Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 15, 2026

High-Resolution Three-Dimensional Imaging of the Footpad Vasculature in a Murine Hindlimb Gangrene Model
08:16

High-Resolution Three-Dimensional Imaging of the Footpad Vasculature in a Murine Hindlimb Gangrene Model

Published on: March 16, 2022

[Pathogenesis of varicose ulcers of the lower extremities]

V K Gostishchev, A M Khokhlov, T A Vorobeĭchik

    Khirurgiia
    |May 1, 1990
    PubMed

    Insights

    In patients with lower limb varicosity, elevated cathepsin enzyme activity contributes to skin destruction and ulcer formation. Treatment with aescusan reduced this activity, suggesting a protective effect on cellular membranes.

    Area of Science:

    • Biochemistry
    • Dermatology
    • Pathophysiology

    Context:

    • Lower limb varicosity is associated with significant skin damage and ulceration.
    • The precise biochemical pathways leading to skin destruction in these patients are not fully understood.
    • Cathepsins, a group of enzymes, are implicated in tissue degradation.

    Purpose:

    • To investigate the role of cathepsin enzymes (A, B, C, and D) in the biochemical mechanisms of skin destruction and ulcer formation in patients with lower limb varicosity.
    • To assess the impact of aescusan treatment on cathepsin activity in affected skin.
    • To elucidate the potential protective mechanisms of aescusan on cellular structures.

    Summary:

    • Cathepsin A, B, C, and D activity was measured in the skin of 57 patients with lower limb varicosity.
    • Significantly increased activity of cathepsin D (183.8%), cathepsin B (140.2%), and cathepsin B (239%) was observed in the lower leg.
    • Authors concluded that cathepsins, particularly cathepsin D, play a key role in skin destruction, with aescusan treatment reducing their activity by 15.4-24.1% and protecting lysosomal membranes.

    Impact:

    • This study identifies specific cathepsin enzymes as key mediators of skin destruction in lower limb varicosity.
    • The findings provide biochemical evidence for the therapeutic efficacy of aescusan in managing skin complications associated with venous insufficiency.
    • Understanding the role of cathepsins may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for preventing and treating venous ulcers.

    More Related Videos

    Occlusion of the Great and Small Saphenous Vein Using Copolymeric Glue Based on N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate and Methacryloxy Sulfolane08:05

    Occlusion of the Great and Small Saphenous Vein Using Copolymeric Glue Based on N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate and Methacryloxy Sulfolane

    Published on: December 9, 2022

    Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis06:45

    Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis

    Published on: February 10, 2023

    Related Concept Videos

    Veins of Lower Limbs01:15

    Veins of Lower Limbs

    The human body consists of an intricate network of veins responsible for the crucial task of blood drainage from the lower limbs. These veins can be categorized into two main types: deep veins and superficial veins.
    Formed by the union of the medial and lateral plantar veins, the posterior tibial vein, rising through the calf muscle, assimilates the fibular vein. The anterior tibial vein, a superior extension of the foot's dorsalis pedis vein, merges with the posterior tibial vein at the knee,...
    Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction01:24

    Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction

    Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
    Varicose Veins I: Introduction01:26

    Varicose Veins I: Introduction

    Varicose veins, or varicosities, are abnormally dilated and twisted superficial veins caused by venous valve incompetence. This condition commonly affects the lower extremities, especially the saphenous veins, due to the higher pressure from prolonged standing and walking. However, varicosities can also occur in other areas, such as the esophagus, vulva, spermatic cords, and anorectal region.Etiology and typesPrimary varicose veins, often idiopathic, are more common in women due to inherent...
    Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:26

    Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

    Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
    Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction01:30

    Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction

    Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...
    Diabetic Foot Ulcer01:31

    Diabetic Foot Ulcer

    Definition A diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a chronic, non-healing wound that develops in individuals with diabetes. It typically occurs on pressure-bearing areas such as the heel, metatarsal heads, or hallux, and carries a high risk of infection and amputation.Pathophysiology • The development of DFUs can be explained by four interconnected mechanisms: neuropathy, ischemia, infection, and impaired wound healing. • Neuropathy is the most common factor. Sensory neuropathy reduces pain perception,...