotid arteries with symptomatic stenosis in 23 patients were analyzed. IPNSA (correlation r = 0.719), IPNSR (r = 0.538) and MVN (r = 0.484) were found to be significantly correlated with visual scoring (p < 0.01). IPNSA was the best match to visual scoring. These results indicate that IPNSA, IPNSR and MVN may have the potential to replace qualitative visual scoring and to measure the degree of carotid IPN. PMID:24161799
Lipid peroxidation-derived etheno-DNA adducts in human atherosclerotic lesions
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Nair, Jagadeesan [Division of Toxicology and Cancer Risk Factors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, D-69120 Heidelberg (Germany); De Flora, Silvio [Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via A. Pastore 1, I-16132 Genoa (Italy); Izzotti, Alberto [Department of Health Sciences, University of Genoa, Via A. Pastore 1, I-16132 Genoa (Italy); Bartsch, Helmut [Division of Toxicology and Cancer Risk Factors, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, D-69120 Heidelberg (Germany)]. E-mail: email@example.com
Atherosclerosis and cancer are characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation and share common risk factors, such as cigarette smoking, dietary habits and ageing. Growth of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in atherosclerotic plaques may result from DNA damage, caused either by exogenous mutagens or by agents endogenously generated due to oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation (LPO). Hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE), a major LPO product, binds covalently to cellular DNA to form the exocyclic etheno-DNA-base adducts, 1,N {sup 6}-ethenodeoxyadenine ({epsilon}dA) and 3,N {sup 4}-ethenodeoxycytosine ({epsilon}dC). By applying an ultrasensitive {sup 32}P-postlabeling-immunoaffinity method, {epsilon}dA and {epsilon}dC were quantified in abdominal aorta SMCs from 13 atherosclerotic patients and 3 non-smoking subjects without atherosclerotic lesions. The levels of etheno-adducts ranged for {epsilon}dA from 2.3 to 39.6/10{sup 8} dA and for {epsilon}dC from 10.7 to 157.7/10{sup 8} dC, with a high correlation between {epsilon}dA and {epsilon}dC (r = 0.84, P = 0.0001). Etheno-adduct levels were higher in atherosclerotic smokers than in ex-smokers for both {epsilon}dA (means 15.2 versus 7.3, P = 0.06) and {epsilon}dC (71.9 versus 51.6, not significant). {epsilon}dC levels were higher in either ex-smokers (P = 0.03) or smokers (P = 0.07) than in non-smokers. There was a poor correlation between either {epsilon}dA or {epsilon}dC and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine, whereas significant positive correlations were detected with the levels of several postlabeled bulky aromatic DNA adducts. In conclusion, two different types of DNA damage may be involved in atherosclerotic plaque formation and progression: (i) bulky aromatic compounds, to which aorta SMCs are chronically exposed in smokers, can either covalently bind to DNA, induce redox-cycling via quinone intermediates and/or activate local chronic inflammatory processes in the arterial wall; ii) this in turn leads to a self perpetuating
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance in carotid atherosclerotic disease
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Chen Huijun
Full Text Available Abstract Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory disease affecting many vascular beds. Disease progression leads to acute cardiovascular events such as myocardial infarction, stroke and death. The diseased carotid alone is responsible for one third of the 700,000 new or recurrent strokes occurring yearly in the United States. Imaging plays an important role in the management of atherosclerosis, and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR of the carotid vessel wall is one promising modality in the evaluation of patients with carotid atherosclerotic disease. Advances in carotid vessel wall CMR allow comprehensive assessment of morphology inside the wall, contributing substantial disease-specific information beyond luminal stenosis. Although carotid vessel wall CMR has not been widely used to screen for carotid atherosclerotic disease, many trials support its potential for this indication. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding carotid vessel wall CMR and its potential clinical application for management of carotid atherosclerotic disease.
[Atherosclerotic renal artery disease management update].
Meier, Pascal; Haesler, Erik; Teta, Daniel; Qanadli, Salah Dine; Burnier, Michel
In the case of atherosclerotic renal artery disease, the best conclusive results lie principally not in the degree of the stenosis but rather in the degree the renal parenchymal disease beyond the stenosis itself. These determining factors involve the controlling of the patients blood pressure, the improvement in the renal function and the beneficial results to the cardiovascular system. Besides the indispensable medical treatment, a revascularisation by angioplasty may be indicated. This procedure with or without vascular stent often allows satisfactory angiographic results. A treatment by surgical revascularisation is only recommended in the case of extensive atherosclerotic lesions of the aorta, complex lesions of the latter or an abdominal aortic aneurism. Although the frequency of restenosis of angioplasty with stent remains extremely low, the risk of cholesterol emboli due to the diffuse atherosclerotic lesions of the abdominal aorta, must be considered at the time of each aortic catheterization. The therapeutic approach of atherosclerotic renal artery disease must be dictated by the whole cardiovascular risk factors and by the threat of target organs. The control of the blood pressure and the maintenance of the renal function must be integrated in the decisional algorithm as well as the possible risks in carrying out an eventual revascularisation procedure. Finally, the renal angioplasty should in numerous situations be integrated in the overall assumption of responsibility of the atherosclerotic vascular diseases, and should be part of the medical treatment. Several questions still do exist; at what moment an atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis should and e considered critical, and which procedure should be considered for which patient? The purpose of this review is to propose a decisional tool for individualized treatments in the light of results from randomized and controlled studies. PMID:18815087
Darbepoetin alpha reduces oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in atherosclerotic lesions of apo E deficient mice in experimental renal failure.
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Nicole Arend
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality is very important in patients with chronic renal failure. This occurs even in mild impairment of renal function and may be related to oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. The nephrectomized apo E knockout mouse is an accepted model for evaluating atherosclerosis in renal dysfunction. Erythropoietin derivates showed anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Therefore, this study evaluates the effects of Darbepoetin on markers of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in atherosclerotic lesions in apo E knockout mice with renal dysfunction. METHODS: Apo E knockout mice underwent unilateral (Unx, n = 20 or subtotal (Snx, n = 26 nephrectomy or sham operation (Sham, n = 16. Mice of each group were either treated with Darbepoetin or saline solution, a part of Snx mice received a tenfold higher dose of Darbepoetin. The aortic plaques were measured and morphologically characterized. Additional immunhistochemical analyses were performed on tissue samples taken from the heart and the aorta. RESULTS: Both Unx and Snx mice showed increased expression of markers of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. While aortic plaque size was not different, Snx mice showed advanced plaque stages when compared to Unx mice. Darbepoetin treatment elevated hematocrit and lowered Nitrotyrosin as one marker of oxidative stress, inflammation in heart and aorta, plaque stage and in the high dose even plaque cholesterol content. In contrast, there was no influence of Darbepoetin on aortic plaque size; high dose Darbepoetin treatment resulted in elevated renal serum parameters. CONCLUSION: Darbepoetin showed some protective cardiovascular effects irrespective of renal function, i.e. it improved plaque structure and reduced some signs of oxidative stress and chronic inflammation without affecting plaque size. Nevertheless, the dose dependent adverse effects must be considered as high Darbepoetin treatment
Chronic over-expression of heat shock protein 27 attenuates atherogenesis and enhances plaque remodeling: a combined histological and mechanical assessment of aortic lesions.
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Charles M Cuerrier
Full Text Available AIMS: Expression of Heat Shock Protein-27 (HSP27 is reduced in human coronary atherosclerosis. Over-expression of HSP27 is protective against the early formation of lesions in atherosclerosis-prone apoE(-/- mice (apoE(-/-HSP27(o/e - however, only in females. We now seek to determine if chronic HSP27 over-expression is protective in a model of advanced atherosclerosis in both male and female apoE(-/- mice. METHODS AND RESULTS: After 12 weeks on a high fat diet, serum HSP27 levels rose more than 16-fold in male and female apoE(-/-HSP27(o/e mice, although females had higher levels than males. Relative to apoE(-/- mice, female apoE(-/-HSP27(o/e mice showed reductions in aortic lesion area of 35% for en face and 30% for cross-sectional sinus tissue sections - with the same parameters reduced by 21% and 24% in male cohorts; respectively. Aortic plaques from apoE(-/-HSP27(o/e mice showed almost 50% reductions in the area occupied by cholesterol clefts and free cholesterol, with fewer macrophages and reduced apoptosis but greater intimal smooth muscle cell and collagen content. The analysis of the aortic mechanical properties showed increased vessel stiffness in apoE(-/-HSP27(o/e mice (41% in female, 34% in male compare to apoE(-/- counterparts. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic over-expression of HSP27 is atheroprotective in both sexes and coincides with reductions in lesion cholesterol accumulation as well as favorable plaque remodeling. These data provide new clues as to how HSP27 may improve not only the composition of atherosclerotic lesions but potentially their stability and resilience to plaque rupture.
99mTc-labelled anti-CD11b SPECT/CT imaging allows detection of plaque destabilization tightly linked to inflammation.
Liu, Guobing; Hu, Yan; Xiao, Jie; Li, Xiao; Li, Yanli; Tan, Hui; Zhao, Yanzhao; Cheng, Dengfeng; Shi, Hongcheng
It remains challenging to predict the risk of rupture for a specific atherosclerotic plaque timely, a thrombotic trigger tightly linked to inflammation. CD11b, is a biomarker abundant on inflammatory cells, not restricted to monocytes/macrophages. In this study, we fabricated a probe named as (99m)Tc-MAG3-anti-CD11b for detecting inflamed atherosclerotic plaques with single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT). The ApoE-knockout (ApoE(-/-)) mice were selected to establish animal models, with C57BL/6J mice used for control. A higher CD11b(+)-cell recruitment with higher CD11b expression and more serious whole-body inflammatory status were identified in ApoE(-/-) mice. The probe showed high in vitro affinity and specificity to the Raw-264.7 macrophages, as well as inflammatory cells infiltrated in atherosclerotic plaques, either in ex vivo fluorescent imaging or in in vivo micro-SPECT/CT imaging, which were confirmed by ex vivo planar gamma imaging, Oil-Red-O staining and CD11b-immunohistochemistry staining. A significant positive relationship was identified between the radioactivity intensity on SPECT/CT images and the CD11b expression in plaques. In summary, this study demonstrates the feasibility of anti-CD11b antibody mediated noninvasive SPECT/CT imaging of inflammatory leukocytes in murine atherosclerotic plaques. This imaging strategy can identify inflammation-rich plaques at risk for rupture and evaluate the effectiveness of inflammation-targeted therapies in atheroma. PMID:26877097
Atherosclerotic plaque burden in cocaine users with acute chest pain : Analysis by coronary computed tomography angiography
Ebersberger, Ullrich; Sudarski, Sonja; Schoepf, U. Joseph; Bamberg, Fabian; Tricarico, Francesco; Apfaltrer, Paul; Blanke, Philipp; Schindler, Andreas; Makowski, Marcus R.; Headden, Gary F.; Leber, Alexander W.; Hoffmann, Ellen; Vliegenthart, Rozemarijn
Chest pain associated with cocaine use represents an increasing problem in the emergency department (ED). Cocaine use has been linked to the acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). We used coronary computed tomography angiography (cCTA) to evaluate the prevalence, severi
Delayed (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose PET/CT imaging improves quantitation of atherosclerotic plaque inflammation
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Blomberg, Björn Alexander; Thomassen, Anders; Takx, Richard A P;
and thoracic aorta by calculating the blood-pool corrected maximum standardized uptake value (cSUVMAX). A target-to-background ratio (TBR) was calculated to determine the contrast resolution at 90 and 180 minutes. Furthermore, we assessed whether the acquisition time-point affected the relation between c...... potentially improve quantitation of vascular inflammation. METHODS AND RESULTS: 40 subjects were prospectively assessed by dual-time-point PET/CT imaging at approximately 90 and 180 minutes after (18)FDG administration. For both time-points, global uptake of (18)FDG was determined in the carotid arteries...
Inhibition of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 reduces complex coronary atherosclerotic plaque development
Wilensky, Robert L.; Shi, Yi; Mohler, Emile R; Hamamdzic, Damir; Burgert, Mark E.; Li, Jun; Postle, Anthony; Fenning, Robert S.; Bollinger, James G.; Hoffman, Bryan E; Pelchovitz, Daniel J.; Yang, Jisheng; Mirabile, Rosanna C; Webb, Christine L; Zhang, LeFeng
Increased lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) activity is associated with increased risk of cardiac events, but it is not known whether Lp-PLA2 is a causative agent. Here we show that selective inhibition of Lp-PLA2 with darapladib reduced development of advanced coronary atherosclerosis in diabetic and hypercholesterolemic swine. Darapladib markedly inhibited plasma and lesion Lp-PLA2 activity and reduced lesion lysophosphatidylcholine content. Analysis of coronary gene express...
Direct detection and quantification of transition metal ions in human atherosclerotic plaques
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Stadler, Nadina; Lindner, Robyn A; Davies, Michael Jonathan
OBJECTIVE: The involvement of transition metals in atherosclerosis is controversial. Some epidemiological studies have reported a relationship between iron (Fe) and cardiovascular disease, whereas others have not. Experimental studies have reported elevated levels of iron and copper (Cu) in disea...
The effect of aging on atherosclerotic plaque inflammation and molecular calcification: A PET CT imaging study
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Blomberg, Björn; Thomassen, Anders; Simonsen, Jane Angel;
cardiovascular risk factors were prospectively assessed by 18F-FDG (inflammation) and sodium 18F-fluoride (18F-NaF) (molecular calcification) PET CT imaging. Global aortic uptake of 18F-FDG and 18F-NaF was determined semi-quantitatively by calculating the average blood pool corrected standardized uptake value (cSUV......) [Mean SUVAORTA - Mean SUVBLOOD POOL]. Furthermore, the average maximum 18F-NaF cSUV was determined in the coronary arteries. Calculating regression and correlation coefficients summarized the data. Results: A quadratic relationship was observed between aging and aortic 18F-FDG avidity. A second order...
Positron emission tomography of the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque in man – a contemporary review
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Pedersen, Sune F; Hag, Anne Mette F; Klausen, Thomas L;
Atherosclerosis is the primary underlying cause of cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world today and is set to become the prevailing disease and major cause of death worldwide by 2020. In the 1950s surgical intervention was introduced ...
Relationship between arterial atheromatous plaque morphology and platelet-associated miR-126 and miR-223 expressions
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Heng-Song Tian; Qing-Guo Zhou; Fang Shao
Objective: To study the expression of miR-126 and miR-223 in platelet of rabbit arterial plaque models, and explore its correlation with plaque morphology. Methods: Rabbit arterial plaque models were established, peripheral blood of models and control animals was collected. Plaque morphologies were divided into type Ⅰ, type Ⅱ and type Ⅲ based on angiography plaque morphology and Ambrose method. Platelet isolation kit was applied to isolate and purify peripheral blood platelets, CD45 immunomagnetic beads were used to remove the residual white blood cells. The miRNAs of platelets was extracted by miRNA Isolation Kit, and expressions of miR-126 and miR-223 of the platelets samples were detected by Real-time PCR. The correlation between plaque morphology and platelet-associated miR-126 and miR-223 expressions were analyzed. Expressions of target gene VCAM-1 and P2Y12 receptors of miR-126 and miR-223 in the atherosclerosis plaque of rabbit model were detected by Western blot. Results: Relative expression levels of miR-126 and miR-223 in the model group were 0.27±0.10 and 0.71±0.14, respectively. Plaque morphology was divided into types Ⅰ, Ⅱ and Ⅲ;and miR-126 and miR-223 expression levels were detected in each type. Expression levels of miR-126 in each type were 0.42±0.07, 0.17±0.11 and 0.22±0.15, respectively; and expression levels of miR-223 in each type are 0.68±0.02, 0.57±0.06 and 0.88±0.10, respectively. Relative to the control group, miR-126 and miR-223 known target genes in VCAM-1 and P2Y12 receptors increased platelets in rabbit atherosclerotic plaque models (P<0.05). Conclusions:Relative to normal control animals, miR-126 and miR-223 platelets were reduced in the rabbit atherosclerotic plaque model group (P<0.05). In the type Ⅱ plaque morphology group, miR-126 was greatly reduced; and there is no significant correlation between miR-223 and plaque morphology.
