New study discovers proteins involved in arterial stiffening

Researchers have identified the proteins involved in the process of arterial stiffening, a leading contributor to cardiovascular disease.

A team from the University of Missouri have utilised advanced 3D microscopic imaging technology to monitor how the protein known as elastin supports the ability of the arterial wall to function properly.

As people age, the elastin content in their arteries diminishes and is replaced by other proteins such as collagen, thus leading to circulatory complications and conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

The scientists now believe that altering elastin levels could alleviate some of the detrimental results associated with vascular aging, while the knowledge could also aid efforts to create artificial vascular structures to improve tissue replacement.

Michael Hill, professor of medical pharmacology and physiology at the university, noted: "Molecular biologists are trying to determine how to turn elastin production back on in the correct places, but it has proven very difficult so far."

Coronary heart disease is the UK's biggest killer, with NHS statistics showing that it accounts for 94,000 deaths each year.