We reported previously that the LRP1 (low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1) maintains vessel wall integrity, and smLRP1<sup>-/-</sup> mice exhibited aortic dilatation.
Our findings are consistent with literature data of Lrp1 knock-out mice developing atherosclerotic lesions and aortic dilatation, and association of the T allele with reduced LRP1 gene expression in humans.