Formononetin protects against balloon injury‑induced neointima formation in rats by regulating proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells via the TGF‑β1/Smad3 signaling pathway.

The present study investigated the effects of formononetin (FMN) against balloon injury‑induced neointima formation in vivo and platelet‑derived growth factor (PDGF)‑BB‑induced proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in vitro, and explored the underlying mechanisms. A rat model of carotid artery injury was established, in order to examine the effects of FMN on balloon injury‑induced neointima formation. Histological observation of the carotid artery tissues was conducted by hematoxylin and eosin staining.