Phosphatase and tensin analog expression in arterial atherosclerotic lesions

Phosphatase and tensin analog (PTEN) gene mutation has been proven for pro-inflammatory property and proliferative potential through tyrosine kinase pathway. We studied mutated PTEN for its pathogenetic association in arterial atherosclerosis.

The objective was to study mutation of PTEN by immunohistochemical method in arterial atherosclerotic lesions and correlate with grades of atherosclerosis, smooth muscle migration in intima, degree of inflammation and Framingham heart study risk factors.

Human, Prospective Clinical study.

We studied patients with arterial occlusive disease diagnosed by Doppler ultrasonography over a 2-year period. Immunohistochemistry was performed with mouse monoclonal antibodies for PTEN and smooth muscle actin (SMA).

Chi-square test.

Aorta was the single most common vessel affected (21%). Mean age of patients studied was 48.6 years and 80% were male. Mutant PTEN was associated with higher grades of atherosclerotic lesions (P < 0.0001) graded by American Heart Association classification and with smooth muscle proliferation and migration in intima (P < 0.0001). No statistically significant association with the vessel wall inflammation and other risk factors of atherosclerosis.