Fluorescence spectrum analysis of atherosclerotic plaque using doxycycline

Using doxycycline (DOXY), fluorescence spectrum analysis was performed on a rteriosclerotic lesions, and the efficacy of this method was examined in ba sic and clinical studies. In the basic study, DOXY 50 mg was administered i ntravenously to arteriosclerotic rabbits, and the thoracoabdominal aorta re moved. Fluorescence spectral analysis was performed on each specimen, and t he fluorescence spectral pattern, peak intensity and degree of intimal hype rtrophy were studied. In the clinical study, DOXY 200 mg was administered i ntravenously to 6 human subjects with stable angina and coronary arterial s tenosis of greater than 90%, and coronary angiography, coronary angioscopy and fluorescence spectral analysis were performed. DOXY accumulation in the arteriosclerotic intima of rabbit aortae was confirmed. The fluorescence s pectrum was monomodal, peaking at around 532 nm. In the noncalcification gr oup, significant correlation was observed between peak intensity and arteri osclerotic intimal thickness. Using DOXY as a fluorescent marker, it was po ssible to assess the level of arteriosclerotic intimal hypertrophy. Clinica lly, it was possible to obtain the DOXY spectrum of the coronary arteries.