Antigen specificity of T lymphocytes from unstable human atherosclerotic plaques

Atherosclerotic lesions are characterized by the presence of an inflammatory
infiltrate, predominantly macrophages and T lymphocytes. Several lines of
evidence have shown that local activation of T lymphocytes contributes to
atherosclerotic plaque inflammation and the onset of acute cardiovascular
complications. At present it is not clear which antigens are responsible for
the activation of T lymphocytes in human atherosclerotic tissue, but antigens
that have been suggested to play a role include lipoproteins and antigens from
microbial origin. The aim of the present study is a functional characterization
(including the antigen specificity) of T cells from unstable human
atherosclerotic lesions.

In vitro characterization of T lymphocytes from human atherosclerotic lesions.

Isolation of T lymphocytes from human atherosclerotic tissue, and further in
vitro characterization. Because we want to increase the amount of tissue with
which we can perform experiments, tissue will be collected at two diferent
locations, the Slotervaart hospital and the AMC. Studies that will be perfomed
with these specimens are similar to those that have already been published:
- de Boer et al, Cardiovasc Res. 2000 48: 402-8.
- de Boer et al, Atherosclerosis. 2006 184:322-9.

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