EXPRESSION OF INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH-FACTOR RECEPTOR MESSENGER-RNA IN RABBIT ATHEROSCLEROTIC LESIONS

We have found by 'in situ' hybridization a high level of expression of insulin- like growth factor I receptor (IGF-I R) gene in foam cells o f atherosclerotic rabbit aortas. By reaction with either anti- rabbit macrophage (RAM11) or anti smooth muscle cell antibodies we also found that most cells expressing increased amounts of IGF-I R mRNA were of smooth muscle cell origin. Thus, increased IGF-I R mRNA levels might b e related to the genesis of the atheroma plaque. (C) 1995 Academic Pre ss, Inc.