Vascular morphologic and functional effect of endogenous androgens in an experimental atherosclerotic rabbits model
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Previous clinical and experimental studies suggest that androgens could have adverse, neutral or beneficial effect on atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations. Methods: an experimental, randomized controlled study in 40 New Zeland white male rabbits was realized. 20 rabbits underwent orchidectomy and 20 were fed with an atherogenic diet for 20 weeks. These were distributed in four groups: 1. non-castrated under normal diet, 2. Castrated under normal diet, 3. non-castrated under atherogenic diet, and 4. Castrated under atherogenic diet. Total cholesterol and free testosterone were measured. After euthanasia, arterial relaxation independent of endothelium was quantified in aorta, as well as the one depending on endothelium, in vitro, and histomorphometric analysis of thoracic aorta were made in order to quantify the atherosclerotic plaque formation. Results: animals that had a normal diet (n=20) had total cholesterol of 51.1 ± 8.5 mg/dl and those with atherogenic diet of 429.2 ± 262.0 mg/dl (p< 0.001). Testosterone levels in the non- castrated group were 2.1 ± 0.3 ng/ml and in the castrated were 0.8 ± 0.4 ng/ml (p= 0.024). In non-castrated rabbits the effect of hypercholesterolemia (366 ± 226.1 mg/dl) inducing atherosclerotic plaque and functional vascular alteration was mild. On the other hand, atherogenic diet in castrated rabbits induced an increment in total cholesterol from 387.6 ± 292.7 mg/dl (p <0.001) and severe morphological changes such as plaque area 2.6 ± 2.3mm (p <0.001), vessel plaque/area 0.25 ± 0.1 (p <0.001) and area index of plaque/area of the media 0.4 ± 0.3 (p <0.001). Endothelium independent relaxation percentage was 85.5 ± 14.3% (p = NS) and endothelium dependent relaxation was 38.5 ± 201% (p = 0.03). Conclusion: This study realized in rabbits demonstrates that endogenous testosterone might have a preventive effect on atherosclerosis and favor endothelium dependent vascular relaxation in the presence of severe
Disappearance of La Caille Plaque
A bronze plaque erected to the memory of N.-L. de La Caille near the site of his observatory in Central Cape Town, has been stolen by metal thieves. It was designed by the famous architect Sir Herbert Baker.
VEGF pathway inhibition by anticancer agent sunitinib and susceptibility to atherosclerosis plaque disruption.
Ropert, Stanislas; Vignaux, Olivier; Mir, Olivier; Goldwasser, François
Patients treated with anti-VEGF agents are at increased risk for arterial thrombo-embolic events (ATEs). However, the pathophysiology of such acute vascular complications remains unclear. We report on a case of bowel infarction in a renal cancer patient treated with the anti-VEGF agent sunitinib. An abdominal CT-scan evidenced the rupture of an atherosclerotic plaque located at the emergence of the superior mesenteric artery. In view of this report, we suggest that evaluation of the risk of ATE in patients receiving anti-VEGF agents should include not only age and past history of ATE as suggested by previous studies, but also assessment of atherosclerotic lesions on CT-scan.
Evaluation of atherosclerotic lesions using dextran- and mannan–dextran-coated USPIO: MRI analysis and pathological findings
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Mukaisho K
Full Text Available Keiko Tsuchiya1, Norihisa Nitta1, Akinaga Sonoda1, Ayumi Nitta-Seko1, Shinichi Ohta1, Masashi Takahashi1, Kiyoshi Murata1, Kenichi Mukaisho2, Masashi Shiomi3, Yasuhiko Tabata4, Satoshi Nohara51Department of Radiology, 2Department of Pathology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Otsu, Shiga, 3Institute for Experimental Animals, Kobe University School of Medicine, Kobe, Hyogo, 4Department of Biomaterials, Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 5Nagoya Research Laboratory, Meito Sangyo, Kiyosu, Aichi, JapanAbstract: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI can detect atherosclerotic lesions containing accumulations of ultrasmall superparamagnetic iron oxides (USPIO. Positing that improved USPIO with a higher affinity for atherosclerotic plaques would yield better plaque images, we performed MRI and histologic studies to compare the uptake of dextran- and mannan–dextran-coated USPIO (D-USPIO and DM-USPIO, respectively by the atherosclerotic walls of rabbits. We intravenously injected atherosclerotic rabbits with DM-USPIO (n = 5 or D-USPIO (n = 5. Two rabbits were the controls. The doses delivered were 0.08 (dose 1 (n = 1, 0.4 (dose 2 (n = 1, or 0.8 (dose 3 (n = 3 mmol iron/Kg. The dose 3 rabbits underwent in vivo contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (MRA before and 5 days after USPIO administration. Afterwards, all animals were euthanized, the aortae were removed and subjected to in vitro MRI study. The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR of the aortic wall in the same region of interest (ROI was calculated in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Histological assessment through measurement of iron-positive regions in Prussian blue-stained specimens showed that iron-positive regions were significantly larger in rabbits injected with DM- rather than D-USPIO (P < 0.05 for all doses. In vivo MRA showed that the SNR-reducing effect of DM- was greater than that of D-USPIO (P < 0.05. With in vitro MRI scans, SNR was significantly
Surface expression of CXCR4 on circulating CD133+ progenitor cells is associated with plaque instability in subjects with carotid artery stenosis
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Sadikovic Suwad
Full Text Available Abstract Background Circulating progenitor cells (PCs are considered to contribute to the remodeling of atherosclerotic plaques. Their surface receptor CXCR4 plays an important role in the recruitment of PCs to their target. This study compares the mobilization of PCs and their functional characteristics in asymptomatic subjects with stable and with unstable carotid plaques. This could provide insight into plaque remodeling and help to develop biomarkers for plaque stability. Methods In 31 subjects with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis we analyzed the number of CD133+ PCs, VEGFR2+CD34+ PCs and the surface expression of CXCR4 on CD133+ PCs by flow cytometry. Subjects underwent bilateral carotid MRI in a 1.5-T scanner in order to allow the categorization of plaques, following the modified criteria of the American Heart Association. Results The number of CD133+ PCs and VEGFR2+CD34+ PCs showed no significant difference between subjects with stable and unstable carotid plaques. The expression of CXCR4 on CD133+ PCs was higher in subjects with unstable plaques than in subjects with stable plaques (p = 0.009. Conclusions This study demonstrates an association between functional characteristics of circulating CD133+ PCs and plaque stability in subjects with asymptomatic carotid artery stenosis. The higher expression of CXCR4 on CD133+ PCs suggests a difference in the recruitment of PCs to the injured tissue in subjects with unstable plaques and subjects with stable plaques. As surface expression of CXCR4 on CD133+ PCs differs in subjects with unstable and with stable plaques, CXCR4 is a promising candidate for a serological biomarker for plaque stability.
Localization of oxidized low-density lipoprotein and its relation to plaque morphology in human coronary artery.
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Yasumi Uchida
Full Text Available OBJECTIVES: Oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL plays a key role in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. However, its localization in human coronary arterial wall is not well understood. The present study was performed to visualize deposition sites and patterns of native oxLDL and their relation to plaque morphology in human coronary artery. METHODS: Evans blue dye (EB elicits a violet fluorescence by excitation at 345-nm and emission at 420-nm, and a reddish-brown fluorescence by excitation at 470-nm and emission at 515-nm characteristic of oxLDL only. Therefore, native oxLDL in excised human coronary artery were investigated by color fluorescent microscopy (CFM using EB as a biomarker. RESULTS: (1 By luminal surface scan with CFM, the % incidence of oxLDL in 38 normal segments, 41 white plaques and 32 yellow plaques that were classified by conventional angioscopy, was respectively 26, 44 and 94, indicating significantly (p<0.05 higher incidence in the latter than the former two groups. Distribution pattern was classified as patchy, diffuse and web-like. Web-like pattern was observed only in yellow plaques with necrotic core. (2 By transected surface scan, oxLDL deposited within superficial layer in normal segments and diffusely within both superficial and deep layers in white and yellow plaques. In yellow plaques with necrotic core, oxLDL deposited not only in the marginal zone of the necrotic core but also in the fibrous cap. CONCLUSION: Taken into consideration of the well-known process of coronary plaque growth, the results suggest that oxLDL begins to deposit in human coronary artery wall before plaque formation and increasingly deposits with plaque growth, exhibiting different deposition sites and patterns depending on morphological changes.
Effects of bacteriophage traits on plaque formation
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Kannoly Sherin
Full Text Available Abstract Background The appearance of plaques on a bacterial lawn is one of the enduring imageries in modern day biology. The seeming simplicity of a plaque has invited many hypotheses and models in trying to describe and explain the details of its formation. However, until now, there has been no systematic experimental exploration on how different bacteriophage (phage traits may influence the formation of a plaque. In this study, we constructed a series of isogenic λ phages that differ in their adsorption rate, lysis timing, or morphology so that we can determine the effects if these changes on three plaque properties: size, progeny productivity, and phage concentration within plaques. Results We found that the adsorption rate has a diminishing, but negative impact on all three plaque measurements. Interestingly, there exists a concave relationship between the lysis time and plaque size, resulting in an apparent optimal lysis time that maximizes the plaque size. Although suggestive in appearance, we did not detect a significant effect of lysis time on plaque productivity. Nonetheless, the combined effects of plaque size and productivity resulted in an apparent convex relationship between the lysis time and phage concentration within plaques. Lastly, we found that virion morphology also affected plaque size. We compared our results to the available models on plaque size and productivity. For the models in their current forms, a few of them can capture the qualitative aspects of our results, but not consistently in both plaque properties. Conclusions By using a collection of isogenic phage strains, we were able to investigate the effects of individual phage traits on plaque size, plaque productivity, and average phage concentration in a plaque while holding all other traits constant. The controlled nature of our study allowed us to test several model predictions on plaque size and plaque productivity. It seems that a more realistic theoretical
The contemporary management of intracranial atherosclerotic disease.
Leng, Xinyi; Wong, Ka Sing; Leung, Thomas W
Intracranial atherosclerotic disease is the most common cause of cerebral vasculopathy and an important stroke etiology worldwide, with a higher prevalence in Asian, Hispanic and African ethnicities. Symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease portends a recurrent stroke risk as high as 18% at one year. The key to secondary prevention is an understanding of the underlying stroke mechanism and aggressive control of conventional cardiovascular risks. Contemporary treatment includes antiplatelet therapy, optimal glycemic and blood pressure control, statin therapy and lifestyle modifications. For patients with high-grade (70-99%) symptomatic steno-occlusion, short-term dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel followed by life-long single antiplatelet therapy may reduce the recurrent risk. Current evidence does not advocate percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting as an initial treatment. External counterpulsation, encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis and remote limb ischemic preconditioning are treatments under investigation. Future studies should aim at predicting patients prone to recurrence despite of medical therapies and testing the efficacy of emerging therapies.
[New insights towards catheter-based identification of vulnerable plaque
G.A. Rodriguez-Granillo (Gaston); P.W.J.C. Serruys (Patrick); E.S. Regar (Eveline); J.A. Schaar (Johannes)
textabstractSudden cardiac death or unheralded acute coronary syndromes are common initial manifestations of coronary atherosclerosis and most such events occur at sites of non-flow limiting coronary atherosclerosis. Autopsy data suggests that plaque composition is a key determinant of the propensit
Plaque characterization in ex vivo MRI evaluated by dense 3D correspondence with histology
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Engelen, A. van; de Bruijne, Marleen; Klein, S.;
registration of histology data with ex vivo MRI data, using non-rigid registration, both for training and evaluation. This is more objective than previously presented methods, as it eliminates selection bias that is introduced when 2D MRI slices are manually matched to histological slices before evaluation....... Histological slices of human atherosclerotic plaques were manually segmented into necrotic core, fibrous tissue and calcification. Classification of these three components was voxelwise evaluated. As features the intensity, gradient magnitude and Laplacian in four MRI sequences after different degrees...
Denitrification in human dental plaque
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Verstraete Willy
Full Text Available Abstract Background Microbial denitrification is not considered important in human-associated microbial communities. Accordingly, metabolic investigations of the microbial biofilm communities of human dental plaque have focused on aerobic respiration and acid fermentation of carbohydrates, even though it is known that the oral habitat is constantly exposed to nitrate (NO3- concentrations in the millimolar range and that dental plaque houses bacteria that can reduce this NO3- to nitrite (NO2-. Results We show that dental plaque mediates denitrification of NO3- to nitric oxide (NO, nitrous oxide (N2O, and dinitrogen (N2 using microsensor measurements, 15N isotopic labelling and molecular detection of denitrification genes. In vivo N2O accumulation rates in the mouth depended on the presence of dental plaque and on salivary NO3- concentrations. NO and N2O production by denitrification occurred under aerobic conditions and was regulated by plaque pH. Conclusions Increases of NO concentrations were in the range of effective concentrations for NO signalling to human host cells and, thus, may locally affect blood flow, signalling between nerves and inflammatory processes in the gum. This is specifically significant for the understanding of periodontal diseases, where NO has been shown to play a key role, but where gingival cells are believed to be the only source of NO. More generally, this study establishes denitrification by human-associated microbial communities as a significant metabolic pathway which, due to concurrent NO formation, provides a basis for symbiotic interactions.
Microcalcifications in atherosclerotic lesion of apolipoprotein E-deficient mouse
Debernardi, Nicola; Roijers, Ruben B; Krams, Rob; de Crom, Rini; Mutsaers, Peter HA; van der Vusse, Ger J
Evidence is accumulating that calcium-rich microdeposits in the vascular wall might play a crucial role in the onset and progression of atherosclerosis. Here we investigated an atherosclerotic lesion of the carotid artery in an established murine model, i.e. the apolipoprotein E-deficient (APOE−/−) mouse to identify (i) the presence of microcalcifications, if any, (ii) the elemental composition of microcalcifications with special reference to calcium/phosphorus mass ratio and (iii) co-localization of increased concentrations of iron and zinc with microcalcifications. Atherosclerosis was induced by a flow-divider placed around the carotid artery resulting in low and high shear-stress regions. Element composition was assessed with a proton microprobe. Microcalcifications, predominantly present in the thickened intima of the low shear-stress region, were surrounded by areas with normal calcium levels, indicating that calcium-precipitation is a local event. The diameter of intimal microcalcifications varied from 6 to 70 μm. Calcium/phosphorus ratios of microcalcifications varied from 0.3 to 4.8, mainly corresponding to the ratio of amorphous calcium-phosphate. Increased iron and zinc concentrations commonly co-localized with microcalcifications. Our findings indicate that the atherosclerotic process in the murine carotid artery is associated with locally accumulated calcium, iron and zinc. The calcium-rich deposits resemble amorphous calcium phosphate rather than pure hydroxyapatite. We propose that the APOE−/− mouse, in which atherosclerosis was evoked by a flow-divider, offers a useful model to investigate the pathophysiological significance of accumulation of elements such as calcium, iron and zinc. PMID:20804542
Association of Coronary Stenosis and Plaque Morphology With Fractional Flow Reserve and Outcomes
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Ahmadi, Amir; Stone, Gregg W; Leipsic, Jonathon;
as substantially reduced death and myocardial infarction. While FFR identifies hemodynamically significant lesions likely to produce ischemia-related symptoms, it remains less clear as to why it might predict the risk of acute coronary syndromes, which are usually due to plaque rupture and coronary thrombosis......IMPORTANCE: Obstructive coronary lesions with reduced luminal dimensions may result in abnormal regional myocardial blood flow as assessed by stress-induced myocardial perfusion imaging or a significant fall in distal perfusion pressure with hyperemia-induced vasodilatation (fractional flow reserve....... OBSERVATIONS: Although the atherosclerotic plaques with large necrotic cores (independent of the degree of luminal stenosis) are known to be associated with vulnerability to rupture and acute coronary syndromes, emerging evidence also suggests that they may induce greater rates of ischemia and reduced FFR...
Endothelial lipase is highly expressed in macrophages in advanced human atherosclerotic lesions
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Bartels, Emil D; Nielsen, John E; Lindegaard, Marie Louise Skakkebæk;
, there was a positive association between the expression of EL mRNA and CD68 mRNA in plaques from 26 patients. The impact of differentiation from monocytes into macrophages, and subsequently foam cells (by incubation with acetylated LDL) on expression was studied using THP-1 monocytes and primary human monocytes. EL m...... on sections of carotid endarterectomy specimens from patients with symptomatic cerebrovascular disease. In each of eight patients, EL mRNA and/or protein were seen in areas between the necrotic core and the fibrotic cap where they colocalized with LPL and macrophage-specific CD68. Moreover......RNA expression increased markedly when either type of monocytes was differentiated into macrophages. Upon further differentiation into foam cells EL mRNA decreased whereas protein levels remained high compared to monocytes. In conclusion, macrophages in advanced human atherosclerotic lesions display high levels...
Endothelial lipase is highly expressed in macrophages in advanced human atherosclerotic lesions
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Bartels, Emil D; Nielsen, John E; Lindegaard, Marie Louise Skakkebæk;
RNA expression increased markedly when either type of monocytes was differentiated into macrophages. Upon further differentiation into foam cells EL mRNA decreased whereas protein levels remained high compared to monocytes. In conclusion, macrophages in advanced human atherosclerotic lesions display high levels......, there was a positive association between the expression of EL mRNA and CD68 mRNA in plaques from 26 patients. The impact of differentiation from monocytes into macrophages, and subsequently foam cells (by incubation with acetylated LDL) on expression was studied using THP-1 monocytes and primary human monocytes. EL m...... of EL expression, and the level of EL expression varies greatly during transformation of blood monocytes into foam cells....
Diffuse Dermal Angiomatosis: A Clue to the Diagnosis of Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease
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Tueboon Sriphojanart
Full Text Available Diffuse dermal angiomatosis (DDA is a benign, acquired, reactive vascular proliferation. DDA is clinically characterized by painful purpuric plaque with central ulceration. The histopathologic hallmark is diffuse proliferation of endothelial cells that are arranged interstitially between collagen bundles of the reticular dermis. DDA has been reported in association with peripheral atherosclerotic disease, arteriovenous fistula and heavy smoking. We report the case of a 49-year-old Asian male with DDA who presented with a painful stellate-shaped purpuric patch on the right thigh. Histopathologic examination showed proliferation of CD34-positive spindle cells in the dermis. Our patient underwent vascular bypass surgery along with tight control of cardiovascular risk factors, which yielded successful results.
The analysis of the connection between plaque morphology of the asymptomatic carotid stenosis and ischemic brain lesions
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Milošević Đorđe
Full Text Available Background/Aim. A certain percentage of patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis have an unstable carotid plaque. For these patients it is possible to register by modern imaging methods the existence of lesions of the brain parenchyma - the silent brain infarction. These patients have a greater risk of ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to analyze the connection between the morphology of atherosclerotic carotid plaque in patients with asymptomatic carotid stenosis and the manifestation of silent brain infarction, and to analyze the influence of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases on the occurrence of silent brain infarction and the morphology of carotid plaque. Methods. This retrospective study included patients who had been operated for high grade (> 70% extracranial atherosclerotic carotid stenosis at the Clinic for Vascular and Transplantation Surgery of the Clinical Center of Vojvodina over a period of 5 years. The patients analyzed had no clinical manifestation of cerebrovascular insufficiency of the carotid artery territory up to the time of operation. The classification of carotid plaque morphology was carried out according to the Gray-Weale classification, after which all the types were subcategorized into two groups: stable and unstable. Brain lesions were verified using preoperative imaging of the brain parenchyma by magnetic resonance. We analyzed ipsilateral lesions of the size > or = 3 mm. Results. Out of a 201 patients 78% had stable plaque and 22% unstable one. Unstable plaque was prevalent in the male patients (male/female ratio = 24.8% : 17.8%, but without a statistically significant difference (p > 0.05. The risk factors (hypertension, nicotinism, hyperlipoproteinemia, and diabetes mellitus showed no statistically significant impact on carotid plaque morphology and the occurrence of silent brain infarction. Silent brain infarction was detected in 30.8% of the patients. Unstable carotid plaque was found in a
Reproducibility of high-resolution MRI for the middle cerebral artery plaque at 3 T
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Purpose: To assess the reproducibility of HR-MRI for the identification of MCA atherosclerotic plaque components and quantification of stenosis. Materials and methods: Seventy-three consecutive subjects who initially had ischemic stroke or asymptomatic MCA stenosis (>50%) were enrolled in the study. All subjects were scanned using 3.0 T MRI. Two independent readers reviewed all images and one reader reevaluated all images four weeks later. The tissue components of plaques were analyzed qualitatively and the vessels were quantitative measured. Results: HR-MRI displayed the artery wall and lumen clearly. The intra-observer reproducibility was excellent for the identification of plaques (kappa [κ] = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.83–1.04) and contrast enhancement (κ = 0.89; 0.78–0.95); it was substantial for intra-plaque hemorrhage (κ = 0.79; 0.57–0.96) and the fibrous cap (κ = 0.65; 0.42–0.86). The inter-observer reproducibility was excellent for plaques (κ = 0.92; 0.73–1.06), substantial for contrast enhancement (κ = 0.80; 0.65–0.93), intra-plaque hemorrhage (κ = 0.68; 0.47–0.92) and moderate for the fibrous cap (κ = 0.58; 0.44–0.79). Both intra-observer and inter-observer reproducibility were excellent for quantitative vessel, lumen and wall measurements with intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.91 to 0.97 and 0.87 to 0.96, respectively. However, vessel and wall areas and the intervals defined by the Bland–Altman plots were wide in comparison to the mean. Conclusions: The identification of MCA atherosclerotic plaque components and the quantification of vessel and lumen measurements are reproducible. The reproducibility is overall acceptable. HR-MRI may provide a useful tool for clinical risk evaluation in MCA atherosclerosis
Reproducibility of high-resolution MRI for the middle cerebral artery plaque at 3 T
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Yang, Wan-Qun [Department of Radiology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080 (China); Huang, Biao, E-mail: firstname.lastname@example.com [Department of Radiology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080 (China); Liu, Xin-Tong [Department of Neurology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080 (China); Liu, Hong-Jun; Li, Pei-Jun [Department of Radiology, Guangdong Academy of Medical Sciences, Guangdong General Hospital, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510080 (China); Zhu, Wen-Zhen, E-mail: email@example.com [Department of Radiology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei 430030 (China)
Purpose: To assess the reproducibility of HR-MRI for the identification of MCA atherosclerotic plaque components and quantification of stenosis. Materials and methods: Seventy-three consecutive subjects who initially had ischemic stroke or asymptomatic MCA stenosis (>50%) were enrolled in the study. All subjects were scanned using 3.0 T MRI. Two independent readers reviewed all images and one reader reevaluated all images four weeks later. The tissue components of plaques were analyzed qualitatively and the vessels were quantitative measured. Results: HR-MRI displayed the artery wall and lumen clearly. The intra-observer reproducibility was excellent for the identification of plaques (kappa [κ] = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.83–1.04) and contrast enhancement (κ = 0.89; 0.78–0.95); it was substantial for intra-plaque hemorrhage (κ = 0.79; 0.57–0.96) and the fibrous cap (κ = 0.65; 0.42–0.86). The inter-observer reproducibility was excellent for plaques (κ = 0.92; 0.73–1.06), substantial for contrast enhancement (κ = 0.80; 0.65–0.93), intra-plaque hemorrhage (κ = 0.68; 0.47–0.92) and moderate for the fibrous cap (κ = 0.58; 0.44–0.79). Both intra-observer and inter-observer reproducibility were excellent for quantitative vessel, lumen and wall measurements with intraclass correlation coefficients ranging from 0.91 to 0.97 and 0.87 to 0.96, respectively. However, vessel and wall areas and the intervals defined by the Bland–Altman plots were wide in comparison to the mean. Conclusions: The identification of MCA atherosclerotic plaque components and the quantification of vessel and lumen measurements are reproducible. The reproducibility is overall acceptable. HR-MRI may provide a useful tool for clinical risk evaluation in MCA atherosclerosis.
Effect of plaque accumulation and salivary factors on enamel demineralization and plaque composition in situ Efeito do acúmulo de placa e de fatores salivares na desmineralização do esmalte e composição da placa dental in situ
Livia Maria Andaló Tenuta; José Eduardo de Oliveira Lima; Celso Luiz Cardoso; Cínthia Pereira Machado Tabchoury; Jaime Aparecido Cury
This study evaluated the effect of some plaque and salivary factors on caries progression in situ. The salivary secretion rate, buffering capacity and mutans streptococci counts from 13 volunteers were determined. For three distinct periods of time, 4, 7 and 10 days, each of them wore a palatal appliance containing 4 bovine enamel blocks. They used a non-fluoridated dentifrice during the experiment and a 20% sucrose solution was dripped onto the blocks 10 times a day. Mutans streptococci (MS)...
Heterogeneous distribution of a diffusional tracer in the aortic wall of normal and atherosclerotic rabbits
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Tsutsui, H.; Tomoike, H.; Nakamura, M. (Kyushu Univ., Fukuoka (Japan))
Tracer distribution as an index of nutritional support across the thoracic and abdominal aortas in rabbits in the presence or absence of atherosclerotic lesions was evaluated using ({sup 14}C)antipyrine, a metabolically inert, diffusible indicator. Intimal plaques were produced by endothelial balloon denudation of the thoracic aorta and a 1% cholesterol diet. After a steady intravenous infusion of 200 microCi of ({sup 14}C)antipyrine for 60 seconds, thoracic and abdominal aortas and the heart were excised, and autoradiograms of 20-microns-thick sections were quantified, using microcomputer-aided densitometry. Regional radioactivity and regional diffusional support, as an index of nutritional flow estimated from the timed collections of arterial blood, was 367 and 421 nCi.g-1 (82 and 106 ml.min-1.100 g-1) in thoracic aortic media of the normal and atherosclerotic rabbits, respectively. Radioactivity at the thickened intima was 179 nCi.g-1 (p less than 0.01 versus media). The gruel was noted at a deeper site within the thickened intima, and diffusional support here was 110 nCi.g-1 (p less than 0.01 versus an average radioactivity at the thickened intima). After ligating the intercostal arteries, regional tracer distribution in the media beneath the fibrofatty lesion, but not the plaque-free intima, was reduced to 46%. Thus, in the presence of advanced intimal thickening, the heterogeneous distribution of diffusional flow is prominent across the vessel wall, and abluminal routes are crucial to meet the increased demands of nutritional requirements.
Heterogeneous distribution of a diffusional tracer in the aortic wall of normal and atherosclerotic rabbits
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Tracer distribution as an index of nutritional support across the thoracic and abdominal aortas in rabbits in the presence or absence of atherosclerotic lesions was evaluated using [14C]antipyrine, a metabolically inert, diffusible indicator. Intimal plaques were produced by endothelial balloon denudation of the thoracic aorta and a 1% cholesterol diet. After a steady intravenous infusion of 200 microCi of [14C]antipyrine for 60 seconds, thoracic and abdominal aortas and the heart were excised, and autoradiograms of 20-microns-thick sections were quantified, using microcomputer-aided densitometry. Regional radioactivity and regional diffusional support, as an index of nutritional flow estimated from the timed collections of arterial blood, was 367 and 421 nCi.g-1 (82 and 106 ml.min-1.100 g-1) in thoracic aortic media of the normal and atherosclerotic rabbits, respectively. Radioactivity at the thickened intima was 179 nCi.g-1 (p less than 0.01 versus media). The gruel was noted at a deeper site within the thickened intima, and diffusional support here was 110 nCi.g-1 (p less than 0.01 versus an average radioactivity at the thickened intima). After ligating the intercostal arteries, regional tracer distribution in the media beneath the fibrofatty lesion, but not the plaque-free intima, was reduced to 46%. Thus, in the presence of advanced intimal thickening, the heterogeneous distribution of diffusional flow is prominent across the vessel wall, and abluminal routes are crucial to meet the increased demands of nutritional requirements
Losartan inhibited expression of matrix metalloproteinases in rat atherosclerotic lesions and angiotensin Ⅱ-stimulated macrophages
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Chun LIANG; Zong-gui WU; Jian DING; Jian-fei JIANG; Gao-zhong HUANG; Rong-zeng DU; Jun-bo GE
AIM: To explore whether the angiotensin Ⅱ (Ang Ⅱ) receptor 1 (AT1) antagonist, losartan could reduce activity and expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in rat atherosclerotic plaques. METHODS: Male Wistar-Kyoto induce experimental atheroma. Then either placebo or losartan 50 mg.kg-1.d-1 was administered in rats for another2 months. In vitro, the effect of losartan 0.1-10 μmol/L on the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was investigated in Ang Ⅱ-stimulated rat peritoneal macrophages. The expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were monitored by Western blot, RT-PCR, and SDS-PAGE zymography analysis. RESULTS: High levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were expressed in rat atherosclerotic lesions. Losartan significantly reduced the activity and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 compared with the placebo group (MMP-2, 5861±539 vs 8991±965, P<0.05; MMP-9,10527±1002 vs 14623±2462, P<0.01). In cultured rat peritoneal macrophages, Ang Ⅱ 0.1 μmol/L elicited an increase in MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity and expression that were prevented by losartan in a dose-dependent manner(P<0.01). But the AT2receptor antagonist PD123319 had no effect. CONCLUSION: Losartan reduced the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in rat atherosclerotic lesions. The anti-atherogenic effects of losartan were due to the direct inhibition of Ang Ⅱ bioactivity.
