Diabetes modifies the relationships among carotid plaque calcification, composition and inflammation

Background and aims Diabetes is traditionally associated with vascular calcification, but the molecular mechanisms are largely unknown. We herein explored the relationships among carotid plaque calcification, composition and gene expression, and how these are modified by diabetes. Methods We collected carotid endoarterectomy specimen from 59 patients, of whom 23 had diabetes. We analysed histology with pentachromic staining, calcification with...