Vascular endothelial growth factor and its gene expression in atherosclerotic stenotic carotid arteries of rabbit pre-and post-endarterectomy

Objective: Study the characteristics of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its gene expression in carotid atherosclerotic stenotic (CASS) rabbit carotid artery pre-and post-carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Methods: CASS rabbit model were developed by the method of air-drying carotid artery and feeding the animal with a diet rich in fat.CEAs were carried out in CASS rabbits.Immunohistochemical analysis and in situ hybridization were used to study the characteristics of VEGF and its gene expression in CASS rabbit carotid arteries pre-and post-CEA. Results: ①VEGF staining was strong in atherosclerotic arteries,and high expression of VEGF at the mRNA level was also documented.②Within 3 days post-CEA,no increased VEGF expression was detected.③At the 7th day post-CEA,VEGF staining was strong in the area of neointimal hyperplasia, and VEGF mRNA expression was upgraduated in this area.④Three weeks after CEA,the VEGF and its mRNA expression were not distinct in the media of the area of reendothelialization. Conclusion: One week after CEA,VEGF acting at endothelial cells derived from not only smooth muscle cells by the form of side-secretion,but also neoendothelial cells themselves,and VEGF synthetised by neoendothelial cells may be the principal source of endogenetic VEGF in the definite period post-CEA. Three weeks after CEA,the reendothelialization was completed in the media of this area.