Integrin Signaling Pathways in Aortic Aneurysm and Dissection.

Aortic aneurysm (AA) and aortic dissection (AD) are life-threatening aortic diseases that primarily arise from medial degeneration. Ruptures are invariably associated with fatal outcomes; however, there are currently no clinically proven medications to prevent the progression of aortic aneurysm and dissection (AAD), and surgery remains the most effective approach to eliminating the high risk of aortic rupture. The dysfunction and depletion of vascular smooth muscle cells, along with inflammation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling, are key mechanisms underlying AAD development. Integrins are heterodimeric transmembrane receptors that link the ECM to the cytoskeleton and transmit bidirectional cellular signals. Moreover, integrins maintain cell morphology and modulate numerous physiological and pathophysiological processes. Meanwhile, increasing evidence indicates that integrins play a vital role in AAD. This review outlines the basic biology of integrins, discusses the specific functions and mechanisms of integrins in AAD pathogenesis, and aims to identify reliable non-invasive biomarkers for acute AAD and potential targets to halt disease progression.