Losartan inhibited expression of matrix metalloproteinases in rat atherosclerotic lesions and angiotensin Ⅱ-stimulated macrophages
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
ChunLIANG; Zong-guiWU; JianDING; Jian-feiJIANG; Gao-zhongHUANG; Rong-zengDU; Jun-boGE
AIM: To explore whether the angiotensin Ⅱ (Ang Ⅱ) receptor 1 (ATI) antagonist, losartan could reduce activity and expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in rat atherosclerotic plaques. METHODS: Male Wistar-Kyoto rats were ip injected a single dose of vitamin D3 600 kU·kg·-1·month-1 and fed an atherogenic diet for 4 months to induce experimental atheroma. Then either placebo or losartan 50 kU·kg·-1·d-1 was administered in rats for another 2 months. In vitro, the effect of losartan 0.1-10 μmol/L on the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was investigated in Ang Ⅱ-stimulated rat peritoneal macrophages. The expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were monitored by Western blot, RT-PCR, and SDS-PAGE zymography analysis. RESULTS: High levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were expressed in rat atherosclerotic lesions. Losartan significantly reduced the activity and expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 compared with the placebo group (MMP-2, 5861±539 vs 8991±965, P<0.05; MMP-9,10527±1002 vs 14623±2462, P<0.01). In cultured rat peritoneal macrophages, Ang Ⅱ 0.1 μmol/L elicited an increase in MMP-2 and MMP-9 activity and expression that were prevented by losartan in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.01). But the AT2receptor antagonist PD123319 had no effect. CONCLUSION: Losartan reduced the expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in rat atherosclerotic lesions. The anti-atherogenic effects of losartan were due to the direct inhibition of Ang Ⅱ bioactivity.
Protein components in saliva and plaque fluid from irradiated primates
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Edgar, W.M.; Bowen, W.H.; Cole, M.F. (Caries Prevention and Research Branch, National Caries Program, NIDR, Bethesda, Maryland, USA)
Irradiation of the major salivary glands of monkeys (Macaca mulatta) fed cariogenic diets leads to caries clinically indistinguishable from radiation caries in man. This study compares the organic compostion of individual samples of plaque fluid and saliva from irradiated and control monkeys receiving the same cariogenic diet. Plaque and saliva were collected from fasting, tranquillised animals. Four irradiated animals were sampled repeatedly as were non-irradiated controls. Total protein, albumin, immunoglobulins A, G, and M, and the third component of complement (C'3) were quantitated in plaque fluid and whole saliva. Salivary amylase and peroxidase activities were also determined. Plaque fluid and saliva samples were also subjected to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The total viable anaerobic count and numbers of Streptococcus mutans were determined in samples of plaque. The results suggest that the major effect of irradiation leading to increased numbers of S. mutans and caries susceptibility is in the amount, and not the composition, of the saliva produced by the residual gland tissue. The scanty flow of saliva may reduce the effectiveness of cleansing, buffering and lubrication mechanisms as well as resulting in a marked reduction in the total amount of specific and non-specific immune factors entering the mouth.
Protein components in saliva and plaque fluid from irradiated primates
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Irradiation of the major salivary glands of monkeys (Macaca mulatta) fed cariogenic diets leads to caries clinically indistinguishable from radiation caries in man. This study compares the organic compostion of individual samples of plaque fluid and saliva from irradiated and control monkeys receiving the same cariogenic diet. Plaque and saliva were collected from fasting, tranquillised animals. Four irradiated animals were sampled repeatedly as were non-irradiated controls. Total protein, albumin, immunoglobulins A, G, and M, and the third component of complement (C'3) were quantitated in plaque fluid and whole saliva. Salivary amylase and peroxidase activities were also determined. Plaque fluid and saliva samples were also subjected to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The total viable anaerobic count and numbers of Streptococcus mutans were determined in samples of plaque. The results suggest that the major effect of irradiation leading to increased numbers of S. mutans and caries susceptibility is in the amount, and not the composition, of the saliva produced by the residual gland tissue. The scanty flow of saliva may reduce the effectiveness of cleansing, buffering and lubrication mechanisms as well as resulting in a marked reduction in the total amount of specific and non-specific immune factors entering the mouth. (author)
Intravital live cell triggered imaging system reveals monocyte patrolling and macrophage migration in atherosclerotic arteries
McArdle, Sara; Chodaczek, Grzegorz; Ray, Nilanjan; Ley, Klaus
Intravital multiphoton imaging of arteries is technically challenging because the artery expands with every heartbeat, causing severe motion artifacts. To study leukocyte activity in atherosclerosis, we developed the intravital live cell triggered imaging system (ILTIS). This system implements cardiac triggered acquisition as well as frame selection and image registration algorithms to produce stable movies of myeloid cell movement in atherosclerotic arteries in live mice. To minimize tissue damage, no mechanical stabilization is used and the artery is allowed to expand freely. ILTIS performs multicolor high frame-rate two-dimensional imaging and full-thickness three-dimensional imaging of beating arteries in live mice. The external carotid artery and its branches (superior thyroid and ascending pharyngeal arteries) were developed as a surgically accessible and reliable model of atherosclerosis. We use ILTIS to demonstrate Cx3cr1GFP monocytes patrolling the lumen of atherosclerotic arteries. Additionally, we developed a new reporter mouse (Apoe-/-Cx3cr1GFP/+Cd11cYFP) to image GFP+ and GFP+YFP+ macrophages "dancing on the spot" and YFP+ macrophages migrating within intimal plaque. ILTIS will be helpful to answer pertinent open questions in the field, including monocyte recruitment and transmigration, macrophage and dendritic cell activity, and motion of other immune cells.
Mechanical Stresses in Carotid Plaques
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Samuel, Samuel Alberg
simulationer, som tillod beregning af longitudinelle stress-niveauer i den fibrøse kappe. Afhandlingen indeholder tre artikler, som beskriver denne metode. Den første; "Mechanical Stresses in Carotid Plaques using MRI-Based Fluid Structure Interaction Models", beskriver i detaljer metoden til at danne de...
Patient-Specific Carotid Plaque Progression Simulation Using 3D Meshless Generalized Finite Difference Models with Fluid-Structure Interactions Based on Serial In Vivo MRI Data.
Yang, Chun; Tang, Dalin; Atluri, Satya
Previously, we introduced a computational procedure based on three-dimensional meshless generalized finite difference (MGFD) method and serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data to quantify patient-specific carotid atherosclerotic plaque growth functions and simulate plaque progression. Structure-only models were used in our previous report. In this paper, fluid-stricture interaction (FSI) was added to improve on prediction accuracy. One participating patient was scanned three times (T1, T2, and T3, at intervals of about 18 months) to obtain plaque progression data. Blood flow was assumed to laminar, Newtonian, viscous and incompressible. The Navier-Stokes equations with arbitrary Lagrangian-Eulerian (ALE) formulation were used as the governing equations. Plaque material was assumed to be uniform, homogeneous, isotropic, linear, and nearly incompressible. The linear elastic model was used. The 3D FSI plaque model was discretized and solved using a meshless generalized finite difference (GFD) method. Growth functions with a) morphology alone; b) morphology and plaque wall stress (PWS); morphology and flow shear stress (FSS), and d) morphology, PWS and FSS were introduced to predict future plaque growth based on previous time point data. Starting from the T2 plaque geometry, plaque progression was simulated by solving the FSI model and adjusting plaque geometry using plaque growth functions iteratively until T3 is reached. Numerically simulated plaque progression agreed very well with the target T3 plaque geometry with errors ranging from 8.62%, 7.22%, 5.77% and 4.39%, with the growth function including morphology, plaque wall stress and flow shear stress terms giving the best predictions. Adding flow shear stress term to the growth function improved the prediction error from 7.22% to 4.39%, a 40% improvement. We believe this is the first time 3D plaque progression FSI simulation based on multi-year patient-tracking data was reported. Serial MRI-based progression
Mathematical modelling of atheroma plaque formation and development in coronary arteries
Cilla, Myriam; Peña, Estefanía; Martínez, Miguel A.
Atherosclerosis is a vascular disease caused by inflammation of the arterial wall, which results in the accumulation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, monocytes, macrophages and fat-laden foam cells at the place of the inflammation. This process is commonly referred to as plaque formation. The evolution of the atherosclerosis disease, and in particular the influence of wall shear stress on the growth of atherosclerotic plaques, is still a poorly understood phenomenon. This work presents a mathematical model to reproduce atheroma plaque growth in coronary arteries. This model uses the Navier–Stokes equations and Darcy's law for fluid dynamics, convection–diffusion–reaction equations for modelling the mass balance in the lumen and intima, and the Kedem–Katchalsky equations for the interfacial coupling at membranes, i.e. endothelium. The volume flux and the solute flux across the interface between the fluid and the porous domains are governed by a three-pore model. The main species and substances which play a role in early atherosclerosis development have been considered in the model, i.e. LDL, oxidized LDL, monocytes, macrophages, foam cells, smooth muscle cells, cytokines and collagen. Furthermore, experimental data taken from the literature have been used in order to physiologically determine model parameters. The mathematical model has been implemented in a representative axisymmetric geometrical coronary artery model. The results show that the mathematical model is able to qualitatively capture the atheroma plaque development observed in the intima layer. PMID:24196695
Appropriateness of carotid plaque and intima-media thickness assessment in routine clinical practice
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Alessi Alexandre
Full Text Available Abstract Objectives To describe the findings and evaluate appropriateness of a carotid artery study including the measurement of IMT, the presence of atherosclerotic plaque, and their correlation with cardiovascular risk factors. Methods 555 patients (220 men; 67.06 ± 12.44 years were included in the study. 120 patients (21.62% presented carotid plaque: 108 (19.45% in patients with at least one risk factor and 12 (2.1% in patients without risk factors. With respect to appropriateness of the present studies: 65% were appropriate, 22% were uncertain and 13% were inappropriate. The IMT medians were higher in males (0.0280; 95% CI, 00.82 to 0.478; p = 0.0057 and in hypertensive patients (0.391; 95% CI, 0.0190 to 0.0592; p = 0,001. There was a linear increase in mean IMT for each year increased in age (0.0059; 95% CI; 0.0050 to 0.0067. Carotid plaque was more frequent in patients with CAD (p = 0.0002, diabetes (p = 0.024 and hypertension (p = 0.036. Conclusion Assessment of carotid arteries identified increased incidence of plaque in patients with CAD, diabetes and hypertension. IMT was increased in older patients, hypertensive patients and males. Forty-five percent of the patients were studied based on uncertain and inappropriate reasons.
Endovascular revascularization for aortoiliac atherosclerotic disease
Aggarwal, Vikas; Waldo, Stephen W; Armstrong, Ehrin J
Atherosclerotic iliac artery disease is increasingly being treated with endovascular techniques. A number of new stent technologies can be utilized with high long-term patency, including self-expanding stents, balloon-expandable stents, and covered stents, but comparative data on these stent types and in more complex lesions are lacking. This article provides a review of currently available iliac stent technologies, as well as complex procedural aspects of iliac artery interventions, including approaches to the treatment of iliac bifurcation disease, long segment occlusions, choice of stent type, and treatment of iliac artery in-stent restenosis. PMID:27099509
Red autofluorescence of dental plaque bacteria
van der Veen, M. H.; Thomas, R. Z.; Huysmans, M. C. D. N. J. M.; de Soet, J. J.
Red autofluorescence of plaque and its relation to fluorescence of a single species in the biofilm was studied. Fluorescence images of non-disclosed and disclosed plaque of 28 first-year students were captured. The plaque samples were assessed by culture methods and studied for red autofluorescence.
Ablation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinaseα1 in vascular smooth muscle cells promotes diet-induced atherosclerotic calcification in vivo
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
CAI Zhe-jun; DING Ye; ZHANG Miao; LU Qiu-lun; WU Sheng-nan; ZHU Huai-ping; SONG Ping; ZOU Ming-hui
AIM:Atherosclerotic calcification is highly linked with plaque instability and cardiovascular events .Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase ( AMPK) has been involved in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular disease .The contributions of AMPKαsubunits to the development of atherosclerotic calcification in vivo remained unknown .We hypothesized that AMPKαsubunits may play a role in the development of atherosclerotic calcification .METHODS: Atherosclerotic calcification was generated by 24-week fed of western diet in ApoE-/-background mice .Calcification was evaluated in aortic roots and innominate arteries of ApoE-/-mice or in mice with dual deficiencies of ApoE and AMPKαsubunits globally ( AMPKα1 and AMPKα2 ) , or vascular smooth muscle cell ( VSMC)-specific or macrophage-specific knockout of AMPKα1 with atherosclerotic calcification pone diet . The mechanism of AMPKα1 in regulating Runx2 was further explored in human aortic VSMC .RESULTS: Ablation of AMPKα1 but not AMPKα2 in ApoE-/-background promoted atherosclerotic calcification with increased Runt -related transcription factor ( Runx2 ) expression in VSMC compared with ApoE-/-mice.Conversely, chronic administration of metformin, which activated AMPK, markedly reduced ath-erosclerotic calcification and Runx2 expression in ApoE-/-mice but had less effects in ApoE-/-/AMPKα1 -/-mice.Furthermore, VSMC-but not macrophage-specific deficiency of AMPKα1 in ApoE-/-background promoted atherosclerotic calcification in vivo com-pared with the controls .AMPKα1 silencing in human aortic VSMC prevented Runx 2 from proteasome degradation to trigger osteoblastic differentiation of VSMC .Conversely , activation of AMPK led to Runx 2 instability by inducing its small ubiquitin-like modifier modifi-cation (SUMOylation).Protein inhibitor of activated STAT-1 (PIAS1), the SUMO E3-ligase of Runx2, was directly phosphorylated by AMPKα1 at serine 510, to enhance its SUMO E3-ligase activity.Ablation of PIAS1
Methodical study on plaque characterization using integrated vascular ultrasound, strain and spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging
Graf, Iulia M.; Su, Jimmy; Yeager, Doug; Amirian, James; Smalling, Richard; Emelianov, Stanislav
Carotid atherosclerosis has been identified as a potential risk factor for cerebrovascular events, but information about its direct effect on the risk of recurrent stroke is limited due to incomplete diagnosis. The combination of vascular ultrasound, strain rate and spectroscopic photoacoustics could improve the timely diagnosis of plaque status and risk of rupturing. Current ultrasound techniques can noninvasively image the anatomy of carotid arteries. The spatio-temporal variation in displacement of different regions within the arterial wall can be derived from ultrasound radio frequency data; therefore an ultrasound based strain rate imaging modality can be used to reveal changes in arterial mechanical properties. Additionally, spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging can provide information on the optical absorption properties of arterial tissue and it can be used to identify the location of specific tissue components, such as lipid pools. An imaging technique combining ultrasound, strain rate and spectroscopic photoacoustics was tested on an excised atherosclerotic rabbit aorta. The ultrasound image illustrates inhomogeneities in arterial wall thickness, the strain rate indicates the arterial segment with reduced elasticity and the spectroscopic photoacoustic image illustrates the accumulation of lipids. The results demonstrated that ultrasound, strain rate and spectroscopic photoacoustic imaging are complementary. Thus the integration of the three imaging modalities advances the characterization of atherosclerotic plaques.
