The study on relation of MMP-2, TIMP-2 and brachytherapy with ~(32)P liquid filled balloon preventing restenosis after angioplasty

Objective To study the relation between endovascular brachythrapy with 32P liquid filled balloon and restenosis, at the same time investigate the changes and the effection of matrix metalloproteinases and it’s tissue inhibitors during this course. Methods A total of 24 rabbits injured of double iliac arteries with balloon, were fed with cholesterol food for six weeks. They were divided into three groups: 9.1 Gy, 21.8 Gy, 33.4 Gy. Angioplasty and 32P brachytherapy were procedured at one side randomly, the other side non-radioactive therapy was served as self-controlled. The iliac artery angiography was performed to observe the target vessel restenosis degree. The matrix metalloproteinase-2 and its inhibitor level were tested with in situ hybridization. Results After five weeks of brachytherapy, the results were: ①Angiography: comparatively, the average luminal diameter stenosis in 21.8 Gy group was the slightest (P0.01). ②In situ hybridization results: in 21.8 Gy group, the percentage of MMP-2 mRNA positive areas by staining was the smallest and that of the inhibitor was the largest (P0.01). Conclusion Endovascular brachytherapy at proper dose with filled balloon catheter system could prevent restenosis significantly after angioplasty.