Osteoprotegerin Inhibits Vascular Calcification Without Affecting Atherosclerosis in ldlr (−/−) Mice

• DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.107.707380
• Publication Date: 2008-01-03T01:59:14Z
• Authors: Sean Morony; Yin Tintut; Zina Zhang; Russell C. Cattley; Gwyneth Van; Denise Dwyer; Marina Stolina; Paul J. Kostenuik; Linda L. Demer
• Keywords: Arteriosclerosis

Background— The role of osteoprotegerin in vascular disease is unclear. Recent observational studies show that serum levels are associated with the severity and progression coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, calcification patients. However, genetic treatment mice suggest may protect against calcification. Methods Results— To test whether induces or prevents we treated atherogenic diet–fed ldlr (−/−) recombinant (Fc-OPG) vehicle for 5 months. Vehicle-treated developed significant, progressive atherosclerosis increased plasma levels, consistent studies, ≈15% these atherosclerotic lesions calcified cartilage-like metaplasia. Treatment Fc-OPG significantly reduced lesion area without affecting size number, cytokines, cholesterol levels. also tissue aortic osteocalcin, a marker mineralization. Conclusions— These data support vasculature as an inhibitor marker, rather than mediator, atherosclerosis.