This record provides bibliographic details and links to the original research. An editorial study breakdown is not available.
What the researchers found
Tβ4 regulates LRP1-mediated endocytosis of PDGFR-β to maintain vascular stability. Tβ4-null mice develop aortic aneurysms rescuable by imatinib.
Why it matters
LRP1 variants are linked to aortic aneurysm risk in humans. Understanding how Tβ4 regulates this system could lead to new prevention strategies.
The numbers in context
Tβ4-null: VSMC + elastin defects; enhanced PDGFR-β signaling; increased recycling, reduced lysosomal targeting of LRP1-PDGFR-β; imatinib rescue
How the study worked
Mouse genetic study (Tβ4-null mice). Angiotensin II-induced aneurysm model. In vitro endocytosis and signaling studies. Imatinib rescue experiment.
Who was studied
Tβ4-null mice and wild-type controls with Angiotensin II-induced aneurysm
What this study cannot tell us
Mouse model. Angiotensin II-induced aneurysm may not fully represent human disease. Imatinib has significant side effects for chronic use.
Read the original research
Thymosin β4 protects against aortic aneurysm via endocytic regulation of growth factor signaling.
The Journal of clinical investigation, 131(10)
Citation
Munshaw, Sonali; Bruche, Susann; Redpath, Andia N; Jones, Alisha; Patel, Jyoti; Dubé, Karina N; Lee, Regent; Hester, Svenja S; Davies, Rachel; Neal, Giles; Handa, Ashok; Sattler, Michael; Fischer, Roman; Channon, Keith M; Smart, Nicola. (2021). Thymosin β4 protects against aortic aneurysm via endocytic regulation of growth factor signaling.. The Journal of clinical investigation, 131(10). https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI127884