TCF7L1 Accelerates Smooth Muscle Cell Phenotypic Switching and Aggravates Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells is a central process in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) pathology. We found that knockdown TCF7L1 (transcription factor 7-like 1), a member of the TCF/LEF (T cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor) family of transcription factors, inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell differ-entiation. This study hints at potential interventions to maintain a normal, differentiated smooth muscle cell state, thereby eliminating the pathogenesis of AAA. In addition, our study provides insights into the potential use of TCF7L1 as a biomarker for AAA. (J Am Coll Cardiol Basic Trans Science 2023;8:155-170) & COPY; 2023 The Authors. Published by Elsevier on behalf of the American College of Cardiology Foundation. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/).

Automated summary

Phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells plays a central role in abdominal aortic aneurysm pathology. Knockdown of TCF7L1 inhibits the differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells. This study suggests potential interventions to prevent AAA by maintaining a normal differentiated smooth muscle cell state, and TCF7L1 may serve as a biomarker for AAA.