Association of Plasma Soluble Flt-1 and Tie-2 Levels with Neovascularization in Atherosclerotic Carotid Plaques
Overview
This study investigates the correlation between circulating soluble Flt-1 and Tie-2 levels and intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) in carotid atherosclerotic plaques. Higher plasma sFlt-1 levels were found to be significantly associated with IPN.
Background
Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with unstable plaques contributing to ischemic events. Intraplaque neovascularization (IPN) is a critical factor in plaque destabilization, yet it remains underexplored. Understanding the molecular mechanisms and markers associated with IPN could enhance risk stratification and management of atherosclerotic disease.
Data Highlights
Parameter
Value
Patients with IPN
33/44 (75%)
Median Neovessel Count (SMI)
4 (range 0–16)
Correlation of sFlt-1 with SMI Neovessel Counts
r=0.42, p=0.030
Correlation of sTie-2 with SMI Neovessel Counts
r=0.37, p=0.057
Correlation of sFlt-1 with Histological Neovessel Counts
r=0.65, p=0.030
Correlation of sFlt-1 with SMI Neovessel Count
r=0.68, p=0.02
Key Findings
75% of patients exhibited intraplaque neovascularization (IPN).
Plasma sFlt-1 levels correlated significantly with SMI neovessel counts.
Histological neovessel counts also correlated with plasma sFlt-1 levels.
No significant associations were found between IPN and conventional risk factors.
Single-cell transcriptomics indicated broad expression of FLT1 and ANGPT2 in plaque cell populations.
Clinical Implications
The findings indicate that plasma levels of sFlt-1 may serve as a potential biomarker for assessing intraplaque neovascularization.
Conclusion
This pilot study highlights the association of higher plasma sFlt-1 levels with intraplaque neovascularization.