Pregnancy loss and later risk of atherosclerotic disease
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Ranthe, Mattis Flyvholm; Andersen, Elisabeth Anne Wreford; Wohlfahrt, Jan;
Pregnancy losses and atherosclerotic disease may be etiologically linked through underlying pathology. We examined whether miscarriage and stillbirth increase later risk of myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction, and renovascular hypertension.......Pregnancy losses and atherosclerotic disease may be etiologically linked through underlying pathology. We examined whether miscarriage and stillbirth increase later risk of myocardial infarction, cerebral infarction, and renovascular hypertension....
Endovascular treatment of symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease
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Syed I Hussain
Full Text Available Abstract: Symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD is responsible for approximately 10% of all ischemic strokes in the United States. The risk of recurrent stroke may be as high as 35% in patient with critical stenosis greater than 70% in diameter narrowing. Recent advances in medical and endovascular therapy have placed ICAD at the forefront of clinical stroke research to optimize the best medical and endovascular approach to treat this important underlying stroke etiology. Analysis of symptomatic ICAD studies lead to the question that whether angioplasty and or stenting is a safe, suitable and efficacious therapeutic strategy in patients with critical stenoses that are deemed refractory to medical management. Most of the currently available data in support of angioplasty and or stenting in high risk patients with severe symptomatic ICAD is in the form of case series and randomized trial results of endovascular therapy versus medical treatment are awaited. This is a comprehensive review of the state of the art in the endovascular approach with angioplasty and or stenting of symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease.
The contemporary management of intracranial atherosclerotic disease.
Leng, Xinyi; Wong, Ka Sing; Leung, Thomas W
Intracranial atherosclerotic disease is the most common cause of cerebral vasculopathy and an important stroke etiology worldwide, with a higher prevalence in Asian, Hispanic and African ethnicities. Symptomatic intracranial atherosclerotic disease portends a recurrent stroke risk as high as 18% at one year. The key to secondary prevention is an understanding of the underlying stroke mechanism and aggressive control of conventional cardiovascular risks. Contemporary treatment includes antiplatelet therapy, optimal glycemic and blood pressure control, statin therapy and lifestyle modifications. For patients with high-grade (70-99%) symptomatic steno-occlusion, short-term dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel followed by life-long single antiplatelet therapy may reduce the recurrent risk. Current evidence does not advocate percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting as an initial treatment. External counterpulsation, encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis and remote limb ischemic preconditioning are treatments under investigation. Future studies should aim at predicting patients prone to recurrence despite of medical therapies and testing the efficacy of emerging therapies. PMID:27082149
Evaluation of the Effect of Andrographolide on Atherosclerotic Rabbits Induced by Porphyromonas gingivalis
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Rami Al Batran
Full Text Available Epidemiologic evidence has demonstrated significant associations between atherosclerosis and Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg. We had investigated the effect of andrographolide (AND on atherosclerosis induced by Pg in rabbits. For experimental purpose, we separated thirty male white New Zealand rabbits into 5 groups. Group 1 received standard food pellets; Groups 2–5 were orally challenged with Pg; Group 3 received atorvastatin (AV, 5 mg/kg, and Groups 4-5 received 10 and 20 mg/kg of AND, respectively, over 12 weeks. Groups treated with AND showed significant decrease in TC, TG, and LDL levels (P<0.05 and significant increase in HDL level in the serum of rabbits. Furthermore, the treated groups (G3–G5 exhibited reductions in interleukins (IL-1β and IL-6 and C-reactive protein (CRP as compared to atherogenicgroup (G2. The histological results showed that the thickening of atherosclerotic plaques were less significant in treated groups (G3–G5 compared with atherogenicgroup (G2. Also, alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA staining decreased within the plaques of atherogenicgroup (G2, while it was increased in treated groups (G3–G5. Lastly, groups treated with AV and AND (G3–G5 showed significant reduction of CD36 expression (P<0.05 compared to atherogenicgroup (G2. These results substantially proved that AND contain antiatherogenic activity.
Increased metabolite levels of glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathway in rabbit atherosclerotic arteries and hypoxic macrophage.
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Atsushi Yamashita
Full Text Available AIMS: Inflammation and possibly hypoxia largely affect glucose utilization in atherosclerotic arteries, which could alter many metabolic systems. However, metabolic changes in atherosclerotic plaques remain unknown. The present study aims to identify changes in metabolic systems relative to glucose uptake and hypoxia in rabbit atherosclerotic arteries and cultured macrophages. METHODS: Macrophage-rich or smooth muscle cell (SMC-rich neointima was created by balloon injury in the iliac-femoral arteries of rabbits fed with a 0.5% cholesterol diet or a conventional diet. THP-1 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharides (LPS and interferon-γ (INFγ were cultured under normoxic and hypoxic conditions. We evaluated comprehensive arterial and macrophage metabolism by performing metabolomic analyses using capillary electrophoresis-time of flight mass spectrometry. We evaluated glucose uptake and its relationship to vascular hypoxia using (18F-fluorodeoxyglucose ((18F-FDG and pimonidazole, a marker of hypoxia. RESULTS: The levels of many metabolites increased in the iliac-femoral arteries with macrophage-rich neointima, compared with those that were not injured and those with SMC-rich neointima (glycolysis, 4 of 9; pentose phosphate pathway, 4 of 6; tricarboxylic acid cycle, 4 of 6; nucleotides, 10 of 20. The uptake of (18F-FDG in arterial walls measured by autoradiography positively correlated with macrophage- and pimonidazole-immunopositive areas (r = 0.76, and r = 0.59 respectively; n = 69 for both; p<0.0001. Pimonidazole immunoreactivity was closely localized with the nuclear translocation of hypoxia inducible factor-1α and hexokinase II expression in macrophage-rich neointima. The levels of glycolytic (8 of 8 and pentose phosphate pathway (4 of 6 metabolites increased in LPS and INFγ stimulated macrophages under hypoxic but not normoxic condition. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 protein levels in the supernatant were closely
Blocking TLR2 activity diminishes and stabilizes advanced atherosclerotic lesions in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Xiao-xing WANG; Xiao-xi LV; Jia-ping WANG; Hui-min YAN; Zi-yan WANG; Han-zhi LIU; Xiao-ming FU
Aim:Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) signaling plays a critical role in the initiation of atherosclerosis.The aim of this study was to investigate whether blocking TLR2 activity could produce therapeutic effects on advanced atherosclerosis.Methods:Forty-week old apolipoprotein E-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice fed on a normal diet were intravenously injected with a TLR2-neutralizing antibody or with an isotype-matched IgG for 18 weeks.Double-knockout ApoE-/-Tlr2-/-mice were taken as a positive control.At the end of the treatments,the plasma lipid levels were measured,and the plaque morphology,pro-inflammatory cytokines expression and apoptosis in arteries were analyzed.In the second part of this study,6-week old ApoE-/-and ApoE-/-Tlr2-/-mice fed on a high-cholesterol diet for 12 to 24 weeks,the expression levels of TLR2 and apoptotic markers in arteries were examined.Results:Blockade of TLR2 activity with TLR2-neutralizing antibody or knockout of Tlr2 gene did not alter the plasma lipid levels in ApoE-/-mice.However,the pharmacologic and genetic manipulations significantly reduced the plaque size and vessel stenosis,and increased plaque stability in the brachiocephalic arteries.The protective effects of TLR2 antagonism were associated with the suppressed expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α and the inactivation of transcription factors NF-KB and Stat3.In addition,blocking TLR2 activity attenuated ER stress-induced macrophage apoptosis in the brachiocephalic arteries,which could promote the resolution of necrotic cores in advanced atherosclerosis.Moreover,high-cholesterol diet more prominently accelerated atherosclerotic formation and increased the expression of pro-apoptotic protein CHOP and apoptosis in ApoE-/-mice than in ApoE-/-Tlr2-/-mice.Conclusion:The pharmacologic or genetic blockade of TLR2 activity diminishes and stabilizes advanced atherosclerotic lesions in ApoE-/-mice.Thus,targeting TLR2 signaling may be a promising therapeutic strategy against
Fluid-phase pinocytosis of LDL by macrophages: a novel target to reduce macrophage cholesterol accumulation in atherosclerotic lesions.
Kruth, Howar S
Circulating low-density lipoprotein (LDL) that enters the blood vessel wall is the main source of cholesterol that accumulates within atherosclerotic plaques. Much of the deposited cholesterol accumulates within plaque macrophages converting these macrophages into cholesterol-rich foamy looking cells. Cholesterol accumulation in macrophages contributes to cholesterol retention within the vessel wall, and promotes vessel wall inflammation and thrombogenicity. Thus, how macrophages accumulate cholesterol and become foam cells has been the subject of intense investigation. It is generally believed that macrophages accumulate cholesterol only through scavenger receptor-mediated uptake of modified LDL. However, an alternative mechanism for macrophage foam cell formation that does not depend on LDL modification or macrophage receptors has been elucidated. By this alternative mechanism, macrophages show receptor-independent uptake of unmodified native LDL that is mediated by fluid-phase pinocytosis. In receptor-independent, fluid-phase pinocytosis, macrophages take up LDL as part of the fluid that they ingest during micropinocytosis within small vesicles called micropinosomes, and by macropinocytosis within larger vacuoles called macropinosomes. This produces cholesterol accumulation in macrophages to levels characteristic of macrophage foam cells in atherosclerotic plaques. Fluid-phase pinocytosis of LDL is a plausible mechanism that can explain how macrophages accumulate cholesterol and become disease-causing foam cells. Fluid-phase pinocytosis of LDL is a relevant pathway to target for modulating macrophage cholesterol accumulation in atherosclerosis. Recent studies show that phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), liver X receptors (LXRs), the macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) receptor, and protein kinase C (PKC) mediate macrophage macropinocytosis of LDL, and thus, these may be relevant targets to inhibit macrophage cholesterol accumulation in atherosclerosis
Bacterial sex in dental plaque
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Ingar Olsen
Full Text Available Genes are transferred between bacteria in dental plaque by transduction, conjugation, and transformation. Membrane vesicles can also provide a mechanism for horizontal gene transfer. DNA transfer is considered bacterial sex, but the transfer is not parallel to processes that we associate with sex in higher organisms. Several examples of bacterial gene transfer in the oral cavity are given in this review. How frequently this occurs in dental plaque is not clear, but evidence suggests that it affects a number of the major genera present. It has been estimated that new sequences in genomes established through horizontal gene transfer can constitute up to 30% of bacterial genomes. Gene transfer can be both inter- and intrageneric, and it can also affect transient organisms. The transferred DNA can be integrated or recombined in the recipient's chromosome or remain as an extrachromosomal inheritable element. This can make dental plaque a reservoir for antimicrobial resistance genes. The ability to transfer DNA is important for bacteria, making them better adapted to the harsh environment of the human mouth, and promoting their survival, virulence, and pathogenicity.
The Potential Role of Optical Coherence Tomography in the Evaluation of Vulnerable Carotid Atheromatous Plaques: A Pilot Study
International Nuclear Information System (INIS)
Purpose. The decision to intervene surgically in patients with carotid artery disease is based on the presence of symptoms, along with the severity of carotid artery stenosis as assessed by ultrasound or X-ray computed tomography (CT). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a relatively new imaging technique that offers potential in the identification of, as well as the distinction between, stable and unstable atherosclerotic plaques. The purpose of our study was to evaluate whether OCT can be used as a noninvasive diagnostic tool to reveal the morphology of carotid stenosis from the adventitial surface of the carotid artery. To achieve this aim, excised atheromatous plaques were scanned by OCT from the external surface. Methods. Plaques removed at carotid endarterectomy were scanned by OCT from the external surface within 72 hr of surgery and then examined histologically. The images of the histologic slides and the scans were then compared. Results. We examined 10 carotid endarterectomy specimens and were able to identify calcification, cholesterol crystal clefts, and lipid deposits in the OCT images with histologic correlation. The strong light scattering from the calcified tissue and cholesterol crystal clefts limited the depth of light penetration, making observation of the intimal surface and the detail of the fibrous cap difficult. However, we were able to confidently identify the absence of an atherosclerotic plaque by OCT scans even from the external surface. Conclusion. The results of this pilot study demonstrate that OCT can reveal the main features of carotid stenosis but that plaque vulnerability cannot be reliably and precisely assessed if scanned from the external surface with OCT in its present form
Micro-analytical determination of pH, calcium, and phosphate in plaque fluid.
Rankine, C A; Moreno, E C; Vogel, G L; Margolis, H C
Micro-analytical techniques for the determination of calcium, phosphate, and pH in a small volume (less than 0.25 microliter) of plaque fluid are described and evaluated. The accuracy and the precision of the techniques were compared with those for standard macrotechniques applied to a large pooled plaque fluid sample. The results obtained for the micro-analysis of pooled plaque fluid were in excellent agreement with those obtained by macromethods. The described techniques were also used to analyze plaque fluid obtained from single quadrants of the oral cavities of five individuals. In this fashion, it was determined that, although a significant variation in plaque fluid composition exists between the quadrants, a greater variation exists between subjects. Analyses of plaque fluid obtained from six individuals, following sucrose exposure, were also conducted. The pH value of the fluid changed with time, following a typical Stephan curve, with a minimum value occurring between 15 and 30 minutes; following this, the pH increased to a value near that for resting plaque. An inverse relationship between pH and calcium and phosphorus concentrations was observed. It is noted that the described techniques are sensitive enough to carry out the above analyses both accurately and precisely using plaque obtained from a single quadrant. PMID:3867684
Influence of high-dose lipid lowering treatment compared to low-dose lipid lowering treatment on plaque composition assessed by intravascular ultrasound virtual histology in patients with ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction
DEFF Research Database (Denmark)
Egede, Rasmus; Jensen, Lisette Okkels; Hansen, Henrik Steen;
Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of low-dose versus high-dose rosuvastatin therapy on the necrotic core content in coronary plaques of angiographic non-significant lesions as assessed by intravascular ultrasound - virtual histology. Methods and results: Eighty-seven statin-n...... (LDL) cholesterol level was reduced by 31.8% in the low-dose group (from 3.1±0.7 mmol/l to 2.0±0.4 mmol/l, p......Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of low-dose versus high-dose rosuvastatin therapy on the necrotic core content in coronary plaques of angiographic non-significant lesions as assessed by intravascular ultrasound - virtual histology. Methods and results: Eighty-seven statin...
Acute non-atherosclerotic ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in an adolescent with concurrent hemoglobin H-Constant Spring disease and polycythemia vera
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Ekarat Rattarittamrong
Full Text Available Thrombosis is a major complication of polycythemia vera (PV and also a well-known complication of thalassemia. We reported a case of non-atherosclerotic ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI in a 17- year-old man with concurrent post-splenectomized hemoglobin H-Constant Spring disease and JAK2 V617F mutation-positive PV. The patient initially presented with extreme thrombocytosis (platelet counts greater than 1,000,000/μL and three months later developed an acute STEMI. Coronary artery angiography revealed an acute clot in the right coronary artery without atherosclerotic plaque. He was treated with plateletpheresis, hydroxyurea and antiplatelet agents. The platelet count decreased and his symptoms improved. This case represents the importance of early diagnosis, awareness of the increased risk for thrombotic complications, and early treatment of PV in patients who have underlying thalassemia with marked thrombocytosis.
