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Atherosclerotic plaque rupture in the apolipoprotein E knockout mouse
1Bristol Heart Institute, University of Bristol, Level 7, Bristol Royal Infirmary, BS2 8HW, Bristol, UK.
Atherosclerosis
|February 13, 2001
Summary
Researchers developed a new animal model for studying atherosclerotic plaque rupture. Apolipoprotein E knockout mice on a high-fat diet showed reproducible plaque ruptures, aiding research into heart attacks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Animal Models of Disease
- Atherosclerosis
Background:
- Atherosclerotic plaque rupture is a primary cause of heart attacks.
- Existing animal models do not reliably replicate plaque rupture.
- A suitable model is crucial for understanding and treating plaque rupture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a reproducible animal model for atherosclerotic plaque rupture.
- To investigate the characteristics and location of plaque rupture in a specific mouse model.
Main Methods:
- Apolipoprotein E knockout mice were fed a high-fat diet (21% lard, 0.15% cholesterol) for up to 14 months.
- Vascular branching points in the carotid arteries and aortas were examined.
- Plaque rupture and associated thrombus were analyzed using histology and immunocytochemistry.
Main Results:
- Atherosclerotic plaque rupture with lumenal thrombus was observed in mice on the high-fat diet.
- Ruptures predominantly occurred at the brachiocephalic artery branching point.
- Ruptured plaques featured fragmented caps, lipid-rich cores, intraplaque hemorrhage, and smooth muscle cell loss.
Conclusions:
- Long-term high-fat feeding of apolipoprotein E knockout mice provides a useful model for atherosclerotic plaque rupture.
- This model facilitates research into the mechanisms and potential treatments of plaque rupture and myocardial infarction.