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Collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans in aortic aneurysms
K Sobolewski1, M Wolańska, E Bańkowski
1Department of Biochemistry, Medical Academy of Białystok, Poland.
Acta Biochimica Polonica
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Human abdominal aorta walls and aneurysm walls have similar collagen but less elastin. Aneurysmal collagen shows decreased solubility and EDTA susceptibility, with altered glycosaminoglycan ratios, impacting aneurysm pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Vascular biology
- Biochemistry of connective tissues
Background:
- Atherosclerosis can lead to abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs).
- Understanding the extracellular matrix composition of AAA walls is crucial for pathogenesis research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the collagen and elastin content and characteristics in normal human abdominal aorta walls versus AAA walls.
- To analyze the glycosaminoglycan composition in normal and AAA tissues.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative analysis of collagen and elastin.
- Assessment of collagen solubility and susceptibility to EDTA.
- Analysis of glycosaminoglycan composition.
Main Results:
- Collagen amounts were similar in normal and AAA walls, but collagen solubility and EDTA susceptibility were reduced in AAA.
- Elastin content was significantly lower in AAA walls compared to normal aorta.
- Total glycosaminoglycans were slightly decreased in AAA, with increased chondroitin sulfate and significantly decreased heparan sulfate.
Conclusions:
- Altered collagen properties and reduced elastin contribute to AAA wall fragility.
- Changes in glycosaminoglycan profiles may play a role in AAA development and progression.