Biochemistry and molecular regulation of matrix macromolecules in abdominal aortic aneurysms

Anuja Ghorpade, B. Timothy Baxter

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

50 Scopus citations

Abstract

Past concepts of aneurysmal dilatation as a passive process of attenuation are oversimplified and inaccurate. Aneurysm formation is a complex remodeling process that involves both synthesis and degradation of matrix proteins. Interstitial procollagen gene expression is increased in AAA compared to AOD or normal aorta, whereas tropoelastin gene expression is decreased in both AOD and AAA. The medial elastin network is disrupted and discontinuous in small AAA. Thus, the growth rate of an established AAA may well relate to the balance between collagen synthesis and degradation. Although the increased procollagen expression found in AAA may represent a compensatory response, understanding the factors that modulate matrix metabolism in AAA may allow for development of pharmacologic strategies which effectively inhibit the growth of small aneurysms.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)138-150
Number of pages13
JournalAnnals of the New York Academy of Sciences
Volume800
DOIs
StatePublished - 1996

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology
  • History and Philosophy of Science

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