Quantification of Atherosclerosis in Mice

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular research
• Immunology
• Pathology

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global cause of mortality.
• Atherosclerosis, a primary driver of CVD, involves chronic inflammation and lipid accumulation.
• Previous research in mouse models has identified key roles for cholesterol and inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a standardized protocol for evaluating atherosclerosis in mouse models.
• To enable comprehensive lesion analysis at multiple arterial sites within a single animal.
• To improve reproducibility and reduce variability in experimental atherosclerosis studies.

Main Methods:

• Detailed technical description for evaluating atherosclerotic lesions.
• Focuses on lesion quantification in the aortic root, aortic arch, and brachiocephalic artery.
• Designed for efficient use of limited biological material, such as in genetically modified mouse studies.

Main Results:

• The protocol allows for simultaneous assessment of atherosclerosis at critical vascular sites.
• Standardization of lesion analysis minimizes experimental variability.
• Increases the reproducibility of findings in atherosclerosis research.

Conclusions:

• This protocol offers a valuable tool for researchers studying atherosclerosis pathogenesis.
• It is particularly useful for characterizing atherosclerosis in genetically modified mouse models.
• Standardized analysis is crucial for advancing our understanding and treatment of atherosclerosis.