Enhanced Expression of CD44 Variants in Human Atheroma and Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

摘要: CD44, a polymorphic hyaluronate receptor, may participate in chronic inflammation. We hypothesized that CD44 variants contribute to the development of arterial diseases. levels vary normal and diseased tissues following order: unaffected arteries < fibrous plaques ≤ abdominal aortic aneurysm atheromatous plaques; correlate with macrophage content. Furthermore, plaque microvessels express anti-CD44v3 or anti-CD44v6 treatment reduces endothelial cell proliferation but not apoptosis vitro, suggesting functionality these receptors. Endothelial cells CD44H CD44v6 after exposure interleukin-1β tumor necrosis factor-α. Macrophages, major source abundant only also CD44v4/5, CD44v6, CD44v7/8, isoforms distinctively regulated by proinflammatory cytokines. Several cytokines induce shedding from surface macrophages cells. Soluble stimulates expression release cells, positive feedback loop this cytokine. By demonstrating augmented within human atheroma as well vascular sCD44, process cytokines, study provides new insights on functions