Estrogen Receptors and Peripheral Artery Disease

PAD is the atherosclerotic obstruction of the arteries of the lower extremities and it is widespread especially in highly developed countries. The most common complication of PAD is critical limb ischemia with rest pain and leg ulcers. To date the pathophysiology of PAD is linked to atherosclerosis but other pathways are also under evaluation. A recent study (Serra et al) investigated the presence of ER-alfa, ER-beta, and GPER in the wall of normal and varicose veins. The aim of this observational study is to evaluate the expression and the role of estrogen receptors in patients with PAD, and undergoing surgical treatment with reconstructive arterial surgery. Therefore, we will collect tissue samples from diseased arteries that will be further analyzed for ER expression. We will then correlate the results with the clinical spectrum of the patients.