Fig. 2.

Pretreatment of the TLR2 ligand Pam3CSK4 decreases the incidence and severity of AAA formation. Treatment of Pam3CSK4 significantly reduced the incidence (a) and severity (b) of AAA formation (**p < 0.01, n = 26/group). c The external diameter of the aorta was also significantly decreased by Pam3CSK4 pretreatment (p < 0.001 vs. placebo, n = 26). d Pam3CSK4 pretreatment attenuates AngII-induced remodeling of the aortic wall. Area defined by the square in VVG staining shows elastin fibers; the square at lower right from AngII treatment alone demonstrates the elastin degradation. VVG, Verhoeff-Van Gieson.