Mouse Models of Aortic Pathologies: Deciphering Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms from Bench to Bedside

Aortic pathologies, including abdominal aortic aneurysm, thoracic aortic aneurysm, and aortic dissection, are life-threatening conditions characterized by complex pathophysiology and a lack of simple, early, and reliable diagnostic tools.

This review synthesizes current knowledge on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying aortic pathologies, with a particular focus on vascular smooth muscle cell dysfunction, extracellular matrix degradation, and inflammatory signaling pathways. The review critically evaluates the strengths and limitations of widely used murine models, including elastase infusion, calcium chloride application, angiotensin II infusion, and β-aminopropionitrile administration, in the context of current clinical knowledge.

Murine models provide valuable insights into the early stages of disease, which are often inaccessible in humans, and have been instrumental in elucidating key mechanisms involved in aneurysm formation and dissection. These models differ in their anatomic specificity, vascular remodelling dynamics, immune activation profiles, and translational relevance. Emerging complementary approaches, including advanced translational platforms and computational models, further improve the interpretation and translational value of preclinical findings.

By linking experimental findings to clinical perspectives, this review proposes a bench-to-bedside framework for the study of aortic disease. Integrating complementary experimental models with human-relevant systems may improve mechanistic understanding and support future diagnostic and therapeutic strategies innovation in aortic aneurysm and dissection.