[Localization of fibronectin in atherosclerotic lesions by immunohistochemistry and immunoelectron microscopy]

This paper reports the results of a study on the distribution of fibronectin (FN), its form, character and source in atherosclerotic lesions, using immunohistochemistry (PAP method) and immunoelectron microscopic technique. The results showed that large amounts of FN were localized in fatty streaks, gelatinous lesions and early atherosclerotic plaques. The intima smooth muscle cells in atherosclerotic lesions synthesized more FN, and it is likely that FN represents a new marker of smooth muscle cell modulated from "contractile" to "synthetic" state. With the maturation of atherosclerotic plaque, FN did not fill the whole plaque but was concentrated only in the fibrous cap surface and basocentral part of the atheroma. We also proved that procollagen III peptide (PIIIP) distribution in atherosclerotic plaque was similar to that of FN.