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CD44 regulates arteriogenesis in mice and is differentially expressed in patients with poor and good
N van Royen1, M Voskuil, I Hoefer
1Department of Cardiology, Room B2-114, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. n.vanroyen@amc.uva.nl
Circulation
|March 17, 2004
Summary
CD44 glycoprotein is crucial for arteriogenesis, the growth of collateral arteries. Its deficiency severely impairs this process, with lower expression seen in patients with poor collateralization.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Arteriogenesis, the development of collateral arteries, is orchestrated by monocytes supplying growth factors.
- CD44 glycoproteins are implicated in leukocyte extravasation and growth factor signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of CD44 in the process of arteriogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a murine hind-limb model to study arteriogenesis.
- Assessed CD44 expression and its impact on leukocyte trafficking and growth factor levels.
- Analyzed CD44 expression in monocytes from coronary artery disease patients.
Main Results:
- CD44 expression significantly increased during collateral artery growth in mice.
- Arteriogenesis was severely impaired in CD44-deficient mice, with reduced leukocyte recruitment and growth factor expression (FGF-2, PDGF-B).
- Reduced maximal CD44 expression on monocytes correlated with impaired collateral artery formation in human patients.
Conclusions:
- This study demonstrates the pivotal role of CD44 in arteriogenesis.
- CD44 deficiency significantly impedes collateral artery development.
- Lower CD44 expression on monocytes is associated with poor collateralization in patients with coronary artery disease.
