Effect of MK-571, a selective leukotriene D4 receptor antagonist, on vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and interleukin 1 release

Recent studies suggest the involvement of inflammatory mechanisms in the progression of atherosclerosis. Coculturing cysteinyl leukotriene D-4 with vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) produced an increased cell proliferation, as assessed by [H-3]-Thymidine incorporation studies, as well as cell count. MK-571, a specific leukotriene D-4 (LTD(4)) receptor antagonist, inhibited the mitogenic effect induced by LTD(4). Futhermore the autocrine production of interleukin-1 (IL-1), concomitant to LTD, stimulation, was again controlled by MK-571. A new role for MK-571 may possibly be suggested in the control of the atherogenic process.