Relationship between enhanced intensity of contrast enhanced ultrasound and microvessel density of aortic atherosclerostic plaque in rabbit model.
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Xiangdong You
Full Text Available The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between enhanced intensity of contrast enhanced ultrasound and microvessel density of aortic atherosclerotic plaque in rabbit model. The abdominal aortas of thirty-six male New Zealand rabbits were damaged by balloon expansion and the animals were then fed a high fat diet for 12 weeks. Twenty-seven plaques on the near aortic wall were detected using conventional ultrasound examination. The maximum thickness of each plaque was recorded. CEUS was performed on these 27 plaques and the time-intensity curves (TICs were analyzed offline. Using the quantitative ACQ software, features such as the arrival time (AT, time to peak (TTP, baseline intensity (BI, peak intensity (PI and enhanced intensity (EI (EI = PI-BI were assessed. Inter- and intra-observer agreement of EI were assessed using the Bland-Altman test. After CEUS examination, the rabbits were sacrificed for pathological examination and CD34 monoclonal antibody immunohistochemical detection. Microvessel density (MVD was counted under the microscope. The relationship between indexes of CEUS and the level of MVD was analyzed. There was a good positive linear correlation between EI and MVD (γ = 0. 854, P<0. 001, the intraclass correlations for inter- and intra-observer agreement for EI were 0.73 and 0.82 respectively, suggesting that EI may be act as a useful index for plaque risk stratification in animal models.
A Computational Model to Assess Poststenting Wall Stresses Dependence on Plaque Structure and Stenosis Severity in Coronary Artery
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Zuned Hajiali
Full Text Available The current study presents computational models to investigate the poststenting hemodynamic stresses and internal stresses over/within the diseased walls of coronary arteries which are in different states of atherosclerotic plaque. The finite element method is applied to build the axisymmetric models which include the plaque, arterial wall, and stent struts. The study takes into account the mechanical effects of the opening pressure and its association with the plaque severity and the morphology. The wall shear stresses and the von Mises stresses within the stented coronary arteries show their strong dependence on the plaque structure, particularly the fibrous cap thickness. Higher stresses occur in severely stenosed coronaries with a thinner fibrous cap. Large stress concentrations around the stent struts cause injury or damage to the vessel wall which is linked to the mechanism of restenosis. The in-stent restenosis rate is also highly dependent on the opening pressure, to the extent that stenosed artery is expanded, and geometry of the stent struts. The present study demonstrates, for the first time, that the restenosis is to be viewed as a consequence of biomechanical design of a stent repeating unit, the opening pressure, and the severity and morphology of the plaque.
Multimodality Intravascular Imaging Assessment of Plaque Erosion versus Plaque Rupture in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Kwon, Jee Eun; Mintz, Gary S.; Hong, Young Joon; Lee, Sung Yun; Kim, Ki Seok; Hahn, Joo-Yong; Kumar, Kaup Sharath; Won, Hoyoun; Hyeon, Seong Hyeop; Shin, Seung Yong; Lee, Kwang Je; Kim, Tae Ho; Kim, Chee Jeong; Kim, Sang Wook
Background and Objectives We assessed plaque erosion of culprit lesions in patients with acute coronary syndrome in real world practice. Subjects and Methods Culprit lesion plaque rupture or plaque erosion was diagnosed with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) was used to determine arterial remodeling. Positive remodeling was defined as a remodeling index (lesion/reference EEM [external elastic membrane area) >1.05. Results A total of 90 patients who had plaque rupture showing fibrous-cap discontinuity and ruptured cavity were enrolled. 36 patients showed definite OCT-plaque erosion, while 7 patients had probable OCT-plaque erosion. Overall, 26% (11/43) of definite/probable plaque erosion had non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) while 35% (15/43) had ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Conversely, 14.5% (13/90) of plaque rupture had NSTEMI while 71% (64/90) had STEMI (p<0.0001). Among plaque erosion, white thrombus was seen in 55.8% (24/43) of patients and red thrombus in 27.9% (12/43) of patients. Compared to plaque erosion, plaque rupture more often showed positive remodeling (p=0.003) with a larger necrotic core area examined by virtual histology (VH)-IVUS, while negative remodeling was prominent in plaque erosion. Overall, 65% 28/43 of plaque erosions were located in the proximal 30 mm of a culprit vessel-similar to plaque ruptures (72%, 65/90, p=0.29). Conclusion Although most of plaque erosions show nearly normal coronary angiogram, modest plaque burden with negative remodeling and an uncommon fibroatheroma might be the nature of plaque erosion. Multimodality intravascular imaging with OCT and VH-IVUS showed fundamentally different pathoanatomic substrates underlying plaque rupture and erosion. PMID:27482258
Molecular imaging of vulnerable atherosclerosis. Preclinical and clinical evaluation of nuclear tracers; Imagerie moleculaire de la plaque d'atherome vulnerable. Evaluation preclinique et clinique de traceurs radioactifs
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Broisat, A.; Riou, L.M.; Dimastromatteo, J.; Pons, G.; Fagret, D.; Ghezzi, C. [Inserm U877, radiopharmaceutiques biocliniques, 38 - Grenoble (France); Grenoble Univ., 38 (France); Dimastromatteo, J. [ERAS Labo, 38 - Saint-Nazaire-les-Eymes (France)
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (C.V.D.) are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, accounting for greater than 19.106 deaths annually. Despite major advances in the treatment of C.V.D., a high proportion of C.V.D. victims die suddenly while being apparently healthy, the great majority of these accidents being due to the rupture or erosion of a vulnerable coronary atherosclerotic plaque. Indeed, an acute heart attack is the first symptom of atherosclerosis in as much as 50% of individuals with severe disease. A non-invasive imaging methodology allowing the early detection of vulnerable atherosclerosis in selected individuals prior to the occurrence of any symptom would therefore be of great public health benefit. Nuclear imaging could potentially allow the identification of vulnerable patients by non-invasive scintigraphic imaging following administration of a radiolabeled tracer. The development of radiolabeled probes that specifically bind to and allow the in vivo imaging of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques is therefore the subject of intense ongoing experimental and clinical research. Radiotracers targeted at the inflammatory process seem particularly relevant and promising. Recently, macrophage targeting allowed the experimental in vivo detection of atherosclerosis using either SPECT or PET imaging. A few tracers have also been evaluated clinically. Targeting of apoptosis and macrophage metabolism both allowed the imaging of vulnerable atherosclerotic plaques in the carotid vessels of patients. However, nuclear imaging of vulnerable plaques at the level of the coronary arteries remains a challenging issue because of the small size of atherosclerotic lesions and of their vicinity with blood and the circulating tracer activity. (authors)
Ophthalmic masquerades of the atherosclerotic carotids
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Anupriya Arthur
Full Text Available Patients with carotid atherosclerosis can present with ophthalmic symptoms. These symptoms and signs can be due to retinal emboli, hypoperfusion of the retina and choroid, opening up of collateral channels, or chronic hypoperfusion of the globe (ocular ischemic syndrome. These pathological mechanisms can produce many interesting signs and a careful history can bring out important past symptoms pointing toward the carotid as the source of the patient′s presenting symptom. Such patients are at high risk for an ischemic stroke, especially in the subsequent few days following their first acute symptom. It is important for clinicians to be familiar with these ophthalmic symptoms and signs caused by carotid atherosclerosis for making an early diagnosis and to take appropriate measures to prevent a stroke. This review elaborates the clinical features, importance, and implications of various ophthalmic symptoms and signs resulting from atherosclerotic carotid artery disease.
Association of circulating omentin-1 level with arterial stiffness and carotid plaque in type 2 diabetes
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Yoo Hye
Full Text Available Abstract Background Adipokines contribute directly to the atherosclerotic process, connecting metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes to cardiovascular disease. Omentin-1 is a recently discovered novel adipokine, so data about the relationship of this adipokine to vascular health in type 2 diabetes is limited. Methods We enrolled 60 people with type 2 diabetes, with or without carotid plaque, and 30 participants with normal glucose tolerance. We measured serum omentin-1, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP levels, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR, as well as other cardiovascular risk factors. Vascular health was assessed by brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT. Results Serum omentin-1 levels were significantly decreased in type 2 diabetes patients compared to normal glucose controls and was further reduced in type 2 diabetes patients with carotid plaque compared to those without carotid plaque. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that age, systolic blood pressure, history of use of statins, angiotensin receptor blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and serum omentin-1 level were independent factors determining baPWV in people with type 2 diabetes (r2 = 0.637. Furthermore, in multivariate logistic regression analysis, circulating omentin-1 level was an independent decisive factor for the presence of carotid plaque in type 2 diabetes patients, even after adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and history of smoking and medication (odds ratio, 0.621; 95% confidence interval, 0.420-0.919; P = 0.017. Conclusions Circulating omentin-1 level was independently correlated with arterial stiffness and carotid plaque in type 2 diabetes, even after adjusting for other cardiovascular risk factors and detailed medication history.
The Relationship between Matrix Metalloproteinases and Atherosclerotic Lesions%基质金属蛋白酶与动脉粥样硬化病变的关系
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陈线茹; 豆志伟
在正常生理情况下,基质金属蛋白酶-9能够切断任何细胞外基质成分,调节细胞黏着,作用于细胞外成分或其他蛋白成分而启动潜在生物学功能.病理状态下,潜在型基质金属蛋白酶-9可被激活并参与动脉粥样硬化时的血管壁重构、斑块破裂、血栓形成等过程.研究发现,基质金属蛋白酶-3与动脉粥样硬化过程中纤维帽的形成密切相关,同时基质金属蛋白酶-3可激活包括基质金属蛋白酶-3前体在内的其他基质金属蛋白酶,从而加速动脉粥样硬化病变的发展.%In normal physiological conditions, matrix metalloproteinases-9 not only cut off any extracellular matrix components and adjust cell adhesion, but when in the role of the extracellular matrix components or other protein composition can star) the potential biological function. In the pathologic state, potential matrix metalloproteinases-9 can be activated and participate hemal wall reconstruction, plaque ruptured and thrombosis in the processes of atherosclerosis. Research has found matrix metalloproleinases-3 to be closely related lo the process of the formation of the fibrous cap in atherosclerosis, at the same time matrix metal loproteinases-3 can activate matrix metalloprotein-ases-3 precursor and other matrix metalloproteinases, thus speeding up the development of atherosclerotic lesions.
Activation of sterol regulatory element binding protein and NLRP3 inflammasome in atherosclerotic lesion development in diabetic pigs.
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Yu Li
Full Text Available BACKGROUND: Aberrantly elevated sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP, the lipogenic transcription factor, contributes to the development of fatty liver and insulin resistance in animals. Our recent studies have discovered that AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK phosphorylates SREBP at Ser-327 and inhibits its activity, represses SREBP-dependent lipogenesis, and thereby ameliorates hepatic steatosis and atherosclerosis in insulin-resistant LDLR(-/- mice. Chronic inflammation and activation of NLRP3 inflammasome have been implicated in atherosclerosis and fatty liver disease. However, whether SREBP is involved in vascular lipid accumulation and inflammation in atherosclerosis remains largely unknown. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The preclinical study with aortic pouch biopsy specimens from humans with atherosclerosis and diabetes shows intense immunostaining for SREBP-1 and the inflammatory marker VCAM-1 in atherosclerotic plaques. The cleavage processing of SREBP-1 and -2 and expression of their target genes are increased in the well-established porcine model of diabetes and atherosclerosis, which develops human-like, complex atherosclerotic plaques. Immunostaining analysis indicates an elevation in SREBP-1 that is primarily localized in endothelial cells and in infiltrated macrophages within fatty streaks, fibrous caps with necrotic cores, and cholesterol crystals in advanced lesions. Moreover, concomitant suppression of NAD-dependent deacetylase SIRT1 and AMPK is observed in atherosclerotic pigs, which leads to the proteolytic activation of SREBP-1 by diminishing the deacetylation and Ser-372 phosphorylation of SREBP-1. Aberrantly elevated NLRP3 inflammasome markers are evidenced by increased expression of inflammasome components including NLPR3, ASC, and IL-1β. The increase in SREBP-1 activity and IL-1β production in lesions is associated with vascular inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerotic pig aorta, as demonstrated
Non-plaque-induced gingival lesions
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Holmstrup, P
The origin of gingival inflammation is occasionally different from that of routine plaque-associated gingivitis, and such non-plaque-associated types of gingivitis often present characteristic clinical features. Examples of such forms of gingivitis are specific bacterial, viral, and fungal infect......-plaque induced gingival inflammation can be caused by allergic reactions to dental restorative materials, toothpastes, mouthwashes, and foods. In addition, gingival inflammation may result from toxic reactions, foreign body reactions, or mechanical and thermal trauma....
Prevalence and risk factors of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis
Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)
Objective To explore the prevalence and risk factors of atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis(ARAS) in patients undergoing coronary angiography.Methods A total of 2506 patients with suspected and known coronary
Coronary plaque morphology on multi-modality imagining and periprocedural myocardial infarction after percutaneous coronary intervention
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Akira Sato
Full Text Available Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI may be complicated by periprocedural myocardial infarction (PMI as manifested by elevated cardiac biomarkers such as creatine kinase (CK-MB or troponin T. The occurrence of PMI has been shown to be associated with worse short- and long-term clinical outcome. However, recent studies suggest that PMI defined by biomarker levels alone is a marker of atherosclerosis burden and procedural complexity but in most cases does not have independent prognostic significance. Diagnostic multi-modality imaging such as intravascular ultrasound, optical coherence tomography, coronary angioscopy, near-infrared spectroscopy, multidetector computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging can be used to closely investigate the atherosclerotic lesion in order to detect morphological markers of unstable and vulnerable plaques in the patients undergoing PCI. With the improvement of technical aspects of multimodality coronary imaging, clinical practice and research are increasingly shifting toward defining the clinical implication of plaque morphology and patients outcomes. There were numerous published data regarding the relationship between pre-PCI lesion subsets on multi-modality imaging and post-PCI biomarker levels. In this review, we discuss the relationship between coronary plaque morphology estimated by invasive or noninvasive coronary imaging and the occurrence of PMI. Furthermore, this review underlies that the value of the multimodality coronary imaging approach will become the gold standard for invasive or noninvasive prediction of PMI in clinical practice.
Epigenetic Modulation in the treatment Atherosclerotic disease
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Mikaela M Byrne
Full Text Available Cardiovascular disease is the single largest cause of death in the western world and its incidence is on the rise globally. Atherosclerosis, characterised by the development of atheromatus plaque, can trigger luminal narrowing and upon rupture result in myocardial infarction or ischemic stroke. Epigenetic mechanisms are a source of considerable research interest due to the role they play in gene regulation. Epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA methylation and histone acetylation have been identified as potential drug targets in the treatment of cardiovascular disease. miRNAs are known to play a role in gene silencing, which has been widely investigated in cancer. In comparison, the role they play in cardiovascular disease and plaque rupture is not well understood. Nutritional epigenetic modifiers from dietary components, for instance sulforaphane found in broccoli, have been shown to suppress the pro-inflammatory response through transcription factor activation. This review will discuss current and potential epigenetic therapeutics for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, focusing on the use of miRNAs and dietary supplements such as sulforaphane and protocatechuic aldehyde.
