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.
Keywords: AAA, abdominal aortic aneurysm; AAV, adeno-associated virus; Ang II, angiotensin II; CVF, collagen volume fraction; MMP, matrix metalloproteinase; PBS, phosphate-buffered saline; PCR, polymerase chain reaction; SM22α, smooth muscle protein 22-α; SMA, smooth muscle actin; SRF, serum response factor; TCF7L1; TCF7L1, transcription factor 7-like 1; VSMC, vascular smooth muscle cell; abdominal aortic aneurysms; cDNA, complementary DNA; mRNA, messenger RNA; phenotypic switching; siRNA, small interfering RNA; smooth muscle cell.
© 2023 The Authors.