Matrix metalloproteinase inhibition reduces adventitial thickening and collagen accumulation following balloon dilation.

Objective: Constrictive arterial remodeling following balloon angioplasty has been related to adventitial collagen accumulation and subsequent thickening and can be prevented by matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition. Following balloon dilation, we examined the effect of MMP inhibition on collagen turnover and the relationship between adventitial area and degree of constrictive remodeling.

Methods: In 12 non-atherosclerotic landrace pigs, balloon dilation was performed in 39 peripheral arteries with and without MMP inhibition.

Identification of atherosclerotic plaque components with intravascular ultrasound elastography in vivo: a Yucatan pig study.

Background: Intravascular ultrasound elastography assesses the local strain of the atherosclerotic vessel wall. In the present study, the potential to identify different plaque components in vivo was investigated.

Methods And Results: Atherosclerotic external iliac and femoral arteries (n=24) of 6 Yucatan pigs were investigated.

Minimal duration of oral matrix metalloproteinase inhibition to prevent constrictive arterial remodeling after balloon dilation in the pig.

Purpose: To determine the minimal duration of oral matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition to prevent constrictive remodeling after balloon dilation.

Materials And Methods: In 37 nonatherosclerotic pigs, balloon dilation was performed in 145 peripheral arteries. Pigs were treated with an MMP inhibitor for 2, 7, 14, 28, or 42 days, or they served as controls and were killed 42 days after intervention.