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Receptor Autoradiography Protocol for the Localized Visualization of Angiotensin II Receptors
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Angiotensin type 2 receptor is expressed in human atherosclerotic lesions

Maria E Johansson1, Björn Fagerberg, Göran Bergström

  • 1Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine/Clinical Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden.

Journal of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System : JRAAS
|April 12, 2008
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2-receptor) is present in human atherosclerotic plaques, but its expression does not appear to play a significant functional role in the disease progression or plaque composition.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Research
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Atherosclerosis Pathophysiology

Background:

  • The angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AT2-receptor) is found in animal models of atherosclerosis.
  • Its presence and function in human atherosclerotic plaques are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate AT2-receptor expression in human atherosclerotic plaques.
  • To explore the functional role of AT2-receptor in atherosclerosis.
  • To determine if angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) treatment influences AT2-receptor expression.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of carotid atherosclerotic plaques from 14 patients.
  • Immunohistochemistry to assess smooth muscle cells, macrophages, collagen, and AT2-receptor.
  • Comparison between patients treated with ARBs and those without renin-angiotensin system intervention.

Main Results:

  • AT2-receptor expression was consistently observed in all human atherosclerotic plaque specimens.
  • AT2-receptor levels correlated with macrophage presence (p<0.01).
  • ARB treatment did not alter AT2-receptor levels or plaque composition.

Conclusions:

  • AT2-receptor is expressed in human atherosclerotic plaques.
  • No functionally significant role for AT2-receptor expression was identified.
  • Evidence suggests ARB treatment does not regulate AT2-receptor expression in these plaques.

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