MMP-2 regulates Erk1/2 phosphorylation and aortic dilatation in Marfan syndrome.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Aneurysm and dissection of the ascending thoracic aorta are the main cardiovascular complications of Marfan syndrome (MFS) resulting in premature death. Studies using mouse models of MFS have shown that activation of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) and the concomitant upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) contribute to aneurysm development. Our previous study showed that doxycycline delayed aneurysm rupture in a mouse model of MFS, Fbn1(mgR/mgR). Losartan has been shown to prevent aneurysms in another mouse model of MFS, Fbn1(C1039G/+), through inhibition of the Erk1/2 pathway. However, the role of MMP-2 in MFS and effect of losartan on the lifespan of MFS mice remain unknown.

Objective

We investigated the role of MMP-2 in MFS and compared the ef

SUBMITTER: Xiong W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4162309 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature