Significance of Hemodynamics Biomarkers, Tissue Biomechanics and Numerical Simulations in the Pathogenesis of Ascending Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms

Toward precision medicine in vascular connective tissue disorders

Tremendous progress has been made in understanding the etiology, pathogenesis, and treatment of inherited vascular connective tissue disorders. While new insights regarding disease etiology and pathogenesis have informed patient counseling and care, there are numerous obstacles that need to be overcome in order to achieve the full promise of precision medicine. In this review, these issues will be discussed in the context of Marfan syndrome and Loeys-Dietz syndrome, with additional emphasis on the pioneering contributions made by Victor McKusick.