Impaired mitochondrial respiration in human carotid plaque atherosclerosis: A potential role for Pink1 in vascular smooth muscle cell energetics.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

DNA damage and mitochondrial dysfunction are thought to play an essential role in ageing and the energetic decline of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) essential for maintaining plaque integrity. We aimed to better understand VSMCs and identify potentially useful compensatory pathways that could extend their lifespan. Moreover, we wanted to assess if defects in mitochondrial respiration exist in human atherosclerotic plaques and to identify the appropriate markers that may reflect a switch in VSMC energy metabolism.

Methods

Human plaque tissue and cells were assessed for composition and evidence of DNA damage, repair capacity and mitochondrial dysfunction. Fresh plaque tissue was evaluated using high resolution oxygen respirometry to assess oxidative m

SUBMITTER: Docherty CK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6565844 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature