Assessment of androgen receptor, IGF-IR and insulin receptor expression in male patients with severe peripheral artery disease

Background: Peripheral artery disease (PAD) of the lower limbs is a common condition that can affect quality of life. Androgen receptor (AR) can exert sex-specific effects on metabolic system, endothelial function and vascular tone. IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR) and insulin receptor (IR) may also be involved in the aforementioned functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate AR, IGF-IR and IR expression in the arterial vessel walls of PAD patients. Results: This is a cross-sectional study examining 30 males with PAD undergoing open surgery procedures. Mean age was 75.9 +/- 8.8y. All patients belonged to Rutherford stage 4-6. Median expression levels of IR, IGF-IR and AR significantly decreased from stage 4-6 (p < 0.05). Significance: The study evidenced a progressive decrease of IR, IGF-IR and AR expression as the severity of disease increased. Altered levels of IR, IGF-IR and AR following PAD may be useful for the clinical evaluation of these patients.

Automated summary

This study examined the expression of AR, IGF-IR, and IR in the arterial vessel walls of PAD patients and found that the expression levels of these receptors gradually decreased as the severity of the disease increased.