Biological characteristics of aortic smooth muscle cells involving in lipid metabolism : the distribution and synthesis of apolipoprotein J and cholesteryl ester transfer protein.

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Immunohistochemical distribution of apolipoproteins in the abdominal aortas of 142 men, 15-34 years of age, collected in USA, was examined in relationship to serum VLDL+LDL, HDL cholesterol levels. The pattern of apoJ distribution was similar to that of apoA-I and E.The extent of apolipoprotein distribution in the intima and media increased with age and the stage of atherosclerosis. The infiltration of lipoprotein particles into aortic wall seems to be strongly associated with the progression of intimal lesions. ApoJ is produced by smooth muscle cells in the intima and has a role of reverse cholesterol transport in young subjects.In addition, the distribution and synthesis of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) were examined by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. CETP was constantly distributed in the media, and it was recognized in the intimal smooth muscle cells within atheroslerotic lesions. CETP mRNA was also detected in the aortic smooth muscle cells.From these results, arterial smooth muscle cells positively participate in the removal of excessive cholesterol from the arterial wall through apoJ and CETP production.