Fellowship for Xiaofeng Chen: Role of TGF-B1 in AngII-induced Ascending Aortic Aneurysm

Expansion and rupture of the ascending aorta is the most common lifethreatening complication of Marfan’s syndrome (MFS). Tumor growth factor-beta (TGF- â) and angiotensin II (AngII) have emerged as principal mediators in the pathology of the ascending aorta. However, the specific mode of interaction of these principal mediators in the development of the disease is unclear. Additionally, increased TGF-â signaling has been detected in ascending aneurysmal aortas of MFS. While TGF-â may be secreted from the two major vascular cell types, endothelial and SMCs, the cellular source of TGF-â contributes to ascending aortic aneurysms (AAs) remains unclear.