Endogenous CGRP protects against neointimal hyperplasia following wire-induced vascular injury

► In CGRP knockout mice, neointimal formation after vascular injury is exacerbated. ► CGRP deficiency affects injury-induced proliferation of VSMCs rather than ECs. ► In CGRP knockout mice, oxidative stress and macrophage infiltration are increased. ► Bone marrow-derived cells do not contribute to the enhanced neointimal formation. ► CGRP significantly suppresses VSMC proliferation and migration.