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Tenascin expression is associated with a chronic inflammatory process in abdominal aortic aneurysms
1Department of Surgery, University of Oulu.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|November 14, 1997
Summary
Tenascin, an extracellular matrix glycoprotein, is present in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) disease. Its expression is linked to inflammatory cells and neovascularization, suggesting a role in AAA development.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
- Extracellular Matrix Biology
Background:
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) is a life-threatening condition.
- The extracellular matrix plays a crucial role in vascular health and disease.
- Tenascin, a large oligomeric glycoprotein, is a component of the extracellular matrix.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence of tenascin in AAA disease.
- To investigate the potential pathophysiologic role of tenascin in AAA development.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis of tenascin in AAA patient samples (n=17).
- Comparison with samples from aortoiliac occlusive disease (AOD) patients (n=6) and normal controls (n=1).
- In situ hybridization to identify tenascin mRNA synthesis sites.
Main Results:
- Tenascin immunoreactivity was significantly higher in the adventitial layer of AAAs compared to AODs.
- Strong tenascin staining in AAAs correlated with mononuclear inflammatory cell infiltration and neovascularization.
- Tenascin mRNA was detected in AAA tissue samples.
Conclusions:
- Tenascin is expressed in AAA disease and is associated with inflammation.
- Tenascin's adhesive properties may facilitate monocyte transmigration into the aortic wall.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate tenascin's role in AAA pathogenesis.