Abstract: Methods, compositions, and devices for treating a vascular aneurysm, including an abdominal aortic aneurysm, are disclosed. In particular, the various embodiments relate to a method of treating an abdominal aortic aneurysm by increasing the mechanical stiffness of an aortic segment adjacent to the abdominal aortic aneurysm in a subject. The mechanical stiffness of the adjacent aortic segment may be increased, for example, by applying a surgical adhesive or intravascular stent. Such treatment reduces stress on the aortic wall and limits further growth of the abdominal aortic aneurysm.

Abstract: The present invention features methods for recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., endothelial cell precursors, hematopoietic stem cells) by administration of nicotine or other nicotine receptor agonist. The methods of the invention can be used in, for example, treatment of conditions amenable to treatment by recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., neutropenia).

Abstract: The present invention features methods for recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., endothelial cell precursors, hematopoietic stem cells) by administration of nicotine or other nicotine receptor agonist. The methods of the invention can be used in, for example, treatment of conditions amenable to treatment by recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., neutropenia).

Abstract: The present invention features methods for recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., endothelial cell precursors, hematopoietic stem cells) by administration of nicotine or other nicotine receptor agonist. The methods of the invention can be used in, for example, treatment of conditions amenable to treatment by recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., neutropenia).

Abstract: The invention provides genes (DEA genes) that are differentially expressed in atherosclerotic lesions and polypeptides encoded by these genes. The invention provides compositions comprising a targeting agent conjugated to a functional moiety, wherein the targeting agent selectively binds to a polypeptide encoded by one a DEA gene. The functional moiety can be an imaging agent, therapeutic agent, etc. The invention further provides methods for providing diagnostic or prognostic information related to atherosclerosis involving detecting expression or activity of an expression product of one or more of the DEA genes. The invention further provides therapeutic methods comprising administering to a subject a composition comprising a targeting agent conjugated to a functional moiety that binds selectively binds to a polypeptide encoded by a DEA gene.

Abstract: The present invention identifies circulating proteins that are differentially expressed in atherosclerosis. Circulating levels of these proteins, particularly as a panel of proteins, can discriminate patients with acute myocardial infarction from those with stable exertional angina and from those with no history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Such levels can also predict cardiovascular events, determine the effectiveness of therapy, stage disease, and the like. For example, these markers are useful as surrogate biomarkers of clinical events needed for development of vascular specific pharmaceutical agents.

Abstract: Methods for modulating the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a cell or tissue by administering compounds that modulate the activity of ?PKC are described. In one embodiment, the level of ROS is decreased by administering a peptide effective to inhibit the activity of ?PKC. In another embodiment, the level of ROS is increased by administering a peptide having activity to agonize the activity of ?PKC. Also described are methods to treat or inhibit development of conditions preceded by or exacerbated by an increased level of ROS, such as arteriosclerosis and inflammatory diseases.

Abstract: The present invention features methods for recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., endothelial cell precursors, hematopoietic stem cells) by administration of nicotine or other nicotine receptor agonist. The methods of the invention can be used in, for example, treatment of conditions amenable to treatment by recruitment of bone marrow-derived stem cells (e.g., neutropenia).