We investigated ABT263 the effect of Skp2 on VSMC proliferation and neointimal formation in vivo.

Methods and Results. Firstly, we demonstrated that Skp2-null mice developed significantly smaller neointimal areas than wild-type mice after carotid ligation. Secondly, to further identify, a local rather than a systemic effect of Skp2 alteration, we demonstrated that adenovirus-mediated expression of dominant-negative Skp2 in the balloon-injured

rat carotid artery significantly increased medial p27(Kip1) levels, inhibited VSMC proliferation, and the subsequent neointimal thickening. Lastly, to determine if Skp2 alone is sufficient to drive VSMC proliferation and lesion development in vivo, we demonstrated that adenovirus-delivery of wild-type Skp2 to the minimally-injured rat carotids

is sufficient to downregulate p27(Kip1) protein levels, enhanced medial VSMC proliferation, and the neointimal thickening.

Conclusion: This data provides, we believe for the first time, a more comprehensive understanding of Skp2 in the regulation of VSMC proliferation and neointimal formation and suggests that see more Skp2 is a promising target in the treatment of vasculoproliferative diseases. (J Vasc Surg 2009;50:1135-42.)”
“OBJECTIVE: A spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistula (PMAVF) is a direct fistula of one or more spinal arteries into the perimedullary venous network with reversed venous flow and subsequent venous congestion of the spinal cord. The therapeutic goal of surgery is to normalize the venous drainage by obliterating the fistula. Strictly ventral lesions typically require an anterior approach to ensure adequate exposure of the fistula FER as well and the preservation of the physiological blood supply to the spinal cord.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION: We present a case of a ventral PMAVF at the level of T10 with feeders from the anterior spinal artery, caudally draining veins on the ventral spinal cord, and a dilated transmedullary vein filling

cranially draining veins on the dorsal aspect of the spinal cord.

TECHNIQUE: The dilated transmedullary vein was approached by a laminectomy. The vein was coagulated, and the gliotic channel was used to approach the ventral fistula site from the dorsal surface of the spinal cord. Complete obliteration of the fistula was achieved, and the preoperative neurological deficit improved.

CONCLUSION: We conclude that transmedullarly draining veins offers a possible dorsal approach for the occlusion of some ventral PMAVFs, thus avoiding more complex anterior approaches to the ventral spinal cord.”
“Objective: Image-guided surgery provides a mechanism to accurately and quickly assess the location of surgical tools relative to a preoperative image.