1. |
- Fogelstrand, Linda, 1974, et al.
(author)
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Monocytic expression of CD14 and CD18, circulating adhesion molecules and inflammatory markers in women with diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance
- 2004
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In: Diabetologia. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 0012-186X .- 1432-0428. ; 47:11, s. 1948-52
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Type 2 diabetes is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Monocyte recruitment and inflammatory activation are crucial steps in the development of atherosclerosis and several receptors are involved in these processes. The aim of this study was to investigate levels of CD14 and the beta(2)-integrin subunits CD11b and CD18 on monocytes from women with diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance. METHODS: A population-based sample of 112 Swedish women, who were aged 64 years and had diabetes mellitus or impaired or normal glucose tolerance, was investigated. Cell surface receptors were analysed with flow cytometry and serum inflammation markers and soluble adhesion molecules with enzyme-linked methods. RESULTS: The monocytic CD14 expression and serum levels of C-reactive protein, IL-6 and soluble adhesion molecules were higher in the diabetes group than in the group with normal glucose tolerance. Monocytic CD18 was elevated both in the diabetes and in the impaired glucose tolerance groups. The levels of monocytic surface markers correlated with BMI and to a lesser extent with glycaemic control. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: The increased monocytic expression of important surface receptors together with elevated serum inflammation markers supports the concept of increased inflammation in type 2 diabetes and may be an important factor for the risk of atherosclerosis.
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2. |
- Hägg, Daniel, 1974, et al.
(author)
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Augmented levels of CD44 in macrophages from atherosclerotic subjects: a possible IL-6-CD44 feedback loop?
- 2007
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In: Atherosclerosis. - : Elsevier BV. - 0021-9150 .- 1879-1484. ; 190:2, s. 291-7
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- The cell-adhesion molecule CD44 likely participates in atherosclerosis development. We have shown previously that pro-inflammatory cytokines affect CD44 expression. Therefore, this work examined the role of elevated CD44 levels in human macrophages. Macrophages from human atherosclerotic subjects (n=15) showed elevated levels of CD44 transcript and protein (1.5-fold) compared to matched controls (n=15) (P=0.050 and 0.044, respectively). To test whether genetic factors influence CD44 expression, two single nucleotide polymorphisms in the CD44 gene were analyzed but these were not associated with coronary artery disease. We also examined the potential connection between plasma cytokine levels and CD44 expression. In atherosclerotic subjects, elevated CD44 expression correlates (P=0.012) with enhanced macrophage IL-6 secretion (3.13+/-2.5 pg/mL versus 0.32+/-0.16 pg/mL in controls, P=0.021). Additionally, CD44-deficient mice exhibit less circulating IL-6 than wild-type controls (9.8+/-0.7 pg/mL versus 14.3+/-0.7 pg/mL; P=0.032). Furthermore, IL-6 augments CD44 expression in primary human macrophages after 24 h (P=0.038) and 48 h (P=0.015). Taken together, our data show an IL-6-CD44 feedback loop in macrophages. Such a positive feedback loop may aggravate atherosclerosis development.
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3. |
- Hägg, Daniel, 1974, et al.
(author)
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Expression profiling of macrophages from subjects with atherosclerosis to identify novel susceptibility genes.
- 2008
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In: International journal of molecular medicine. - 1107-3756. ; 21:6, s. 697-704
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Although a number of environmental risk factors for atherosclerosis have been identified, heredity seems to be a significant independent risk factor. The aim of our study was to identify novel susceptibility genes for atherosclerosis. The screening process consisted of three steps. First, expression profiles of macrophages from subjects with atherosclerosis were compared to macrophages from control subjects. Secondly, the subjects were genotyped for promoter region polymorphisms in genes with altered gene expression. Thirdly, a population of subjects with coronary heart disease and control subjects were genotyped to test for an association with identified polymorphisms that affected gene expression. Twenty-seven genes were differentially expressed in both macrophages and foam cells from subjects with atherosclerosis. Three of these genes, IRS2, CD86 and SLC11A1 were selected for further analysis. Foam cells from subjects homozygous for the C allele at the -765C-->T SNP located in the promoter region of IRS2 had increased gene expression compared to foam cells from subjects with the nonCC genotype. Also, macrophages and foam cells from subjects homozygous for allele 2 at a repeat element in the promoter region of SLC11A1 had increased gene expression compared to macrophages and foam cells from subjects with the non22 genotype. Genotyping of 512 pairs of subjects with coronary heart disease (CHD) and matched controls revealed that subjects homozygous for C of the IRS2 SNP had an increased risk for CHD; odds ratio 1.43, p=0.010. Immunohistochemical staining of human carotid plaques showed that IRS2 expression was localised to macrophages and endothelial cells in vivo. Our method provides a reliable approach for identifying susceptibility genes for atherosclerosis, and we conclude that elevated IRS2 gene expression in macrophages may be associated with an increased risk of CHD.
