Recent Advances in Deciphering Normal and Diseased Aortic Valve Biology Using Transcriptomic Technologies

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Genomics
• Translational Medicine

Background:

• Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) presents a significant global health challenge with no current pharmacological treatments.
• Understanding the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms of the aortic valve (AV) is crucial for developing effective therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in understanding AV structure, function, and cellular dynamics in CAVD.
• To identify and prioritize molecular targets for CAVD therapy development using transcriptomic data.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing transcriptomic approaches, including RNA sequencing (RNAseq) and single-cell sequencing (scRNAseq).
• Analyzing valvular cell plasticity, heterogeneity, and intercellular interactions (e.g., between valvular endothelial cells and monocytes).
• Integrating findings to characterize baseline AV processes and disease-associated alterations.

Main Results:

• Transcriptomic studies reveal complex cellular heterogeneity and plasticity within the AV.
• Interactions between valvular endothelial cells and monocytes are highlighted as critical in CAVD pathogenesis.
• Key molecular targets implicated in CAVD progression have been identified.

Conclusions:

• Transcriptomic insights are vital for understanding CAVD mechanisms and identifying therapeutic strategies.
• Further validation of identified molecular targets through experimental studies is necessary.
• This review provides a foundation for developing novel pharmacological treatments for CAVD.