Transcriptome analysis reveals a role of interferon-gamma in human neointima formation

The most effective immediate cure for coronary stenosis is stent-supported angioplasty. Restenosis due to neointima proliferation represents a major limitation. We investigated the expression of 2435 genes in atherectomy specimens and blood cells of patients with restenosis, normal coronary artery specimens, and cultured human smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Of the 223 differentially expressed genes, 37 genes indicated activation of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) signaling in neointimal SMCs. In cultured SMCs, IFN-gamma inhibited apoptosis. Genetic disruption of IFN-gamma signaling in a mouse model of restenosis significantly reduced the vascular proliferative response. Our data suggest an important role of IFN-gamma in the control of neointima proliferation.