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Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Molecular Analysis of Endothelial-mesenchymal Transition Induced by Transforming Growth Factor-β Signaling
Published on: August 3, 2018
Lipids in endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition
Christina K Tripsas1,2, Abigail Y Tsai3, Jeffrey J Hsu2,4,5,6
1Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine.
Lipids initiate endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) in atherosclerosis, impacting plaque stability and sex differences. This review explores lipid modulation and EndMT-specific therapies for cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Research
- Cell Biology
- Atherosclerosis Pathophysiology
Background:
- Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a key process in cardiovascular disease development, particularly atherosclerosis.
- EndMT is a complex cellular continuum influenced by various regulatory pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent studies on the role of lipids in initiating EndMT during atherosclerosis.
- To examine the impact of lipids on atherosclerotic plaque stability and sex-specific disease differences.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on recent studies.
- Analysis of lipid involvement in EndMT initiation.
- Examination of atherosclerotic plaque stability and sex-specific factors.
Main Results:
- Lipids and related factors are crucial in initiating EndMT in atherosclerosis.
- Lipid dysregulation contributes to atherosclerotic plaque instability.
- Significant sex-specific differences exist in EndMT and atherosclerosis.
Conclusions:
- Lipid modulation strategies show promise for treating EndMT-related cardiovascular disease.
- EndMT-specific approaches may influence lipid deposition.
- Further research into EndMT modulation is warranted for therapeutic development.
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