Atherosclerotic lesions of supra-aortic arteries in diabetic patients
Vidjak, Vinko; Hebrang, Andrija; Brkljačić, Boris; Brajša, Mladen; Novačić, Karlo; Barada, Ante; Škopljanac, Andrija; Erdelez, Lidija; Crnčević, Maja; Kučan, Damir; Flegar-Meštrić, Zlata; Vrhovski-Hebrang, Danijela; Roić, Goran
The aim of this prospective study was to determine the prevalence and localization of stenotic atherosclerotic lesions of supra-aortic arteries in diabetic patients according to age and sex. Angiograms obtained by digital subtraction angiography were analyzed in 150 diabetic patients (study group) and 150 non-diabetic patients (control group) with symptoms of cerebral ischemia. Diabetic patients were found to have a significantly higher prevalence of stenotic atherosclerotic lesions ...
Modest effect on plaque progression and vasodilatory function in atherosclerosis-prone mice exposed to nanosized TiO2
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Mikkelsen, Lone; Sheykhzade, Majid; Jensen, Keld A;
of atherosclerotic plaques in aorta was assessed in mice exposed to nanosized TiO2 (0.5 mg/kg bodyweight) once a week for 4 weeks. We measured mRNA levels of Mcp-1, Mip-2, Vcam-1, Icam-1 and Vegf in lung tissue to assess pulmonary inflammation and vascular function. TiO2-induced alterations in nitric oxide (NO......) production were assessed in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). RESULTS: The exposure to nTiO2 was associated with a modest increase in plaque progression in aorta, whereas there were unaltered vasodilatory function and expression levels of Mcp-1, Mip-2, Vcam-1, Icam-1 and Vegf in lung tissue...
Mitochondrial Mutations are Associated with Atherosclerotic Lesions in the Human Aorta
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Igor A. Sobenin
Full Text Available Somatic mutations of the human mitochondrial genome can be a possible determinant of atherosclerosis. To test this possibility, forty mitochondrial mutations were analyzed in the present study in order to see which of these mutations might be associated with atherosclerosis. Ten mitochondrial mutations belonging to mitochondrial genes MT-RNR1 (rRNA 12S; MT-TL1 (tRNA-Leu, recognizes UUR; MT-TL2 (tRNA-Leu, recognizes CUN; MT-ND1, MT-ND2, MT-ND5, and MT-ND6 (subunits 1, 2, 5, and 6, respectively, of NADH dehydrogenase; and MT-CYB (cytochrome b were potentially associated with atherosclerosis. From 29% (2 of 7 aortic samples upto 86% (6 of 7 aortic samples of aortic samples had a significant difference between atherosclerotic plaques and unaffected tissue, with the respect to the level of heteroplasmy for each mutation. Further, the homogenates of affected and normal intimae of 22 aortas were compared to reveal the average level of heteroplasmy for the above-mentioned 10 mutations. For five mutations, the mean level of heteroplasmy was significantly different in atherosclerotic intimal homogenates in comparison with the unaffected tissue. These mutations were A1555G, C3256T, T3336C, G13513A, and G15059A. Thus, it was demonstrated that at least five mitochondrial mutations occurring in MT-RNR1, MT-TL1, MT-ND2, MT-ND5, and MT-CYB genes are associated with atherosclerosis.
In vitro shear stress measurements using particle image velocimetry in a family of carotid artery models: effect of stenosis severity, plaque eccentricity, and ulceration.
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Sarah Kefayati
Full Text Available Atherosclerotic disease, and the subsequent complications of thrombosis and plaque rupture, has been associated with local shear stress. In the diseased carotid artery, local variations in shear stress are induced by various geometrical features of the stenotic plaque. Greater stenosis severity, plaque eccentricity (symmetry and plaque ulceration have been associated with increased risk of cerebrovascular events based on clinical trial studies. Using particle image velocimetry, the levels and patterns of shear stress (derived from both laminar and turbulent phases were studied for a family of eight matched-geometry models incorporating independently varied plaque features - i.e. stenosis severity up to 70%, one of two forms of plaque eccentricity, and the presence of plaque ulceration. The level of laminar (ensemble-averaged shear stress increased with increasing stenosis severity resulting in 2-16 Pa for free shear stress (FSS and approximately double (4-36 Pa for wall shear stress (WSS. Independent of stenosis severity, marked differences were found in the distribution and extent of shear stress between the concentric and eccentric plaque formations. The maximum WSS, found at the apex of the stenosis, decayed significantly steeper along the outer wall of an eccentric model compared to the concentric counterpart, with a 70% eccentric stenosis having 249% steeper decay coinciding with the large outer-wall recirculation zone. The presence of ulceration (in a 50% eccentric plaque resulted in both elevated FSS and WSS levels that were sustained longer (∼20 ms through the systolic phase compared to the non-ulcerated counterpart model, among other notable differences. Reynolds (turbulent shear stress, elevated around the point of distal jet detachment, became prominent during the systolic deceleration phase and was widely distributed over the large recirculation zone in the eccentric stenoses.
In vitro shear stress measurements using particle image velocimetry in a family of carotid artery models: effect of stenosis severity, plaque eccentricity, and ulceration.
Kefayati, Sarah; Milner, Jaques S; Holdsworth, David W; Poepping, Tamie L
Atherosclerotic disease, and the subsequent complications of thrombosis and plaque rupture, has been associated with local shear stress. In the diseased carotid artery, local variations in shear stress are induced by various geometrical features of the stenotic plaque. Greater stenosis severity, plaque eccentricity (symmetry) and plaque ulceration have been associated with increased risk of cerebrovascular events based on clinical trial studies. Using particle image velocimetry, the levels and patterns of shear stress (derived from both laminar and turbulent phases) were studied for a family of eight matched-geometry models incorporating independently varied plaque features - i.e. stenosis severity up to 70%, one of two forms of plaque eccentricity, and the presence of plaque ulceration). The level of laminar (ensemble-averaged) shear stress increased with increasing stenosis severity resulting in 2-16 Pa for free shear stress (FSS) and approximately double (4-36 Pa) for wall shear stress (WSS). Independent of stenosis severity, marked differences were found in the distribution and extent of shear stress between the concentric and eccentric plaque formations. The maximum WSS, found at the apex of the stenosis, decayed significantly steeper along the outer wall of an eccentric model compared to the concentric counterpart, with a 70% eccentric stenosis having 249% steeper decay coinciding with the large outer-wall recirculation zone. The presence of ulceration (in a 50% eccentric plaque) resulted in both elevated FSS and WSS levels that were sustained longer (∼20 ms) through the systolic phase compared to the non-ulcerated counterpart model, among other notable differences. Reynolds (turbulent) shear stress, elevated around the point of distal jet detachment, became prominent during the systolic deceleration phase and was widely distributed over the large recirculation zone in the eccentric stenoses.
Management of atherosclerotic renovascular disease after Cardiovascular Outcomes in Renal Atherosclerotic Lesions (CORAL).
Herrmann, Sandra M S; Saad, Ahmed; Textor, Stephen C
Many patients with occlusive atherosclerotic renovascular disease (ARVD) may be managed effectively with medical therapy for several years without endovascular stenting, as demonstrated by randomized, prospective trials including the Cardiovascular Outcomes in Renal Atherosclerotic Lesions (CORAL) trial, the Angioplasty and Stenting for Renal Artery Lesions (ASTRAL) trial and the Stent Placement and Blood Pressure and Lipid-Lowering for the Prevention of Progression of Renal Dysfunction Caused by Atherosclerotic Ostial Stenosis of the Renal Artery (STAR) and ASTRAL. These trials share the limitation of excluding subsets of patients with high-risk clinical presentations, including episodic pulmonary edema and rapidly progressing renal failure and hypertension. Although hemodynamically significant, ARVD can reduce renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate; adaptive mechanisms preserve both cortical and medullary oxygenation over a wide range of vascular occlusion. Progression of ARVD to severe vascular compromise eventually produces cortical hypoxia, however, associated with active inflammatory cytokine release and cellular infiltration of the renal parenchyma. In such cases ARVD produces a loss of glomerular filtration rate that no longer is reversible simply by restoring vessel patency with technically successful renal revascularization. Each of these trials reported adverse renal functional outcomes ranging between 16 and 22% over periods of 2-5 years of follow-up. Blood pressure control and medication adjustment may become more difficult with declining renal function and may prevent the use of angiotensin receptor blocker and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. The objective of this review is to evaluate the current management of ARVD for clinical nephrologists in the context of recent randomized clinical trials and experimental research. PMID:24723543
Oral biofilm models for mechanical plaque removal
Verkaik, Martinus J.; Busscher, Henk J.; Rustema-Abbing, Minie; Slomp, Anje M.; Abbas, Frank; van der Mei, Henny C.
In vitro plaque removal studies require biofilm models that resemble in vivo dental plaque. Here, we compare contact and non-contact removal of single and dual-species biofilms as well as of biofilms grown from human whole saliva in vitro using different biofilm models. Bacteria were adhered to a sa
Anti-Atherosclerotic Effects of a Phytoestrogen-Rich Herbal Preparation in Postmenopausal Women
Myasoedova, Veronika A.; Kirichenko, Tatyana V.; Melnichenko, Alexandra A.; Orekhova, Varvara A.; Ravani, Alessio; Poggio, Paolo; Sobenin, Igor A.; Bobryshev, Yuri V.; Orekhov, Alexander N.
The risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis progression is significantly increased after menopause, probably due to the decrease of estrogen levels. The use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for prevention of cardiovascular disease in older postmenopausal failed to meet expectations. Phytoestrogens may induce some improvements in climacteric symptoms, but their effect on the progression of atherosclerosis remains unclear. The reduction of cholesterol accumulation at the cellular level should lead to inhibition of the atherosclerotic process in the arterial wall. The inhibition of intracellular lipid deposition with isoflavonoids was suggested as the effective way for the prevention of plaque formation in the arterial wall. The aim of this double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was to investigate the effect of an isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation on atherosclerosis progression in postmenopausal women free of overt cardiovascular disease. One hundred fifty-seven healthy postmenopausal women (age 65 ± 6) were randomized to a 500 mg isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation containing tannins from grape seeds, green tea leaves, hop cone powder, and garlic powder, or placebo. Conventional cardiovascular risk factors and intima-media thickness of common carotid arteries (cIMT) were evaluated at the baseline and after 12 months of treatment. After 12-months follow-up, total cholesterol decreased by 6.3% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (p = 0.011) and by 5.2% in placebo recipients (p = 0.020); low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol decreased by 7.6% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (p = 0.040) and by 5.2% in placebo recipients (non-significant, NS); high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol decreased by 3.4% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (NS) and by 4.5% in placebo recipients (p = 0.038); triglycerides decreased by 6.0% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (NS) and by 7.1% in
Anti-Atherosclerotic Effects of a Phytoestrogen-Rich Herbal Preparation in Postmenopausal Women.
Myasoedova, Veronika A; Kirichenko, Tatyana V; Melnichenko, Alexandra A; Orekhova, Varvara A; Ravani, Alessio; Poggio, Paolo; Sobenin, Igor A; Bobryshev, Yuri V; Orekhov, Alexander N
The risk of cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis progression is significantly increased after menopause, probably due to the decrease of estrogen levels. The use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for prevention of cardiovascular disease in older postmenopausal failed to meet expectations. Phytoestrogens may induce some improvements in climacteric symptoms, but their effect on the progression of atherosclerosis remains unclear. The reduction of cholesterol accumulation at the cellular level should lead to inhibition of the atherosclerotic process in the arterial wall. The inhibition of intracellular lipid deposition with isoflavonoids was suggested as the effective way for the prevention of plaque formation in the arterial wall. The aim of this double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was to investigate the effect of an isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation on atherosclerosis progression in postmenopausal women free of overt cardiovascular disease. One hundred fifty-seven healthy postmenopausal women (age 65 ± 6) were randomized to a 500 mg isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation containing tannins from grape seeds, green tea leaves, hop cone powder, and garlic powder, or placebo. Conventional cardiovascular risk factors and intima-media thickness of common carotid arteries (cIMT) were evaluated at the baseline and after 12 months of treatment. After 12-months follow-up, total cholesterol decreased by 6.3% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (p = 0.011) and by 5.2% in placebo recipients (p = 0.020); low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol decreased by 7.6% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (p = 0.040) and by 5.2% in placebo recipients (non-significant, NS); high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol decreased by 3.4% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (NS) and by 4.5% in placebo recipients (p = 0.038); triglycerides decreased by 6.0% in isoflavonoid-rich herbal preparation recipients (NS) and by 7.1% in
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B. Sardjono
Full Text Available The Newcastle disease virus (NDV was isolated from a 3 months-old indigenous chicken (buras or kampung chicken which showed clinical signs of Newcastle disease (ND. For viral isolation a small part of the spleen and lung were inoculated into 10 days-old embryonated chicken eggs. The physical characteristics of the isolate (A/120 were studied. The hemagglutination of chicken red blood cell showed slow elution, thermostability of hemagglutinin at 56°C was 120 minutes. The vims was able to agglutinate horse erythrocytes but not those of sheep. The biological characteristics on mean death time (MDT of embryonated chicken egg and plaque morphology on chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF primary cell cultures were studied. The MDT was 56 hours, the isolate was velogenic NDV. There were three different plaque morphologies on CEF : 2 mm clear plaques, 1 mm clear plaques, and minute clear plaques which were visible only with microscopic examination.
Asociación entre el volumen de grasa epicárdica y las placas coronarias diagnosticadas por tomografía multicorte/ Associationbetweenepicardialfatvolume and coronary plaques diagnosedbymultislicecomputedtomography
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José A. Morán Quijada
Full Text Available Introduction: Coronary atherosclerotic disease is a major cause of death in Cuba and elsewhere. The volume of epicardial fat is considered a new cardiovascular risk factor because of its association with coronary atherogenesis. Objective: To determine, by multislice computed tomography, the association between epicardial fat volume and the presence of coronary atherosclerotic plaques. Method: A descriptive study was conducted with a universe of 130 patients with chest pain suggestive of ischemic heart disease, of which 117 were selected by opinion sampling. These patients underwent a calcium score study, a coronary angiography and a measurement of the epicardial fat volume. Results: Male patients predominated (54.7% and those aged 60-69 years (32.5%. A high volume of epicardial fat was found in 51.3% of patients, affecting 52.8% of women; 78.9% of patients with a calcium score between 100 and 399 UH had a high volume of epicardial fat, just as 71.2% of those with plaques and 100% of those with 4 or 5 plaques; 41% of patients had various types of plaque, which were mainly located in the anterior descending artery (88.1%. Conclusions: The measurement of the volume of epicardial fat is a useful tool to estimate the presence of coronary disease. When it was high, it was associated with older age, female gender and the presence of a higher calcium score, more plaques, more injuries and a greater involvement of the anterior descending artery.
Lipocalin (LCN 2 Mediates Pro-Atherosclerotic Processes and Is Elevated in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease.
