Infrared Spectroscopic Study and Mathematical Simulations of Carotid Atherosclerosis

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Spectroscopy
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Atherosclerosis pathogenesis, treatment, and prevention are critical research areas.
• Computational models are needed to link risk factors to molecular changes in atherosclerosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a computational simulation model linking atherosclerotic risk factors to pathogenic molecular structural changes.
• To predict the association between molecular changes and carotid artery stenosis.

Main Methods:

• Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used to analyze carotid artery samples from 56 patients (60-85 years old).
• 3D-Doppler echogram screening was performed preoperatively.
• Infrared spectral analysis identified marker bands associated with aldehyde formation and advanced glycation end products.

Main Results:

• FTIR analysis revealed specific marker bands (e.g., 1,744 cm^-1 for aldehydes, 1,050-1,169 cm^-1 for advanced glycation end products).
• Calcium phosphate salt accumulation correlated with increased stenosis.
• Stenosis risk critical point identified at approximately 45%; risk dramatically increases over 60-70%.

Conclusions:

• Carotid artery stenosis over 45% reduces blood flow rate.
• Stenosis exceeding 65% significantly increases hemodynamic disturbance.
• A parallel increase in the rate of ischemic stroke and major adverse cardiovascular events was observed with severe stenosis.