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Prothrombin-related antigens in human aortic intima
E B Smith1, L Crosbie, S Carey
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University of Aberdeen Medical School, Scotland.
Seminars in Thrombosis and Hemostasis
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Active thrombin found in arterial intima may drive atherosclerosis by promoting fibrin deposition and smooth muscle cell growth. This suggests thrombin is a key factor in the development of this cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Atherosclerosis Research
- Hemostasis and Thrombosis
Background:
- Plasma proteins and fibrinogen-related antigens are present in normal and atherosclerotic intima.
- Fibrinogen undergoes degradation and conversion to fibrin within the intima, which is subsequently lysed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and potential role of clotting factors, specifically thrombin and antithrombin III (AT III), within the arterial intima.
- To determine if active thrombin contributes to atherogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of intima extracts using sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting.
- Detection of prothrombin, thrombin, and AT III using specific antisera.
- Biochemical detection of insoluble fibrin via plasmin incubation.
Main Results:
- Insoluble fibrin and soluble fibrinogen/fibrin degradation products were detected in intima samples.
- Antisera to prothrombin identified bands corresponding to free thrombin and prothrombin.
- A high molecular mass band reacting with anti-serum to AT III was observed, but not a thrombin:AT III complex.
Conclusions:
- Active thrombin is present in the arterial intima.
- Intimal thrombin may be a significant atherogenic factor, contributing to fibrin deposition and smooth muscle cell proliferation.
- Further research into thrombin's role in atherosclerosis is warranted.