The effect of elastase on chickens with endogenous hyperlipidemia.

Elastase has been reported to have a multiplicity of activities which may be protective against atherosclerosis. The data reported here support those reports and show a clear antiatherosclerotic effect in hyperlipidemic chickens. We have shown here that a reduction in calcium and lipid accumulation in aortic tissue and possibly a plasma cholesterol lowering effect can be seen in the chicken when treated with elastase. The most important effect in this animal is probably to aid removal of lipid bound to elastin in the intima. This was achieved at a dose of only 600 U elastase while reductions in tissue calcium required 1800 U elastase.