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Protective effects of basic fibroblast growth factor in early atherosclerosis
Isabelle Six1, Frédéric Mouquet, Delphine Corseaux
1Centre Hospitalier de Lille, France.
Growth Factors (Chur, Switzerland)
|November 3, 2004
Summary
Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) improved early atherosclerosis in rabbits by enhancing endothelial function and reducing plaque inflammation. However, these benefits diminished with longer treatment durations.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Molecular Biology
- Experimental Pathology
Background:
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has a dual role in atherosclerosis, potentially promoting smooth muscle cell growth but also improving endothelial function.
- Previous research suggests bFGF may counteract endothelial dysfunction in experimental models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of systemic, chronic basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) administration on atherosclerotic plaque development in a rabbit model.
Main Methods:
- Rabbits received bFGF or placebo alongside a cholesterol diet for 5 or 10 weeks, with assessments of in vitro reactivity, VCAM-1 expression, and plaque development.
- A second protocol involved a lower cholesterol diet and monthly bFGF administration.
Main Results:
- Five weeks of bFGF treatment improved endothelial function, reduced VCAM-1 expression, and decreased plaque macrophage content.
- These beneficial effects were not sustained at 10 weeks.
- A second protocol showed similar positive outcomes at 3 months.
Conclusions:
- Early-stage experimental atherosclerosis benefits from bFGF administration, showing improved vascular structure and function.
- Findings offer insights into growth factor roles in atherosclerosis and potential human arterial effects.