Conclusions
Expression levels of cathepsin L and cystatin C in a hyperglycemic environment were associated with AA development in a mouse model.
Methods
Mice were divided into AA and DM+AA groups ( n=30 per group). DM was induced by injection of streptozotocin; AA was induced by injection of angiotensin II. Doppler examination was used to measure aortic diameter, and Weigert's elastic stain was used to detect elastin degradation. Cathepsin L and cystatin C in aortic tissue were examined by western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and polymerase chain reaction.
Results
Aortic diameter in the DM+AA group was less than that in the AA group, and elastin fragmentation grade of the aortic wall was reduced in the DM+AA group. More cathepsin L-positive cells were observed in the AA group than in the DM+AA group; conversely, more cystatin C-positive cells were observed in the DM+AA group than in the AA group. Both protein and mRNA levels of cathepsin L and cystatin C showed similar trends to those observed in immunohistochemistry. Conclusions: Expression levels of cathepsin L and cystatin C in a hyperglycemic environment were associated with AA development in a mouse model.