Objective To investigate the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGF) and chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) and their relationship in rabbit model of atherosclerotic plaques in order to explore the role of CXCR4 in atherosclerosis angiogenesis and its possible mechanism. Methods The 15 rabbit model of atherosclerotic plaques was established through aortic balloon injury and high cholesterol

diet. Levels of CXCR4 protein and VEGF gene was detected by Western blotting and fluorescent quantitative PCR(FQ - PCR)

respectively at 4

8 and 12 weeks

and the results were analyzed statistically. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the expression and location of atherosclerotic plaque CXCR4 and CD34. Results At the 3 time points

the level of CXCR4 was 0.46 ± 0.03

0.58 ± 0.05

0.65 ± 0.07

and the level of VEGF mRNA was 1.04 ± 0.24

1.99 ± 0.21

3.97 ± 0.75

respectively. The level of CXCR4 was positively correlated with that of VEGF(correlation coefficient

r

=0 . 869

P

0 . 05). Immunohistochemical staining showed that CXCR4 was expressed in the vascular intima and plaque. CD34 - positive staining was seen in vascular endothelial cells. There were rich new blood vessels in arterial intima plaque with CD34 expression. Conclusion The expression of CXCR4 is positively related with that of VEGF in the plaque progression

suggesting it may play an important role in angiogenesis.