Osteoprotegerin, pericytes and bone-like vascular calcification are associated with carotid plaque stability.

ABSTRACT:

Background and purpose

Vascular calcification, recapitulating bone formation, has a profound impact on plaque stability. The aim of the present study was to determine the influence of bone-like vascular calcification (named osteoid metaplasia = OM) and of osteoprotegerin on plaque stability.

Methods

Tissue from carotid endarterectomies were analysed for the presence of calcification and signs of vulnerability according to AHA grading system. Osteoprotegerin (OPG), pericytes and endothelial cells were sought using immuno-histochemistry. Symptoms and preoperative imaging findings (CT-scan, MRI and Doppler-scan) were analyzed. Human pericytes were cultured to evaluate their ability to secrete OPG and to influence mineralization in the plaque.

Results

Seventy-three caroti

SUBMITTER: Davaine JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4178031 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature