Sirolimus-FKBP12.6 Impairs Endothelial Barrier Function through PKCα Activation and Disruption of the p120-VE Cadherin Interaction

Objective Sirolimus (SRL) is an immunosuppressant drug used to prevent rejection in organ transplantation and neointimal hyperplasia when delivered from drug eluting stents (DES). Major side effects of SRL include edema and local collection of intimal lipid deposits at the DES site suggesting that SRL impairs endothelial barrier function (EBF). The aim of this study was to address the role of SRL on impaired EBF and the potential mechanisms involved.