Fibroblast activation protein is induced by inflammation and degrades type I collagen in thin-cap fibroatheromata

摘要

AimsCollagen degradation in atherosclerotic plaques with thin fibrous caps renders them more prone to rupture. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) plays a role in arthritis and tumour formation through its collagenase activity. However, the significance of FAP in thin-cap human fibroatheromata remains unknown.