TCF7L1 Accelerates Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Switching and Aggravates Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Jing Wang, Xiaoxiang Tian, Chenghui Yan, Hanlin Wu, Yuxin Bu, Jia Li, Dan Liu, Yaling Han
Abstract
Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells is a central process in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) pathology. We found that knockdown TCF7L1 (transcription factor 7-like 1), a member of the TCF/LEF (T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor) family of transcription factors, inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell differentiation. This study hints at potential interventions to maintain a normal, differentiated smooth muscle cell state, thereby eliminating the pathogenesis of AAA. In addition, our study provides insights into the potential use of TCF7L1 as a biomarker for AAA.
Topics & Concepts
Transcription factorVascular smooth muscleGene knockdownPathogenesisCellPhenotypeEnhancerBiologyCell biologyAbdominal aortic aneurysmSmooth muscleCancer researchAneurysmPathologyAnatomyImmunologyMedicineEndocrinologyGeneGeneticsRadiologyAortic aneurysm repair treatmentsInfectious Aortic and Vascular ConditionsAortic Disease and Treatment Approaches