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Adhesion molecule expression in symptomatic and asymptomatic carotid stenosis
K Nuotio1, P J Lindsberg, O Carpén
1Neuroscience Program, Biomedicum Helsinki, Finland. Krista.Nuotio@Hus.fi
Neurology
|June 25, 2003
Summary
Symptomatic carotid plaques show reduced expression of adhesion molecules in the intima-media, contrary to previous findings. This suggests cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) may not drive symptoms in advanced carotid artery disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Immunology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Cellular adhesion molecules (CAMs) are implicated in the development and symptoms of atherosclerotic carotid plaques (CPs).
- Previous research suggests a significant role for CAMs in the pathophysiology of carotid artery disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the specific role of CAMs in symptom generation among patients with advanced carotid artery disease.
- To compare CAM expression in symptomatic versus asymptomatic carotid plaques.
Main Methods:
- Immunostaining of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), P-selectin, and E-selectin in carotid plaque specimens from 92 patients.
- Semiquantitative analysis of CAMs in the endothelium and intima-media.
- ELISA analysis of plasma concentrations for soluble ICAM-1 and soluble VCAM-1.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in endothelial expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, P-selectin, or E-selectin between symptomatic and asymptomatic CPs.
- Lower expression of ICAM-1 in the intima-media of symptomatic CPs compared to asymptomatic ones (p=0.022).
- Plasma levels of soluble ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 did not correlate with symptom status.
Conclusions:
- Symptomatic carotid artery disease is not associated with increased endothelial or circulating adhesion molecule expression.
- Reduced intima-media expression of ICAM-1 in symptomatic plaques suggests a complex role for CAMs, differing from prior studies.