Immunoelectron-microscopic localization of S-protein/vitronectin in human atherosclerotic wall

S-protein/vitronectin is a multifunctional glycoprotein interacting with both complement activation and coagulation pathways. Its presence was investigated in 5 femoral and 5 iliac atherosclerotic human arteries, obtained at surgery, by immunoelectron microscopy using an affinity purified rabbit IgG specific for human S-protein/vitronectin. The immunoelectron dense specific deposits were found in both intimal thickenings and fibrous plaques in association with elastic fibers, collagen bundles and cell debris in the vicinity of elastin. Cell debris embedded in the collagen matrix were S-protein/vitronectin negative. S-protein/vitronectin was also absent on intact cells, lipid droplets and cholesterol clefts. All cell debris, however, was positive for C5b-9 deposits suggesting that complement activation had occurred at these sites with or without S-protein/vitronectin interaction. S-protein/vitronectin may play a role in the arterial wall defence by restricting the extent of complement activation.