The Expression Of MiR-126 In Carotid Atherosclerotic Plaques Of ApoE^-/- Mice

Objective: To investigate the expression of micro RNA-126(mi R-126) and the vascul ar cell-adhesion molecule-1(VCAM-1) in carotid plaque, and to discuss the relations hip between mi R-126 and atherosclerotic lessions formation in apolipoprotein E-knock out(Apo E-/-) mice.Methods: Twenty-four male Apo E-/- mice were randomized into two groups: control g roup(sham-operate + normal diet) and model group(perivascular collar placement +high-cholesterol diet). After eight weeks of operate, all mice were sacrificed. The se rum levels of totals of total cholesterol(TC), triglyceride(TG), high-density lipoprote in-cholesterol(HDL-C) and low-density lipopoprotein(LDL-C) were measured by enz yme method. Pathological picture analysis was performed to calculate the ratio of are a of carotid atherosclerotic plaque to area of vessel lumen. The expression of VCAM-1and mi R-126 were measured by RT-PCR, and the expression of VCAM-1 also mea sured by Western blot.Results: As compared with control group, the model group associated with a marked increase in TC, TG, LDL-C(P<0.05), and area of carotid atherosclerotic plaque(P<0.01), the expression of mi R-126 was significantly decreased in m RNA levels(P<0.01), and the expression of VCAM-1 was significantly increased in m RNA and protein levels(P<0.01).Conclusion: The down-regulation of mi R-126 in carotid atherosclerotic plaque may p lay an important role in the development of atherosclerosis.