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A New Murine Model of Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Published on: July 7, 2013
Advances and challenges in regenerative therapies for abdominal aortic aneurysm
Calvin L Chao1, Brandon Applewhite2, Nidhi K Reddy1
1Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States.
Abstract:
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a significant source of mortality worldwide and carries a mortality of greater than 80% after rupture. Despite extensive efforts to develop pharmacological treatments, there is currently no effective agent to prevent aneurysm growth and rupture. Current treatment paradigms only rely on the identification and surveillance of small aneurysms, prior to ultimate open surgical or endovascular repair. Recently, regenerative therapies have emerged as promising avenues to address the degenerative changes observed in AAA. This review briefly outlines current clinical management principles, characteristics, and pharmaceutical targets of AAA. Subsequently, a thorough discussion of regenerative approaches is provided. These include cellular approaches (vascular smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, and mesenchymal stem cells) as well as the delivery of therapeutic molecules, gene therapies, and regenerative biomaterials. Lastly, additional barriers and considerations for clinical translation are provided. In conclusion, regenerative approaches hold significant promise for in situ reversal of tissue damages in AAA, necessitating sustained research and innovation to achieve successful and translatable therapies in a new era in AAA management.
Insights
Regenerative therapies show promise for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) by reversing tissue damage. Further research is needed to translate these innovative approaches into effective clinical treatments for AAA.
Area of Science:
- Vascular biology
- Regenerative medicine
- Cardiovascular research
Background:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a major cause of global mortality, with rupture carrying over 80% mortality.
- Current AAA management relies on surveillance and surgical repair, lacking effective pharmacological prevention.
- Degenerative changes in AAA present a target for novel therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current clinical management and pharmaceutical targets for AAA.
- To discuss emerging regenerative approaches for AAA treatment.
- To identify barriers and considerations for clinical translation of regenerative therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current AAA management principles and pharmaceutical targets.
- Comprehensive analysis of regenerative strategies, including cellular therapies, molecular delivery, gene therapy, and biomaterials.
- Discussion of challenges and future directions for clinical implementation.
Main Results:
- No current pharmacological agents effectively prevent AAA growth or rupture.
- Regenerative approaches, encompassing various cell types and therapeutic molecules, offer potential for tissue repair.
- Significant barriers to clinical translation require further research and innovation.
Conclusions:
- Regenerative medicine holds substantial promise for in situ reversal of AAA-related tissue damage.
- Sustained research and innovation are crucial for developing translatable regenerative therapies for AAA.
- These approaches herald a new era in the management of abdominal aortic aneurysms.
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