The critical role of signal transducers and activators of transcription-3 in the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells

Abstract

The proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) is a key pathogenic characteristic of vascular remodeling diseases. The signal transducers and activators of transcription-3 (STAT3) signaling pathway is crucial for VSMCs growth, and its role in cytokine-induced VSMCs proliferation, calcification, and phenotypic switching is essential for developing new treatment targets. VSMCs can transform from contractile to synthetic phenotypes in response to stimuli, such as mechanical forces, growth factors, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and vascular injury. Understanding the mechanism of VSMCs proliferation triggered by the STAT3 pathway is important for identifying potential therapeutic targets for vascular remodeling diseases.