LINE-1 retrotransposon demethylation is associated to atherosclerotic plaques destabilization

Abstract

We analyzed the LINE-1 methylation level in carotid atherosclerotic plaques, macrophages and smooth muscle cells isolated from plaques and in the blood leukocytes of patients with clinically significant atherosclerosis and leukocytes of healthy donors. A reduced level of LINE-1 methylation in atherosclerotic plaques was detected compared to leukocytes, as well as it was associated with the histological features of carotid plaque instability.