Tgf-Beta Signaling And Microrna Cross-Talk Regulates Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Progression

Abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) are permanent and irreversible local dilatations of the abdominal aortic wall. Recent data indicate that the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling pathway exerts a protective effect on the development of AAA. Some dysregulated microRNAs (miRNA) also appear involved in the expansion of AAA and miRNA-based therapeutics have been shown to effectively inhibit this process. New evidence has revealed that TGF-beta signaling and miRNA interaction may of physiologic and pathophysiologic significance including the progression of AAA. As such, miRNA that regulate TGF-beta signaling may hold promise as potential therapeutic targets. This review explores potential crosstalk between TGF-beta signaling and miRNA in AAA in order improve our understanding of this pathology and explore development of potential therapeutic targets.