Endogenous Expression of C-Reactive Protein Is Increased in Active (Ulcerated Noncomplicated) Human Carotid Artery Plaques

Background and Purpose— There is growing evidence suggesting that C-reactive protein (CRP) is an effecter molecule able to induce and promote atherothrombosis. The presence of CRP in atherosclerotic plaques may reflect local production or infiltration from circulating CRP increased in general inflammatory responses. Our aim was to analyze the presence of CRP in human advanced carotid artery plaques with differential anatomo-pathological characteristics and to assess local expression of CRP and other proinflammatory genes in these lesions. Methods— Human carotid artery specimens from 38 patients undergoing scheduled endarterectomy were classified into 3 groups: ulcerated (noncomplicated) (UNC, n=19), fibrous (F, n=12) and ulcerated (complicated/hemorrhagic) plaques (UC, n=7). The presence of CRP was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, and plasma samples were screened for circulating high-sensitivity C-reactive protein. TaqMan Low-density Arrays were used for study of genes related to inflammation (CRP, inte...