VGLL4 promotes thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection by disrupting extracellular matrix homeostasis via WISP1-mediated TIMP3/MMP9 imbalance
Lu Ding, Jianshe Ma, Pinmeng Diao, Runze Dong, Yutao Tong, Jinbiao Lai, Yuyue Shao, Minjie Hu, Jiwen Yang, Peifeng Jin, Xiaofang Fan, Yongsheng Gong, Congkuo Du, Xuejiao Chen, Xiufang Chen, , Yongyu Wang
This study identifies VGLL4 as a mechanosensitive regulator of TAAD by disrupting ECM homeostasis through the WISP1-TIMP3/MMP9 axis.
bioRxiv · Aug 30, 2026 · PreprintPathology