Antioxidants Relieve Phosphatase Inhibition and Reduce PDGF Signaling in Cultured VSMCs and in Restenosis

Abstract

PTP-inhibition was identified as an intrinsic component of H2O2- and PDGF-induced signaling in cultured VSMCs. The reduction in PDGF beta-receptor phosphorylation in vivo, and the increase in PTP activity, by antioxidants indicate activation of oxidized PTPs as a previously unrecognized mechanism for the antirestenotic effects of antioxidants. The findings thus suggest, in general terms, reactivation of oxidized PTPs as a novel antirestenotic strategy.