Pulmonary artery endothelial cell phenotypic alterations in a large animal model of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations after the Glenn shunt.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Longevity of the superior cavopulmonary connection (SCPC) is limited by the development of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVM). The goal of this study was to determine whether phenotypic changes in pulmonary artery endothelial cells (PAEC) that favor angiogenesis occur with PAVM formation.

Methods

A superior vena cava to right pulmonary artery connection was constructed in 5 pigs. Pulmonary arteries were harvested at 6 to 8 weeks after surgery to establish cultures of PAEC and smooth muscle cells, to determine cell proliferation, gene expression, and tubule formation. Abundance of proteins related to angiogenesis was measured in lung tissue.

Results

Contrast echocardiography revealed right-to-left shunting, consistent with PAVM formation. While the

SUBMITTER: Kavarana MN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3934798 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature