Dkk1 and Msx2–Wnt7b Signaling Reciprocally Regulate the Endothelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Aortic Endothelial Cells

Abstract

Dkk1 enhances endothelial-mesenchymal transition in aortic ECs, whereas Wnt7b and Msx2 signals preserve EC phenotype. EC responses to Dkk1, Wnt7b, and Msx2 are the opposite of mesenchymal responses, coupling EC phenotypic stability with osteofibrogenic predilection during arteriosclerosis.