Low elastin content of carotid plaques is associated with increased risk of ipsilateral stroke

Abstract

Objectives: Atherosclerotic plaques with a low content of connective tissue proteins are believed to have an increased risk of rupture and to give rise to clinical events. The aim of the present study was to investigate if the content of elastin, collagen and of the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, -3, -9 and -12 in plaques removed at surgery can be associated with the occurrence of ipsilateral symptoms. Methods: The atherosclerotic plaques of 221 patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy were analyzed and their composition was related to the incidence of preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative neurological events. Results: Elastin, collagen and MMP-12 contents were lower in males and diabetic patients. Elastin (P.010), MMP-3 (P.008) and MMP-9 (P