Effects of PKF275-055, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor, on the development of atherosclerotic lesions in apolipoprotein E-null mice

We recently discovered that glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide can both prevent the development of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-null (Apoe−/−) mice. In the present study, we attempted to extend these findings to orally administered dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP)-4 inhibitor. Seventeen-week-old Apoe−/− mice fed an atherogenic diet were administered a DPP-4 inhibitor, vildagliptin analogue (PKF275-055 [PKF], 100 µm/[kg d]), in drinking water over a period of 4 weeks. Aortic atherosclerosis and oxidized low-density lipoprotein-induced foam cell formation were determined. Orally administered PKF increased plasma levels of active glucagon-like peptide-1 by 3.5-fold, increased total glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide levels by 2-fold, reduced body weight by 13%, and reduced plasma cholesterol levels by 30%. Compared with drinking water controls, PKF significantly suppressed total aortic atherosclerotic lesions, atheromatous plaque in the aortic root, and macrophage accumulation in the aortic wall by 30% to 40% (P < .001). None of these changes were associated with the PKF-induced reductions in body weight and plasma cholesterol levels. Foam cell formation was suppressed by 40% in the exudate peritoneal macrophages obtained from the PKF-treated mice. The DPP-4 inhibitor prevents the development of atherosclerotic lesions by suppressing macrophage foam cell formation.