Expression and function of PPARgamma in rat and human vascular smooth muscle cells.

Circulation · 2000

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

BACKGROUND: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is activated by fatty acids, eicosanoids, and insulin-sensitizing thiazolidinediones (TZDs). The TZD troglitazone (TRO) inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and migration in vitro and in postinjury intimal hyperplasia. METHODS AND RESULTS: Rat and human VSMCs express mRNA and nuclear receptors for PPARgamma1. Three PPARgamma ligands, the TZDs TRO and rosiglitazone and the prostanoid 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14)-prostaglandin J2 (15d-PGJ2), all inhibited VSMC proliferation and migration. PPARgamma is upregulated in rat neointima at 7 days and 14 days after balloon injury and is also present in early human atheroma and precursor lesions. CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacological activation of PPARgamma expressed in VSMCs inhibits their proliferation and migration, potentially limiting restenosis and atherosclerosis. These receptors are upregulated during vascular injury.