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4. |
- Mattsson Hultén, Lillemor, 1951, et al.
(author)
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15-Lipoxygenase-2 is expressed in macrophages in human carotid plaques and regulated by hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha
- 2010
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In: European Journal of Clinical Investigation. - : Wiley. - 1365-2362 .- 0014-2972. ; 40:1, s. 11-17
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background Macrophages are prominent in hypoxic areas of atherosclerotic lesions and their secreted cytokines, growth factors and activity of enzymes are involved in atherogenesis. Previously, we showed that 15-lipoxygenase (LOX)-2 is expressed in human monocyte-derived macrophages and that hypoxia increases 15-LOX-2 expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory molecules. Here we investigated whether human carotid plaque macrophages express 15-LOX-2 and whether its expression in macrophages is regulated by hypoxia through hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). Materials and methods Carotid plaques from 47 patients with high-grade symptomatic carotid artery stenosis were analysed using immunohistochemistry, and stained areas were quantified by digital image analysis. Carotid plaque macrophages were isolated with anti-CD14 immunobeads using an immunomagnetic bead technique. Primary macrophages were transfected with HIF-1α siRNA or control siRNA before extraction of RNA and medium analysis. Results In paired tissue sections, the extent of staining for CD68 correlated with staining for 15-LOX-2 but not for 15-LOX-1. In carotid plaque macrophages isolated with anti-CD14 immunobeads, 15-LOX-2 mRNA was expressed at high levels. In primary macrophages, 15-LOX-2 expression was significantly increased by incubation with the HIF-1α stabilizer dimethyloxalylglycine. Knockdown of HIF-1α significantly decreased production of the 15-LOX-2 enzyme products 12- and 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid. In carotid plaques, HIF-1α staining correlated with staining for 15-LOX-2. Conclusions These results demonstrate that 15-LOX-2 is highly expressed in human plaques and is correlated with the presence of macrophages and HIF-1α. 15-LOX-2 enzyme activity can be modulated by HIF-1α. Thus, increased expression of 15-LOX-2 in macrophages in hypoxic atherosclerotic plaque may enhance inflammation and the recruitment of inflammatory cells.
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5. |
- Olson, Fredrik J., 1975, et al.
(author)
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Circulating matrix metalloproteinase 9 levels in relation to sampling methods, femoral and carotid atherosclerosis.
- 2008
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In: Journal of internal medicine. - : Wiley. - 1365-2796 .- 0954-6820. ; 263:6, s. 626-35
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVES: To examine whether circulating levels of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) were associated with ultrasound-assessed intima-media thickness (IMT) and echolucent plaques in the carotid and femoral arteries. To examine preanalytical sources of variability in MMP-9 concentrations related to sampling procedures. SUBJECTS AND DESIGN: Plasma and serum MMP-9 levels were compared with ultrasound assessed measures of femoral and carotid atherosclerosis, in a cross-sectional study of 61-year-old men (n = 473). Preanalytical sources of variability in MMP-9 levels were examined in 10 healthy subjects. Main outcome measures were circulating levels of MMP-9 in serum and plasma, IMT of the carotid and femoral arteries, and plaque status based on size and echolucency. SETTING: Research unit at university hospital. RESULTS: Plasma concentrations of total and active MMP-9 were associated with femoral artery IMT independently of traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and were higher in subjects with moderate to large femoral plaques. Plasma MMP-9 concentration was higher in men with echolucent femoral plaques (P = 0.006) compared with subjects without femoral plaques. No similar associations were found for carotid plaques. MMP-9 concentrations were higher in serum than in plasma, and higher when sampling was performed with Vacutainer than with syringe. MMP-9 levels in serum were more strongly associated with peripheral neutrophil count compared with MMP-9 levels in plasma. CONCLUSIONS: Plasma MMP-9 levels were associated with atherosclerosis in the femoral artery, and total MMP-9 concentration was higher in men with echolucent femoral plaques. The choice of sample material and sampling method affect the measurements of circulating MMP-9 levels.
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6. |
- Olson, Fredrik J., 1975, et al.
