Immunohistochemical analysis of SMAD proteins expression in experimental atherogenesis.

Michaela Koubová Immunohistochemical analysis of SMAD protein expression in experimental atherogenesis Diploma thesis Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Pharmacy in Hradec Králové Pharmacy Background: The aim of this diploma thesis was to analyze SMAD 2/3 expression in mice atherosclerosis lesions and find differences in the expression between animals feeding with standard diet and diet with addition of atorvastatin. The aim was demonstrate whether atorvastatin influences SMAD 2/3 expression without hypolipidemic effects. Methods: Female C57BL/6J apolipoprotein E and LDL-receptor double deficient mice were used in the study. Biochemical analysis of blood samples, histological and immunohistochemical analysis of aorta were performed. For identification of SMAD 2/3 expression was used EnVision method with DAB visualization. Results: Biochemical analysis revealed that the eight-week administration of atorvastatin resulted in a statistically significant increase in total cholesterol. Histological analysis showed that administration of atorvastatin resulted in significant reductions in the size of atherosclerotic plaques compared with untreated group.Immunohistochemical analysis showed SMAD 2/3 expression in atherosclerotic plaques in both groups.Significant differences in the expression of SMAD..