Transdifferentiation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells to Macrophage-Like Cells During Atherogenesis

Abstract

This study provides strong in vivo evidence for smooth muscle-to-macrophage transdifferentiation and supports an important role of SMC plasticity in atherogenesis. Targeting this type of SMC phenotypic conversion might be a novel strategy for the treatment of atherosclerosis, as well as other diseases with a smooth muscle component.