Intraperitoneal infusion of homocysteine increases intimal hyperplasia in balloon-injured rat carotid arteries.

Hyperhomocysteinemia is a significant risk factor in atherosclerosis and thrombosis. However, its role in the development of intimal hyperplasia after arterial reconstructive procedures remains uncertain. We therefore studied the effect of homocysteine on intimal hyperplasia in a rat model of carotid artery balloon injury.