Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitor reduces intimal hyperplasia in rabbit autologous jugular vein graft under poor distal runoff

Intimal hyperplasia is a major obstacle to patency after vein grafting. Although various treatments have been tested, a standard clinical treatment for intimal hyperplasia remains elusive. Here, in a rabbit model, long-term systemic administration of vildagliptin improved endothelial function, increased nitric oxide release, and reduced intimal hyperplasia in vein grafts. Our results support that dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibition is beneficial by limiting intimal hyperplasia in vein grafts.