(author)
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Up- and downstream structural differences in carotid plaque composition - implications for studies of human symptomatic carotid plaques
- 2008
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In: Atherosclerosis Supplements. - 1567-5688. ; 9:1
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Conference paper (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background and aims: Blood passing a protruding plaque causes high laminar shear stress at the upstream shoulder with increased risk of rupture, whereas blood flow is turbulent causing low shear stress at the downstream shoulder, where plaque growth generally occurs. Low shear stress induces cell adhesion, inflammation and apoptosis. Cap shoulders are of key interest in the mechanisms leading to development of rupture-prone plaques. Our aim was to explore morphology and composition of human carotid endarterectomies in up- and downstream parts, and to relate the occurrence of macrophages in shoulder regions to that in the entire plaque. Methods: Endarterectomies from 87 patients with symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis were divided transversely into 3mm pieces (4-18 paraffin-embedded pieces/plaque). Sections were prepared and histologically classified for plaque vulnerability features: AHA classification, thin cap, plaque rupture, and surface thrombosis; and were also immunohistochemically stained for macrophages and other components. Clinical information was collected, to correlate results with clinical history and risk factors. Results: On average, the most stenotic part of the plaque was 3mm into the internal carotid artery, from the bifurcation. Plaque vulnerability features were most prevalent at this level, and were less frequent in distal sections upstream. Macrophage content was higher downstream of the stenosis than in upstream parts. The shoulder regions contained less than 10% of all macrophages. Conclusions: Upstream and downstream parts of human symptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaques differed significantly in morphology and composition. Only a small fraction of macrophages in the plaques were located in the cap shoulder regions.
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7. |
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8. |
- Pettersson, Camilla, 1978, et al.
(author)
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LDL-associated apolipoprotein J and lysozyme are associated with atherogenic properties of LDL found in type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome.
- 2011
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In: Journal of internal medicine. - : Wiley. - 1365-2796 .- 0954-6820. ; 269:3, s. 306-321
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objectives Exchangeable low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-associated proteins can affect the atherogenic properties of LDL. Our aim was to analyze the protein composition of LDL from individuals with or without type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome (T2DM) in relation to other LDL-particle characteristics, to assess whether certain proteins associate more with certain subclasses of LDL typical for T2DM, such as small, apoCIII-rich LDL. Design LDL from two cohorts of 61-year-old men (n = 19 and 64) with or without T2DM was isolated using size-exclusion chromatography or deuterium oxide-based ultracentrifugation. LDL-associated proteins were identified using mass spectrometry and quantified using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Differently expressed LDL-associated proteins apolipoprotein (apo)J and lysozyme were also measured in serum from a third cohort of women (n = 71) with or without T2DM. Lysozyme binding to advanced glycation end product (AGE)-LDL was examined in vitro. Results ApoJ and lysozyme were increased in LDL particles with increased apoCIII content and decreased cholesterol content. When isolated with SEC, LDL from individuals with T2DM contained more apoJ and lysozyme and less apoA1 than LDL from control individuals. LDL content of apoJ correlated with a smaller LDL-particle size. Serum levels of lysozyme, but not apoJ, were increased in individuals with T2DM. In vitro, lysozyme associated more with AGE-LDL than with unmodified LDL. Conclusions Our results indicate that apoJ and lysozyme are increased in LDL with characteristics of small dense LDL in T2DM. Small dense LDL is easily glycated, and the increased affinity of lysozyme for AGE-LDL provides a possible partial explanation for an increase of lysozyme from those with type 2 diabetes.
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9. |
- Smith, Ulf, 1943, et al.
(author)
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Pathogenesis and treatment of diabetic vascular disease - illustrated by two cases
- 2006
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In: J Intern Med. - : Wiley. - 0954-6820. ; 260:5, s. 409-20
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This publication is a summary of the presentations given at the First JIM Grand Round held at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital on 15 March 2006. The Grand Round was based on two case reports; a patient with type 2 diabetes and pronounced macrovascular disease and another patient with early microvascular disease combined with the macrovascular complications. The pathogenesis of the vascular complications and the current treatment regimens were discussed in relation to the history and examinations performed in these patients.
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10. |
- Svensson, Johan, 1964, et al.
(author)
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Treatment of obese subjects with the oral growth hormone secretagogue MK-677 affects serum concentrations of several lipoproteins, but not lipoprotein(a).
