Background. Extensive extracellular matrix remodelling is present in the wall of varicose veins. The process is controlled by numerous factors, including peptide growth factors. The aim of the study was to evaluate the content of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3), and insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) in the wall of varicose veins and varicose veins complicated by thrombophlebitis.
Material and methods. Walls of varicose veins and varicose veins complicated by thrombophlebitis made up the studied material. Walls of normal saphenous veins, which were harvested from patients with chronic limb ischaemia undergoing infrainguinal by-pass grafting, made up the control material. Contents of IGF-I, IGFBP-3, and IGF-1R in the investigated tissues were evaluated using the ELISA method.
Results. IGF-I content in walls of varicose veins and varicose veins complicated by thrombophlebitis were comparable, and were increased compared to the walls of normal veins. IGFBP-3 content was significantly increased only in the walls of varicose veins complicated by thrombophlebitis. IGF-1R level were increased in the walls of varicose veins compared to the walls normal of veins; whereas, in the course of thrombophlebitis, it was increased compared to the walls of normal veins, as well as uncomplicated varicose veins.
Conclusions. The study results indicate differences in IGF-I, IGFBP-3, and IGF-1R content between walls of healthy veins, varicose veins, and varicose veins complicated by thrombophlebitis.
Acta Angiol 2011; 17, 4: 264–270