부산대학교 도서관

Purpose: In this study, a detailed characterization of a rabbit model of atherosclerosis was performed to assess the optimal time frame for evaluating plaque vulnerability using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (SPION)- enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: The progression of atherosclerosis induced by ballooning and a high-cholesterol diet was monitored using angiography, and the resulting plaques were characterized using immunohistochemistry and histology. Morphometric analyses were performed to evaluate plaque size and vulnerability features. The accumulation of SPIONs (novel dextran- coated [SPION.sup.Dex] and ferumoxytol) in atherosclerotic plaques was investigated by histology and MRI and correlated with plaque age and vulnerability. Toxicity of [SPION.sup.Dex] was evaluated in rats. Results: Weak positive correlations were detected between plaque age and intima thickness, and total macrophage load. A strong negative correlation was observed between the minimum fibrous cap thickness and plaque age as well as the mean macrophage load. The accumulation of SPION in the atherosclerotic plaques was detected by MRI 24 h after administration and was subsequently confirmed by Prussian blue staining of histological specimens. Positive correlations between Prussian blue signal in atherosclerotic plaques, plaque age, and macrophage load were detected. Very little iron was observed in the histological sections of the heart and kidney, whereas strong staining of [SPION.sup.Dex] and ferumoxytol was detected in the spleen and liver. In contrast to ferumoxytol, [SPION.sup.Dex] administration in rabbits was well tolerated without inducing hypersensitivity. The maximum tolerated dose in rat model was higher than 100 mg Fe/kg. Conclusion: Older atherosclerotic plaques with vulnerable features in rabbits are a useful tool for investigating iron oxide-based contrast agents for MRI. Based on the experimental data, [SPION.sup.Dex] particles constitute a promising candidate for further clinical translation as a safe formulation that offers the possibility of repeated administration free from the risks associated with other types of magnetic contrast agents. Keywords: atherosclerosis, plaque vulnerability, rabbit model, macrophages, histology, tissue iron, SPION-enhanced MRI
Introduction Despite steady developments in anatomical and functional imaging techniques, > 50% of culprit atherosclerotic plaques are still identified in the acute clinical setting when they manifest as myocardial infarction, [...]