- 1999
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In: The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism. - : The Endocrine Society. - 0021-972X .- 1945-7197. ; 84:6, s. 2028-33
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Obesity is associated with blunted GH secretion and an unfavorable lipoprotein pattern. The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of treatment with the oral GH secretagogue MK-677 on lipoproteins in otherwise healthy obese males. The study was randomized, double blind, and parallel. Twenty-four obese males, aged 18-50 yr, with body mass index greater than 30 kg/m2 and waist/hip ratio above 0.95 were treated with 25 mg MK-677 (n = 12) or placebo (n = 12) daily for 8 weeks. MK-677 treatment did not significantly change serum lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] levels. Serum apolipoprotein A-I and E (apoA-I and apoE) were increased at 2 weeks (P < 0.001 and P < 0.01 vs. placebo, respectively), but were not changed at study end. Serum total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were not significantly changed by MK-677 treatment. Serum high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (HDL-C) was increased at 2 weeks of MK-677 treatment (P < 0.01 vs. placebo), but not at 8 weeks. The LDL-C/HDL-C ratio was reduced after 8 weeks of MK-677 treatment (P < 0.05 vs. placebo). Mean LDL particle diameter was decreased at 2 weeks (P < 0.05 vs. placebo), but was unchanged compared with baseline values at 8 weeks (P = NS vs. placebo). The level of serum triglycerides was increased at 2 (P < 0.05 vs. placebo), but not at 8, weeks. Lipoprotein lipase activity in abdominal and gluteal sc adipose tissue was not affected by active treatment. In conclusion, treatment with the oral GH secretagogue MK-677 affected circulating lipoproteins. The effects on serum apoA-1, apoE, triglycerides, and mean LDL particle diameter were transient. At study end, the LDL-C/HDL-C ratio was decreased. MK-677 treatment did not significantly affect serum Lp(a) concentrations at the present dose and administration protocol.
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11. |
- Svensson, Per Anders, 1959, et al.
(author)
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Identification of genes predominantly expressed in human macrophages
- 2004
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In: Atherosclerosis. - : Elsevier BV. ; 177, s. 287-290
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Identification of cell and tissue specific genes may provide novel insights to signaling systems and functions. Macrophages play a key role in many diseases including atherosclerosis. Using DNA microarrays we compared the expression of approximately 10,000 genes in 56 human tissues and identified 23 genes with predominant expression in macrophages. The identified genes include both genes known to be macrophage specific and genes previously not well described in this cell type. Tissue distribution of two genes, liver X receptor (LXR) alpha and interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL1RN), was verified by real-time RT-PCR. We conclude that comparison of expression profiles from a large number of tissues can be used to identify genes that are predominantly expressed in certain tissues. Identification of novel macrophage specific genes may increase our understanding of the role of this cell in different diseases.
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12. |
- Svensson, Per-Arne, 1969, et al.
(author)
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Regulation and splicing of scavenger receptor class B type I in human macrophages and atherosclerotic plaques
- 2005
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In: BMC Cardiovasc Disord. - : Springer Science and Business Media LLC. - 1471-2261. ; 5
-
Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: The protective role of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) in the cardiovascular system is related to its role in the reverse transport of cholesterol from the arterial wall to the liver for subsequent excretion via the bile. Scavenger receptor class B type I (SR-BI) binds HDL and mediates selective uptake of cholesterol ester and cellular efflux of cholesterol to HDL. The role of SR-BI in atherosclerosis has been well established in murine models but it remains unclear whether SR-BI plays an equally important role in atherosclerosis in humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of SR-BI and its isoforms in human macrophages and atherosclerotic plaques. METHODS: The effect of hypoxia and minimally modified low-density lipoprotein (mmLDL), two proatherogenic stimuli, on SR-BI expression was studied in human monocyte-derived macrophages from healthy subjects using real-time PCR. In addition, SR-BI expression was determined in macrophages obtained from subjects with atherosclerosis (n = 15) and healthy controls (n = 15). Expression of SR-BI isoforms was characterized in human atherosclerotic plaques and macrophages using RT-PCR and DNA sequencing. RESULTS: SR-BI expression was decreased in macrophages after hypoxia (p < 0.005). In contrast, SR-BI expression was increased by exposure to mmLDL (p < 0.05). There was no difference in SR-BI expression in macrophages from patients with atherosclerosis compared to controls. In both groups, SR-BI expression was increased by exposure to mmLDL (p < 0.05). Transcripts corresponding to SR-BI and SR-BII were detected in macrophages. In addition, a third isoform, referred to as SR-BIII, was discovered. All three isoforms were also expressed in human atherosclerotic plaque. Compared to the other isoforms, the novel SR-BIII isoform was predicted to have a unique intracellular C-terminal domain containing 53 amino acids. CONCLUSION: We conclude that SR-BI is regulated by proatherogenic stimuli in humans. However, we found no differences between subjects with atherosclerosis and healthy controls. This indicates that altered SR-BI expression is not a common cause of atherosclerosis. In addition, we identified SR-BIII as a novel isoform expressed in human macrophages and in human atherosclerotic plaques.
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13. |
- Svensson, Per-Arne, 1969, et al.
