Bobryshev YV, Moisenovich MM, Pustovalova OL, Agapov II, Orekhov AN.
Immunobiology. 2012 May;217(5):558-68. doi: 10.1016/j.imbio.2011.03.014. Epub 2011 Apr 22.

Abstract

The architectonics and cell composition of the human large arteries are not sufficiently understood. The present study is the first to undertake an analysis of the distribution and quantities of HLA-DR-expressing cells in grossly undiseased human intima using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent analysis, complemented by the advantages of confocal microscopy. The study revealed a widespread distribution of HLA-DR-expressing cells throughout the intimal space where the cells were integrated into continuous networks via long cell processes. Numbers of HLA-DR+ cells were found to be significantly larger in the middle third of the intima than in the superficial and deep intimal portions. We speculate that a widespread distribution of HLA-DR-expressing cells in the intima of normal human aorta might play a role in the surveillance and maintenance of vascular homeostasis.
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