Work

Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) in the pathogenesis of hereditary thoracic aneurysm disorders

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway regulates biological processes critical to embryonic development and tissue homeostasis, including cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion and migration. Perturbations in TGF-β signaling are linked to a wide range of human diseases, including those affecting the cardiovascular system. This review summarizes decades-long evidence documenting the importance of this pathway to hereditary forms of aortic disease and presents current perspectives on its role in pathogenesis. We discuss the dual role of TGF-β signaling in aneurysm progression, and its protective and maladaptive effects on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) phenotype, extracellular matrix (ECM) composition, and other disease-relevant signaling pathways.

Source: Cardiovascular Pathology

Authors: Wendy A. Espinoza Camejo, Emily E. Bramel, Elena Gallo MacFarlane

Institutions: Johns Hopkins University, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Broad Institute

Language: English

Topic: Connective tissue disorders research

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,210

Funders: American Heart Association, National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute