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Apolipoprotein(A) expression in intracranial aneurysms.
John Caird1, Maureen Burke, Gareth Roberts
1Department of Anatomy, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland.
Neurosurgery
|March 27, 2003
Summary
Apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)] is found in intracranial aneurysms, even without atherosclerosis. This suggests apo(a) may play a role in aneurysm formation and growth.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cardiovascular Science
- Pathology
Background:
- Elevated lipoprotein(a) is a risk factor for atherosclerosis (AS) and linked to intracranial aneurysms.
- The role of AS in aneurysm development and progression is not fully understood.
- Apolipoprotein(a) [apo(a)], the active component of lipoprotein(a), is found in atherosclerotic but not normal Circle of Willis vessels.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of apo(a) in intracranial aneurysms independently of AS.
- To explore the potential role of apo(a) in aneurysm formation and growth.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis using a monoclonal anti-apo(a) antibody.
- Examination of 25 intracranial aneurysms and 23 feeding vessels.
- Comparison with control samples including Circle of Willis arteries with and without AS, cavernous angiomas, and arteriovenous malformations.
Main Results:
- Apo(a) was detected in 32% of aneurysms with AS and also in aneurysms without AS.
- Apo(a) was present in 86% of feeding vessels.
- Apo(a) was found in Circle of Willis arteries with AS and in some without AS, but absent in cavernous angiomas.
Conclusions:
- Apo(a) expression in intracranial aneurysms can occur independently of AS.
- Apo(a) in feeding vessels may contribute to early aneurysm formation.
- Transmural apo(a) deposition suggests involvement in aneurysm growth through injury and repair cycles.