(author)
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Urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor is associated with macrophages and plaque rupture in symptomatic carotid atherosclerosis.
- 2008
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In: International journal of molecular medicine. - : Spandidos Publications. - 1107-3756. ; 22:4, s. 459-64
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- There is a strong correlation between macrophage infiltration and plaque instability in recently symptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaques, and it is hypothesised that mechanisms related to macrophages may be involved in plaque vulnerability and rupture. We previously found high expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (UPAR) in human macrophages. The aim of this study was to investigate whether UPAR co-localises with macrophages in symptomatic carotid plaques, and whether UPAR expression is associated with plaque rupture. Real-time RT-PCR assays showed that UPAR expression levels were high in monocyte-derived macrophages and in carotid endarterectomies compared with a tissue panel. Serial transverse sections were prepared from carotid endarterectomies from 12 symptomatic patients, and analyzed with immunohistochemical staining for UPAR and for CD68-positive macrophages, and with histopathological assessment. UPAR co-localised with CD68-positive macrophages, with a high correlation (r=0.90, p<0.001) between immunostained areas in 12 carotid endarterectomies from symptomatic patients. High degrees of UPAR and CD68 staining were found in sections around the bifurcation level where rupture was most common, while low degrees of staining were found in sections of the common carotid artery end of the endarterectomy (p<0.05). Higher degrees of UPAR staining were observed in ruptured plaque sections compared with non-ruptured sections. In conclusion, UPAR was highly expressed in monocyte-derived macrophages and in symptomatic carotid plaques, UPAR co-localised with macrophages in carotid symptomatic plaques and UPAR was predominantly found in ruptured plaque segments. These findings support the hypothesis that UPAR is related to plaque rupture in symptomatic atherosclerotic lesions.
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14. |
- Wernstedt, Ingrid, 1978, et al.
(author)
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A common polymorphism in the interleukin-6 gene promoter is associated with overweight
- 2004
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In: Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. ; 28:10, s. 1272-9
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: Human body fat mass is to a large extent genetically determined, but little is known about the susceptibility genes for common obesity. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) suppresses body fat mass in rodents, and IL-6 treatment increases energy expenditure in both rodents and humans. The -174 G/C single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the IL-6 gene promoter is common in many populations, and -174 C-containing promoters have been found to be weaker enhancers of transcription. Moreover, a SNP at position -572 in the IL-6 promoter has recently been reported to affect transcription. The objective was to investigate the association between the IL-6 gene promoter SNPs and obesity. DESIGN: Trans-sectional association study of IL-6 gene promoter SNPs and indices of obesity. SUBJECTS: Two study populations, the larger one consisting of hypertensive individuals (mean age 57 y, 73% males, n=485) and the other consisting of 20 y younger nonobese healthy females (n=74). MEASUREMENTS: Genotyping for the -174 IL-6 G/C and the -572 G/C SNPs, body mass index (BMI), serum leptin levels, serum IL-6 levels, C-reactive protein, fasting blood glucose and various blood lipids. RESULTS: The common -174 C allele (f(C)=0.46), but not any -572 allele, was associated with higher BMI and higher serum leptin levels in both study populations. In the larger population, there were significant odds ratios for the association of CC (2.13) and GC (1.76) genotypes with overweight (BMI>25 kg/m(2)). Moreover, as the C allele was common, it accounted for a significant population-attributable risk of overweight (12%; CI 2-21%), although its average effect was modest in this sample. CONCLUSION: Genetically determined individual differences in production of IL-6 may be relevant for the regulation of body fat mass.
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15. |
- Astengo, Marco, et al.
(author)
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Physical training after percutaneous coronary intervention in patients with stable angina: effects on working capacity, metabolism, and markers of inflammation
- 2010
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In: European Journal of Cardiovascular Prevention & Rehabilitation. - 1741-8267. ; 17:3, s. 349-354
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Objective Physical activity is effective in primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that exercise training improves glucose and lipid metabolism, the inflammatory/anti-inflammatory balance, and the outcome of elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in patients with stable coronary disease. Methods Sixty-two patients scheduled to undergo PCI for stable angina were randomized to intensive physical activity (n = 33) consisting of home-based exercise on a bicycle ergometer or maintain their usual sedentary life (n = 29). The training program started 2 months before PCI and terminated 6 months afterwards. Clinical examination, blood sampling (fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, lipid profile, apolipoprotein B, apolipoprotein A1, C-reactive protein, serum amyloid A, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, and interleukin-10), and maximal exercise tests were performed at inclusion, 1 week before PCI, and 3 and 6 months afterwards. Results Fifty-six patients [28 per group, 45 men, mean age 63 (SD 7.8) years] completed the follow-up. According to self-reports, patients in the training group exercised more often and longer [4.9 (SD 1.1) vs. 0.6 (SD 1.3) days/week, 36 (SD 12) vs. 15 (SD 31) min/session, P <0.0001]. Improvement in maximal exercise capacity was significantly better in the training group [27 (SD 27) vs. 9 (SD 27)W, P = 0.02]. Exercise had no significant effects on glucose and lipid metabolism, plasma cytokines, or acute-phase reactants. Conclusion A home-based training program significantly improved maximal exercise capacity but did not affect glucose or lipid metabolism or markers of inflammation. Eur J Cardiovasc Prev Rehabil 17:349-354 © 2010 The European Society of Cardiology
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16. |
- Borén, Jan, 1963, et al.
