Runx2 deletion in smooth muscle cells inhibits vascular osteochondrogenesis and calcification but not atherosclerotic lesion formation

Conclusions
SMC autonomous Runx2 is required for SMC differentiation towards osteoblast-like cells, SMC-derived chondrocyte maturation and AIC in atherosclerotic mice. These effects were independent of systemic lipid metabolism, RANKL expression, macrophage infiltration, and atheromatous lesion progression.

Source: Cardiovascular Research - October 20, 2016 Category: Cardiology Authors: Lin, M.-E., Chen, T. M., Wallingford, M. C., Nguyen, N. B., Yamada, S., Sawangmake, C., Zhang, J., Speer, M. Y., Giachelli, C. M. Tags: Vascular biology Source Type: research