Ricerc@Sapienza

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the chronic effects of mesoglycan on the vascular
remodeling in patients with metabolic syndrome (Mets).
Background: MetS is defined by a clustering of vascular risk factors that require both pharmacologic
and non-pharmacologic interventions, including body weight reductions and physical activity. The
correction of vascular remodeling associated with MetS has lately received increasing interest.
Methods: Thirty consecutive ambulatory patients affected by MetS were 2:1 randomized in a doubleblind
fashion to receive mesoglycan or placebo, respectively. At the beginning and after 90 days of
oral treatment we appraised the effects of mesoglycan (50 mg per os bid) or placebo on vascular
remodeling, as assessed by the measurement of arterial wall elastic properties. Moreover, the matrix
metalloproteinase’s (MMPs) type 9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) type 1 were
analyzed by enzyme-linked immune sorbent assay (ELISA) and gelatin substrate zymography at the
beginning of the study and after 90 days of treatment.
Results: After 90 days of treatment, a marked improvement of arterial distensibility and compliance
was detected in Mesoglycan group, with associated significant reduction of arterial stiffness, and a
significant reduction of serum levels of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 and significant reduction of enzyme
activity of MMPs.
Conclusions: This small, preliminary study shows that mesoglycan exerts relevant effects on
vascular remodeling after three-month treatment, in patients affected by metabolic syndrome.