(author)
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Low-density lipoproteins cause atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. 1. Evidence from genetic, epidemiologic, and clinical studies. A consensus statement from the European Atherosclerosis Society Consensus Panel.
- 2017
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In: European heart journal. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1522-9645 .- 0195-668X. ; 38:32, s. 2459-2472
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- To appraise the clinical and genetic evidence that low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) cause atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).We assessed whether the association between LDL and ASCVD fulfils the criteria for causality by evaluating the totality of evidence from genetic studies, prospective epidemiologic cohort studies, Mendelian randomization studies, and randomized trials of LDL-lowering therapies. In clinical studies, plasma LDL burden is usually estimated by determination of plasma LDL cholesterol level (LDL-C). Rare genetic mutations that cause reduced LDL receptor function lead to markedly higher LDL-C and a dose-dependent increase in the risk of ASCVD, whereas rare variants leading to lower LDL-C are associated with a correspondingly lower risk of ASCVD. Separate meta-analyses of over 200 prospective cohort studies, Mendelian randomization studies, and randomized trials including more than 2 million participants with over 20 million person-years of follow-up and over 150000 cardiovascular events demonstrate a remarkably consistent dose-dependent log-linear association between the absolute magnitude of exposure of the vasculature to LDL-C and the risk of ASCVD; and this effect appears to increase with increasing duration of exposure to LDL-C. Both the naturally randomized genetic studies and the randomized intervention trials consistently demonstrate that any mechanism of lowering plasma LDL particle concentration should reduce the risk of ASCVD events proportional to the absolute reduction in LDL-C and the cumulative duration of exposure to lower LDL-C, provided that the achieved reduction in LDL-C is concordant with the reduction in LDL particle number and that there are no competing deleterious off-target effects.Consistent evidence from numerous and multiple different types of clinical and genetic studies unequivocally establishes that LDL causes ASCVD.
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17. |
- Borén, Jan, 1963, et al.
(author)
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New prospects for PCSK9 inhibition?
- 2018
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In: European heart journal. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 1522-9645 .- 0195-668X. ; 39:27, s. 2600-2601
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Journal article (other academic/artistic)
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18. |
- Boström, Pontus, 1982, et al.
(author)
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Hypoxia converts human macrophages into triglyceride-loaded foam cells.
- 2006
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In: Arteriosclerosis, thrombosis, and vascular biology. - 1524-4636. ; 26:8, s. 1871-6
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- OBJECTIVE: Atherosclerotic lesions have regions that are hypoxic. Because the lesion contains macrophages that are loaded with lipid, we investigated whether hypoxia can influence the accumulation of lipids in these cells. METHODS AND RESULTS: Exposure of human macrophages to hypoxia for 24 hours resulted in an increased formation of cytosolic lipid droplets and an increased accumulation of triglycerides. Exposure of the macrophages to oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) increased the accumulation of cytosolic lipid droplets because of an increase in cellular cholesterol esters. The accumulation of lipid droplets in oxLDL-treated cells was further increased after hypoxia, caused by an increased level of triglycerides. Expression analyses combined with immunoblot or RT-PCR demonstrated that hypoxia increased the expression of several genes that could promote the accumulation of lipid droplets. Hypoxia increased the mRNA and protein levels of adipocyte differentiation-related protein (ADRP). It is well known that an increased expression of ADRP increases the formation of lipid droplets. Hypoxia decreased the expression of enzymes involved in beta-oxidation (acyl-coenzyme A synthetase and acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase) and increased the expression of stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase, an important enzyme in the fatty acid biosynthesis. Moreover, exposure to hypoxia decreased the rate of beta-oxidation, whereas the accumulation of triglycerides increased. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate that exposure of human macrophages to hypoxia causes an accumulation of triglyceride-containing cytosolic lipid droplets. This indicates that the hypoxia present in atherosclerotic lesions can contribute to the formation of the lipid-loaded macrophages that characterize the lesion and to the accumulation of triglycerides in such lesions.
