Assessment of androgen receptor, IGF-IR and insulin receptor expression in male patients with severe peripheral artery disease.

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) of the lower limbs is a common condition that can affect quality of life. Androgen receptor (AR) can exert sex-specific effects on metabolic system, endothelial function and vascular tone. IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) and insulin receptor (IR) may also be involved in the aforementioned functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate AR, IGF-IR and IR expression in the arterial vessel walls of PAD patients.

RESULTS:

This is a cross-sectional study examining 30 males with PAD undergoing open surgery procedures. Mean age was 75.9 ± 8.8y. All patients belonged to Rutherford stage 4-6. Median expression levels of IR, IGF-IR and AR significantly decreased from stage 4-6 (p < 0.05).

SIGNIFICANCE:

The study evidenced a progressive decrease of IR, IGF-IR and AR expression as the severity of disease increased. Altered levels of IR, IGF-IR and AR following PAD may be useful for the clinical evaluation of these patients.

• Authors: Michele Andreucci, Damiano Cosimo Rigiracciolo, Umberto Marcello Bracale, Nicola Ielapi, Michele Provenzano, Diletta D'Iuorno, Ashour Michael, Pasquale Mastroroberto, Giuseppe Filiberto Serraino, Marcello Maggiolini, Raffaele Serra
• Journal: Heliyon (Heliyon) Vol. 8 Issue 1 Pg. e08756 (Jan 2022) ISSN: 2405-8440 [Print] England
• PMID: 35059526 (Publication Type: Journal Article)
• Copyright: © 2022 The Author(s).