Blockade of interleukin-17A results in reduced atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice.

ABSTRACT:

Background

T cells play an important role during the immune response that accompanies atherosclerosis. To date, the role for interleukin (IL)-17A in atherogenesis is not well defined. Here, we tested the hypothesis that atherosclerosis-prone conditions induce the differentiation of IL-17A-producing T cells, which in turn promote atherosclerosis.

Methods and results

IL-17A was found to be elevated in the plasma and tissues of apolipoprotein E-deficient (Apoe(-/-)) mice. IL-17A-expressing T cells were significantly increased in the aortas, spleen, and lamina propria of aged Apoe(-/-) mice compared with age-matched C57BL/6 mice. IL-17A(+) T cells resided in both adventitia and aortas of aged Apoe(-/-) mice fed a chow diet. Elevated levels of IL-17A(+) T cells were also detected

SUBMITTER: Smith E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2929562 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature