Calpain-2-Mediated Endothelial Focal Adhesion Disruption in Thoracic Aortic Dissection.

ABSTRACT: Thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) is a life-threatening condition with high mortality rates. Recent research suggests a potential link between early-stage TAD and endothelial barrier dysfunction, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Single-cell RNA sequencing data from patients reveal that dysregulated Calpain-2 expression modulates endothelial focal adhesion proteins, serving as an early pathological hallmark and driver of TAD. Elevated plasma calpain activity is strongly associated with an increased risk of TAD and organ dysfunction. Both endogenous and exogenous calpain inhibitors effectively prevent TAD onset and progression in murine models induced by β-aminopropionitrile (BAPN). In early TAD, endothelial junction integrity in the ascending aorta and aortic arch is compro

SUBMITTER: Teng X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12224997 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature