Scientists identify a probable contributor to weakness of the aorta in people with genetic disorder.

Johns Hopkins Medicine scientists have identified a potential reason why patients with Loeys-Dietz syndrome are prone to developing aneurysms at the root of the aorta. The study found that vascular smooth muscle cells in the aortic root of mice with this disorder produce excessive amounts of the critical protein Gata4, making them susceptible to aneurysms. Understanding the vulnerability of the aortic root in Loeys-Dietz syndrome may lead to improved treatment strategies for this condition and other vascular connective tissue disorders. [Extracted from the article]