The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) is the prototype of the TGF-β family of growth and
differentiation factors, which is encoded by 33 genes in mammals and comprises homo-and …

Abstract TGF-β 1–3 are unique multi-functional growth factors that are only expressed in
mammals, and mainly secreted and stored as a latent complex in the extracellular matrix …

Aortic aneurysm is a vascular disease whereby the ECM (extracellular matrix) of a blood
vessel degenerates, leading to dilation and eventually vessel wall rupture. Recently, it was …

Aortic aneurysm is an asymptomatic disease with dire outcomes if undiagnosed. Aortic
aneurysm rupture is a significant cause of death worldwide. To date, surgical repair or …

The basic elements of the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) pathway were revealed more
than a decade ago. Since then, the concept of how the TGFβ signal travels from the …

Background: Thoracic aortic aneurysms progressively enlarge and predispose to acute
aortic dissections. Up to 25% of individuals with thoracic aortic disease harbor an underlying …

Mitral valve disease is a frequent cause of heart failure and death. Emerging evidence
indicates that the mitral valve is not a passive structure, but—even in adult life—remains …

Background Aortic-root dissection is the leading cause of death in Marfan's syndrome.
Studies suggest that with regard to slowing aortic-root enlargement, losartan may be more …

Surgical aortic specimens are usually examined in Pathology Departments as a result of
treatment of aneurysms or dissections. A number of diseases, genetic syndromes (Marfan …

Cardiovascular disease encompasses a range of conditions extending from myocardial
infarction to congenital heart disease, most of which are heritable. Enormous effort has been …