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19. |
- Catapano, A. L., et al.
(author)
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Think Again About Cholesterol Survey
- 2015
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In: Atherosclerosis Supplements. - : Elsevier BV. - 1567-5688. ; 20, s. 1-5
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still the main cause of death in Europe. Elevated plasma cholesterol, specifically low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), is the main causative risk factor for CVD, most prominently associated with coronary heart disease. A widespread disinformation about cholesterol and CVD is one factor underlying a poor compliance to lipid-lowering therapy. To investigate how cholesterol, CVD and cholesterol reduction is perceived in the population, a survey was commissioned by the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS). Nearly half of people above 25 years of age are most worried about cancer (45%), compared to just over one in four who are worried about heart disease (27%). A majority believe being overweight (72%), blood pressure (70%) and smoking (67%) most affect heart health, far more than note cholesterol (59%) and family history (39%). The majority of adults recognize that high LDL (or "bad") cholesterol should be a health priority for everyone, including those younger than 40 and those who are not overweight. However, 1 in 4 (25%) incorrectly believe that it does not need to be a concern until someone shows signs or symptoms. Although 89% of adults surveyed agreed it is important for people to know whether or not they have high LDL-C, an overwhelming 92% did not know their LDL-C levels or had never had their cholesterol levels tested. A high 63% had never heard of familial hypercholesterolemia: France had the lowest level of awareness (41%) to Denmark with a high 80%, and the association of the disease with high levels of LDL-C is quite poor (only 36%), with Sweden only at 22% versus a high in Spain of 54%. A large part of the people participating in the survey were quite uncertain about the modality of transmission for familial hypercholesterolemia in the family. All in all, this survey highlights the need for more information among citizens for the role of cholesterol in determining CVD.
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20. |
- Cuchel, M., et al.
(author)
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Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia: new insights and guidance for clinicians to improve detection and clinical management. A position paper from the Consensus Panel on Familial Hypercholesterolaemia of the European Atherosclerosis Society
- 2014
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In: European Heart Journal. - : Oxford University Press (OUP). - 0195-668X .- 1522-9645. ; 35:32
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Aims Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HoFH) is a rare life-threatening condition characterized by markedly elevated circulating levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and accelerated, premature atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD). Given recent insights into the heterogeneity of genetic defects and clinical phenotype of HoFH, and the availability of new therapeutic options, this Consensus Panel on Familial Hypercholesterolaemia of the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) critically reviewed available data with the aim of providing clinical guidance for the recognition and management of HoFH. Methods and results Early diagnosis of HoFH and prompt initiation of diet and lipid-lowering therapy are critical. Genetic testing may provide a definitive diagnosis, but if unavailable, markedly elevated LDL-C levels together with cutaneous or tendon xanthomas before 10 years, or untreated elevated LDL-C levels consistent with heterozygous FH in both parents, are suggestive of HoFH. We recommend that patients with suspected HoFH are promptly referred to specialist centres for a comprehensive ACVD evaluation and clinical management. Lifestyle intervention and maximal statin therapy are the mainstays of treatment, ideally started in the first year of life or at an initial diagnosis, often with ezetimibe and other lipid-modifying therapy. As patients rarely achieve LDL-C targets, adjunctive lipoprotein apheresis is recommended where available, preferably started by age 5 and no later than 8 years. The number of therapeutic approaches has increased following approval of lomitapide and mipomersen for HoFH. Given the severity of ACVD, we recommend regular follow-up, including Doppler echocardiographic evaluation of the heart and aorta annually, stress testing and, if available, computed tomography coronary angiography every 5 years, or less if deemed necessary. Conclusion This EAS Consensus Panel highlights the need for early identification of HoFH patients, prompt referral to specialized centres, and early initiation of appropriate treatment. These recommendations offer guidance for a wide spectrum of clinicians who are often the first to identify patients with suspected HoFH.
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21. |
- Danielsson Norén, Kristina, et al.
(author)
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15-Lipoxygenase-2 expression in human macrophages induces chemokine secretion and T cell migration.
- 2008
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In: Atherosclerosis. - : Elsevier BV. - 1879-1484 .- 0021-9150. ; 199:1, s. 34-40
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- BACKGROUND: We determined previously that hypoxia results in increased 15-lipoxygenase type 2 (15-LOX-2) expression and CXCL8 secretion in macrophages. This study sought to determine whether 15-LOX-2 expression links directly with the secretion of inflammatory molecules in macrophages and also investigated its subsequent effects on T cell migration. METHODS: Adenovirus-mediated gene delivery caused overexpression of 15-LOX-2 in human macrophages. We used cytometric bead array to measure chemokine secretion, and assessed T cell migration by counting cells in chemotaxis chambers. Expression of chemokine receptors was determined by FACS analysis. Using siRNA, we reduced 15-LOX-2 expression in human macrophages. We used scrambled siRNA as control. RESULTS: Macrophages that overexpress 15-LOX-2 showed increased secretion of chemokine CXCL10 after 24h incubation. In addition, preconditioned medium from 15-LOX-2-overexpressing cells increased T cell migration and surface expression of CXCR3, the CXCL10 receptor. Knockdown of 15-LOX-2 expression decreased CXCL10 secretion from hypoxic macrophages and also reduced T cell migration. CONCLUSION: In macrophages, overexpression of 15-LOX-2 results in increased secretion of CXCL10 and CCL2. Products released in response to increased 15-LOX-2 activation lead to increased expression of CD69, the T cell activation marker as well as increased T cell migration. Therefore, increased expression of 15-LOX-2 induced by hypoxia may participate in T cell recruitment in diseases such as atherosclerosis.
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22. |
- Dongiovanni, Paola, et al.
(author)
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Statin use and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in at risk individuals.
- 2015
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In: Journal of hepatology. - : Elsevier BV. - 1600-0641 .- 0168-8278. ; 63:3, s. 705-712
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Excess hepatic free cholesterol contributes to the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, and statins reduce cholesterol synthesis. Aim of this study was to assess whether statin use is associated with histological liver damage related to steatohepatitis.
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23. |
- Eriksson, Anna-Lena, 1971, et al.
(author)
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Association between the low activity genotype of catechol-O-methyltransferase and myocardial infarction in a hypertensive population
- 2004
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In: Eur Heart J. ; 25:5, s. 386-91
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- AIM: Estrogens regulate several biological processes involved in the pathogenesis of myocardial infarction. Catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) is a key enzyme in the degradation of estrogens. There is a functional polymorphism in the COMT gene (Val158Met), affecting the activity of the enzyme. We investigated if the low activity genotype of COMT is associated with an altered risk of myocardial infarction. METHODS AND RESULTS: In a prospectively followed hypertensive cohort we identified 174 patients who suffered a myocardial infarction during the study and compared them to 348 controls from the same cohort. The COMT polymorphism and serum levels of sex hormones were analysed. Patients homozygous for the low activity COMT genotype had a decreased risk of myocardial infarction compared to those with the high activity genotype, odds ratio 0.65 (95% CI 0.44-0.97, p=0.033 ). The protective effect of the low activity genotype was most evident among older patients (> 58 years of age), odds ratio 0.43 (95% CI 0.23-0.79, p=0.006 ). Serum levels of estradiol were increased ( p=0.006 ) in males with the low activity genotype. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that the low activity COMT genotype is protective against myocardial infarction. One may speculate that the altered estrogen status could be involved in this effect.
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24. |
- Faergeman,, et al.
(author)
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Efficacy and Tolerability of Rosuvastatin and Atorvastatin when Force-Titrated in Patients with Primary Hypercholesterolemia. Results from the ECLIPSE Study.
- 2008
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In: Cardiology. - : S. Karger AG. - 1421-9751 .- 0008-6312. ; 111:4, s. 219-228
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Background: Patients at high risk of cardiovascular disease frequently fail to reach recommended low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goals, partly because statin doses are not titrated to optimal effect. The ECLIPSE study was designed to compare the efficacy and safety of force-titrated treatment with rosuvastatin (10-40 mg) with that of atorvastatin (10-80 mg) in high-risk patients with hypercholesterolemia. Methods: In this 24-week, open-label, randomized, multinational, parallel-group study, 1,036 patients were randomized to rosuvastatin (n = 522) or atorvastatin (n = 514). Results: At all time points, a significantly greater percentage of patients on rosuvastatin treatment achieved the NCEP ATP III LDL-C goal of <100 mg/dl (2.5 mmol/l), the 2003 European LDL-C target of <2.5 or 3.0 mmol/l (100 or 115 mg/dl) and the LDL-C goal of <70 mg/dl (1.8 mmol/l), a goal suggested for very high-risk patients (p < 0.001 for all). Rosuvastatin also achieved significantly greater improvements in components of the atherogenic lipid profile versus atorvastatin. Both treatments were well tolerated. Conclusion: Rosuvastatin titrated across its recommended dose range provides a more favorable effect on lipoprotein variables than atorvastatin, enabling more high-risk patients to achieve recommended LDL-C goals.
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