TGF-β1 and TIMP1 double directional rAAV targeted by UTMD in atherosclerotic vulnerable plaque

In the present study, we determined whether ultrasound-targeted microbubble destruction (UTMD) combined with dual targeting of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP) 1 recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) can stabilize atherosclerotic vulnerable plaques. First, we used rabbit model to detect the TGF-β1/TIMP1 virus therapy result. H&E staining was used to evaluate the tissues. The protein levels of TGF-β1 and TIMP1 were detected in rabbit models. The THP-1 cells were induced into macrophages, and transfected with TGF-β1 and TIMP1 rAAV under optimized UTMD. The expression of TGF-β1 and TIMP1 was measured by RT-PCR and western blotting. We found that the apoptotic rates were induced when compared to the control group. The rAAV virus group showed a significant decrease in the p-ERT and p-AKT expression. These data support the hypothesis that TGF-β1 and TIMP1 are crucial in the regulation of atherosclerotic plaques.