Effect of GW4869 on Ox-LDL-induced apoptosis in cultured VSMCs (n = 3).

<p>Cells were incubated in control medium (in DMSO), 50 µg/ml Ox-LDL alone (in DMSO), 50 µg/ml Ox-LDL in the presence of 20 µM GW4869 (in DMSO) or 50 µg/ml Ox-LDL in the presence of 20 µM GW4869 and 5 µM C2-ceramide (in DMSO) for 24 hours. (<b>A</b>) The percentage of apoptotic cells was then assessed. (<b>B</b>) Caspase-3 activity was measured and results are shown as percentage of control. (<b>C</b>) p-Bcl2 and p-Bad protein levels were detected by immunoblot analysis. (<b>D</b>) p-Bcl2 and p-Bad protein levels were quantified and normalized to total Bcl2 and Bad levels. (<b>E</b>) Cells were treated with/without 20 µM GW4869 and 5 µM C2-ceramide in the presence of Ox-LDL for 7 days. The calcium content was quantified using ocresolphthalein complexone method. *p<0.01.