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Raghav Oberoi
Full Text Available Lipocalin (LCN 2 is associated with multiple acute and chronic inflammatory diseases but the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we investigated whether LCN2 is released from macrophages and contributes to pro-atherosclerotic processes and whether LCN2 plasma levels are associated with the severity of coronary artery disease progression in humans.In an autocrine-paracrine loop, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α promoted the release of LCN2 from murine bone-marrow derived macrophages (BMDM and vice versa. Moreover, LCN2 stimulation of BMDM led to up-regulation of M1 macrophage markers. In addition, enhanced migration of monocytic J774A.1 cells towards LCN2 was observed. Furthermore, LCN2 increased the expression of the scavenger receptors Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1 as well as scavenger receptor class A-1 (SRA-1 and induced the conversion of macrophages to foam cells. In atherosclerotic lesions of low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (ldlr-/- mice fed a high fat, high cholesterol diet, LCN2 was found to be co-localized with macrophages in the shoulder region of the atherosclerotic plaque. In addition, LCN2 plasma levels were significantly increased in plasma samples of these mice. Finally, LCN2 plasma levels correlated with the severity of coronary artery disease (CAD in patients as determined by coronary angiography.Here we demonstrated that LCN2 plays a pivotal role in processes involved in atherogenesis by promoting polarization and migration of monocytic cells and development of macrophages towards foam cells. Moreover, LCN2 may be used as a prognostic marker to determine the status of CAD progression.
Carotid plaque signal differences among four kinds of T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging techniques: A histopathological correlation study
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Saito, Ayumi; Narumi, Shinsuke; Ohba, Hideki; Yamaguchi, Mao; Terayama, Yasuo [Iwate Medical University, Department of Neurology and Gerontology, Morioka (Japan); Sasaki, Makoto; Kudo, Kohsuke [Iwate Medical University, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Morioka (Japan); Ogasawara, Kuniaki; Kobayashi, Masakazu [Iwate Medical University, Department of Neurosurgery, Morioka (Japan); Hitomi, Jiro [Iwate Medical University, Department of Anatomy, Morioka (Japan)
Several magnetic resonance (MR) imaging techniques are used to examine atherosclerotic plaque of carotid arteries; however, the best technique for visualizing intraplaque characteristics has yet to be determined. Here, we directly compared four kinds of T1-weighted (T1W) imaging techniques with pathological findings in patients with carotid stenosis. A total of 31 patients who were candidates for carotid endarterectomy were prospectively examined using a 1.5-T MRI scanner, which produced four kinds of T1W images, including non-gated spin echo (SE), cardiac-gated black-blood (BB) fast-SE (FSE), magnetization-prepared rapid acquisition with gradient echo (MPRAGE), and source image of three-dimensional time-of-flight MR angiography (SI-MRA). The signal intensity of the carotid plaque was manually measured, and the contrast ratio (CR) against the adjacent muscle was calculated. CRs from the four imaging techniques were compared to each other and correlated with histopathological specimens. CRs of the carotid plaques mainly containing fibrous tissue, lipid/necrosis, and hemorrhage were significantly different with little overlaps (range: 0.92-1.15, 1.22-1.52, and 1.55-2.30, respectively) on non-gated SE. However, BB-FSE showed remarkable overlaps among the three groups (0.89-1.10, 1.07-1.23, and 1.01-1.42, respectively). MPRAGE could discriminate fibrous plaques from hemorrhagic plaques but not from lipid/necrosis-rich plaques: (0.77-1.07, 1.45-2.43, and 0.85-1.42, respectively). SI-MRA showed the same tendencies (1.01-1.39, 1.45-2.57, and 1.12-1.39, respectively). Among T1W MR imaging techniques, non-gated SE images can more accurately characterize intraplaque components in patients who underwent CEA when compared with cardiac-gated BB-FSE, MPRAGE, and SI-MRA images. (orig.)
Carotid plaque elasticity estimation using ultrasound elastography, MRI, and inverse FEA - A numerical feasibility study.
Nieuwstadt, H A; Fekkes, S; Hansen, H H G; de Korte, C L; van der Lugt, A; Wentzel, J J; van der Steen, A F W; Gijsen, F J H
The material properties of atherosclerotic plaques govern the biomechanical environment, which is associated with rupture-risk. We investigated the feasibility of noninvasively estimating carotid plaque component material properties through simulating ultrasound (US) elastography and in vivo magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and solving the inverse problem with finite element analysis. 2D plaque models were derived from endarterectomy specimens of nine patients. Nonlinear neo-Hookean models (tissue elasticity C1) were assigned to fibrous intima, wall (i.e., media/adventitia), and lipid-rich necrotic core. Finite element analysis was used to simulate clinical cross-sectional US strain imaging. Computer-simulated, single-slice in vivo MR images were segmented by two MR readers. We investigated multiple scenarios for plaque model elasticity, and consistently found clear separations between estimated tissue elasticity values. The intima C1 (160 kPa scenario) was estimated as 125.8 ± 19.4 kPa (reader 1) and 128.9 ± 24.8 kPa (reader 2). The lipid-rich necrotic core C1 (5 kPa) was estimated as 5.6 ± 2.0 kPa (reader 1) and 8.5 ± 4.5 kPa (reader 2). A scenario with a stiffer wall yielded similar results, while realistic US strain noise and rotating the models had little influence, thus demonstrating robustness of the procedure. The promising findings of this computer-simulation study stimulate applying the proposed methodology in a clinical setting. PMID:26130603
Association of postalimentary lipemia with atherosclerotic manifestations
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Tentor, J. [Departamento de Patologia Clínica, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP (Brazil); Nakamura, R.T. [Laboratório de Diagnóstico por Imagem, Campinas, SP (Brazil); Departamento de Radiologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP (Brazil); Gidlund, M. [Laboratório de Imunofisiopatologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP (Brazil); Barros-Mazon, S. [Departamento de Patologia Clínica, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP (Brazil); Harada, L.M. [Laboratório de Lípides, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP (Brazil); Zago, V.S.; Oba, J.F.; Faria, E.C. de [Departamento de Patologia Clínica, Faculdade de Ciências Médicas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP (Brazil)
We identified different lipemic and metabolic responses after the ingestion of a standardized meal by healthy adults and related them to atherosclerotic markers. Samples from 60 normolipidemic adults were collected before and after a liquid meal (40 g fat/m{sup 2} body surface) at 0, 2, 4, 6, and 8 h for measurements of lipids, free fatty acids (FFA), insulin, cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP), autoantibodies to epitopes of oxidized LDL (oxLDL Ab), lipolytic activities, and apolipoprotein E polymorphism. Mean carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) was determined by Doppler ultrasound. The volunteers were classified into early (N = 39) and late (N = 31) triacylglycerol (TAG) responders to the test meal. Late responders showed lower HDL cholesterol concentration at fasting and in the TAG peak, lower insulin and higher FFA concentrations compared to early responders. Multivariate regression analyses showed that mean cIMT was associated with gender (male) and age in early responders and by cholesterol levels at the 6th hour in late responders. oxLDL Ab were explained by lipoprotein lipase and negatively by hepatic lipase and oxLDL Ab (fasting period) by CETP (negative) and FFA (positive). This study is the first to identify a postalimentary insulin resistance state, combined with a reduced CETP response exclusively among late responders, and the identification of the regulators of postalimentary atherogenicity. Further research is required to determine the metabolic mechanisms described in the different postalimentary phenotypes observed in this study, as well as in different pathological states, as currently investigated in our laboratory.
Prediction of Viscoelastic Behavior of Blood Flow in Plaque Deposited Capillaries
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Muhammad Anwar Solangi
Full Text Available The paper investigates the viscoelastic behaviour of blood over low value of elasticity, to analyse the influence of inertia in the presence of elasticity. For viscoelastic fluids shear-thinning and strainsoftening PTT (Phan-Thien/Tanner constitutive model is employed to identify the influence of elasticity. The computational method adopted is based on a finite element semi-implicit time stepping Taylor- Galerkin/pressure-correction scheme. Simulations are conducted via atherosclerotic vessels along with various percentages of deposition at distinct values of Reynolds numbers. The numerical simulations are performed for recirculation flow structure and development of recirculation length to investigate the impact of atherosclerosis on partially blocked plaque deposited vessels.
The desmosomal plaque and the cytoskeleton.
Franke, W W; Cowin, P; Schmelz, M; Kapprell, H P
Two major plasma membrane domains are involved in the architectural organization of the cytoskeleton. Both are junctions of the adherens category characterized by the presence of dense plaques associated with the cytoplasmic surface of their membranes. The plaques serve as specific anchorage structures for two different types of cytoplasmic filaments. Intermediate-sized filaments (IF) of several types, i.e. cytokeratin IF in epithelial cells, desmin IF in cardiac myocytes and vimentin IF in arachnoidal cells of meninges, meningiomas and several other cells, attach to the desmosomal plaques, whereas actin-containing microfilaments associate with non-desmosomal adhering junctions such as the zonula adherens, fascia adherens and punctum adherens. The plaques of both kinds of adhering junctions contain a common acidic polypeptide of Mr 83,000 identical to 'band 5 protein' of bovine snout epidermal desmosomes. However, other plaque components are mutually exclusive to one of the two subclasses of adhering junctions. The desmosomal plaque structure, which does not contain vinculin and alpha-actinin, comprises representatives of cytoplasmic, non-membrane-integrated proteins such as desmoplakin(s) and the cytoplasmic portions of transmembrane glycoproteins such as 'band 3 glycoprotein'. The analysis of both categories of junction-associated plaques should provide a basis for understanding the establishment and the dynamics of junction-cytoskeleton interaction.
Multidetector row computed tomography may accurately estimate plaque vulnerability. Does MDCT accurately estimate plaque vulnerability? (Pro)
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Over the past decade, multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) has become the most reliable and established of the noninvasive examination techniques for detecting coronary heart disease. Now MDCT is chasing intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) in terms of spatial resolution. Among the components of vulnerable plaque, MDCT may detect lipid-rich plaque, the lipid pool, and calcified spots using computed tomography number. Plaque components are detected by MDCT with high accuracy compared with IVUS and angioscopy when assessing vulnerable plaque. The TWINS study and TOGETHAR trial demonstrated that angioscopic loss of yellow color occurred independently of volumetric plaque change by statin therapy. These 2 studies showed that plaque stabilization and regression reflect independent processes mediated by different mechanisms and time course. Noncalcified plaque and/or low-density plaque was found to be the strongest predictor of cardiac events, regardless of lesion severity, and act as a potential marker of plaque vulnerability. MDCT may be an effective tool for early triage of patients with chest pain who have a normal electrocardiogram (ECG) and cardiac enzymes in the emergency department. MDCT has the potential ability to analyze coronary plaque quantitatively and qualitatively if some problems are resolved. MDCT may become an essential tool for detecting and preventing coronary artery disease in the future. (author)
Atherosclerotic Renal Artery Stenosis and Hypertension: Pragmatism, Pitfalls, and Perspectives.
Bavishi, Chirag; de Leeuw, Peter W; Messerli, Franz H
For many years and even decades, a diagnostic work-up to look for a secondary form of hypertension, particularly of renovascular origin, has been a central tenet in medicine. Atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis is considered the most common cause of renovascular hypertension. However, advances in understanding the complex pathophysiology of this condition and the recently documented futility of renal revascularization bring into question whether atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis truly causes "renovascular hypertension." From a clinical point of view, a clear distinction should be made between hypertension associated with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis and hypertension caused by renal artery stenosis-induced activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Most patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis do not have a form of hypertension that is remediable or improved by angioplasty; to expose them to the cost, inconvenience, and risk of a diagnostic work-up add up to little more than a wild goose chase. However, with very few exceptions, medical therapy with antihypertensives and statins remains the cornerstone for the management of patients with atherosclerotic renal artery stenosis and hypertension. PMID:26522797
Plaque Size Is Decreased but M1 Macrophage Polarization and Rupture Related Metalloproteinase Expression Are Maintained after Deleting T-Bet in ApoE Null Mice.
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Aikaterini Tsaousi
Full Text Available Thelper1 (Th1 lymphocytes have been previously implicated in atherosclerotic plaque growth but their role in plaque vulnerability to rupture is less clear. We investigated whether T-bet knockout that prevents Th1 lymphocyte differentiation modulates classical (M1 macrophage activation or production of matrix degrading metalloproteinases (MMPs and their tissue inhibitors, TIMPs.We studied the effect of T-bet deletion in apolipoproteinE (ApoE knockout mice fed a high fat diet (HFD or normal chow diet (ND. Transcript levels of M1/M2 macrophage polarization markers, selected MMPs and TIMPs were measured by RT-qPCR in macrophages isolated from subcutaneous granulomas or in whole aortae. Immunohistochemistry of aortic sinus (AS and brachiocephalic artery (BCA plaques was conducted to quantify protein expression of the same factors. Deletion of T-bet decreased mRNA for the M1 marker NOS-2 in granuloma macrophages but levels of M2 markers (CD206, arginase-1 and Ym-1, MMPs-2, -9, -12, -13, -14 and -19 or TIMPs-1 to -3 were unchanged. No mRNA differences were observed in aortic extracts from mice fed a HFD for 12 weeks. Moreover, AS and BCA plaques were similarly sized between genotypes, and had similar areas stained for NOS-2, COX-2, MMP-12 and MMP-14 proteins. T-bet deletion increased MMP-13, MMP-14 and arginase-1 in AS plaques. After 35 weeks of ND, T-bet deletion reduced the size of AS and BCA plaques but there were no differences in the percentage areas stained for M1 or M2 markers, MMPs-12, -13, -14, or TIMP-3.Absence of Th1 lymphocytes is associated with reduced plaque size in ApoE knockout mice fed a normal but not high fat diet. In either case, M1 macrophage polarization and expression of several MMPs related to plaque instability are either maintained or increased.
The added value of longitudinal black-blood cardiovascular magnetic resonance angiography in the cross sectional identification of carotid atherosclerotic ulceration
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Hippe Daniel S
Full Text Available Abstract Background Carotid atherosclerotic ulceration is a significant source of stroke. This study evaluates the efficacy of adding longitudinal black-blood (BB cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR angiography to cross-sectional CMR images in the identification of carotid atherosclerotic ulceration. Methods Thirty-two subjects (30 males and two females with ages between 48 and 83 years scheduled for carotid endarterectomy were imaged on a 1.5T GE Signa scanner using multisequence [3D time-of-flight, T1, proton density, T2, contrast enhanced T1], cross-sectional CMR images and longitudinal BB CMR angiography (0.625 × 0.625 mm/pixel. Two rounds of review (round 1: cross-sectional CMR images alone and round 2: cross-sectional CMR images plus longitudinal BB CMR angiography were conducted for the presence and volume measurements of ulceration. Ulceration was defined as a distinct depression into the plaque containing blood flow signal on cross-sectional CMR and longitudinal BB CMR angiography. Results Of the 32 plaques examined by histology, 17 contained 21 ulcers. Using the longitudinal BB CMR angiography sequence in addition to the cross-sectional CMR images in round 2, the sensitivity improved to 80% for ulcers of at least 6 mm3 in volume by histology and 52.4% for all ulcers, compared to 30% and 23.8% in round 1, respectively. There was a slight decline in specificity from 88.2% to 82.3%, though both the positive and negative predictive values increased modestly from 71.4% to 78.6% and from 48.4% to 58.3%, respectively. Conclusion The addition of longitudinal BB CMR angiography to multisequence cross-sectional CMR images increases accuracy in the identification of carotid atherosclerotic ulceration.
Value of detection of atherosclerotic lesions using autologous labelled platelets
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Sinzinger, H.; Silberbauer, K.; Fitscha, P.; Kaliman, J. (Vienna Univ. (Austria).