Gene Transfer of the Serine Elastase Inhibitor Elafin Protects Against Vein Graft Degeneration

Abstract

Gene transfer of the selective serine elastase inhibitor elafin in vein grafts is effective in reducing the early inflammatory response. Although transient expression of elafin delays neointimal formation, it is also sufficient to cause an alteration in elastin content of the extracellular matrix, making it relatively resistant to atherosclerotic degeneration.