Activin-like kinase receptor 1 (ALK1) in atherosclerotic lesions and vascular mesenchymal cells

Abstract

We conclude that there is a balance between the actions of BMP-2 and MGP in the initiation of vascular mesenchymal cell condensation and SMC differentiation, and that targeting ALK1, BMP2 and/or MGP may lead to novel concepts of atherosclerosis treatment.