β-radiation reduces the reactivity of extracellular matrix proteins in intravascular brachytherapy (IVBT), resulting in decreased platelet adhesion.

Background: Intravascular Brachytherapy as a tool to reduce restenosis is thought to alter vascular wall biology and vessel wall protein function. Platelet accumulation is also indeed important in the genesis of restenosis. We examine the in vitro effects of beta-radiation on the certain vessel wall extra cellular matrix proteins. We hypothesized that vessel wall (proteins) had become less prone to thrombosis.

Methods: We examined platelet adhesion to 20-Gy beta radiation treated extra cellular matrix proteins under flow conditions. Platelet flow adhesion was evaluated or quantified by image analysis, aggregation size analysis using the Watershed program and real-time fluorescence images of thrombus formation. The effect of beta radiation on vWF was further showing by measuring the binding of domain-specific antibodies to radiation treated vWF.

Results: 20-Gy beta radiation significantly decreased platelet adhesion to extra cellular matrix protein; vWF and collagen Type III and had no effect on the adhesion upon fibrinogen and fibronectin. The beta-radiation affected mostly the AI, A2 and A3 domains of the vWF molecule on the surface, whereas the D'-D3 and B-C1 domains on the surface remain unaffected and suggesting a significant decrease in vWF binding capacity to the GPIb, heparin and collagen ligands.

Conclusion: Beta radiation treatment can alter the reactivity of the certain vessel wall extra cellular matrix proteins, in particular vWF and collagen. The vessel wall may become less prone to platelet adhesion, which results in decrease thrombus formation. It might help to reduce the onset of acute coronary occlusion after the intervention.