Functional Modeling of Pressure Induced Gene Expression Reveals Mechanosensitive Signaling Pathways

Multiple molecular and cellular mechanisms are associated with the initiation and progression of aortic valve disease. Alterations in ECM remodeling, increased expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, calcification, lipid deposition and changes in valve cell phenotype have demonstrated roles in development of aortic valve disease. Mechanical stimulation has a significant role in determining the physiological properties of valve tissue and an altered hemodynamic environment may result in pathological changes.

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