Exploring molecular profiles of osteogenically differentiated aortic valvular interstitial cells

Aortic valve calcifications are often associated with calcium deposition and tissue mineralization, resulting in stiffness and dysfunction. To better understand the diversity of molecular and cellular processes for calcification in valve structures, we isolated human aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs) and exposed them to calcification stimulation. RNA-seq revealed that in response to calcified stimuli, AVIC activates a robust ossification program, although the signaling pathways, cellular processes, and osteogenesis-related markers involved are diverse. In conclusion, this study provides a wealth of information suggesting that the pathogenesis of aortic valve calcification may be much more than previously understood. Overall design: Human aortic valve interstitial cells (AVICs) were cultured with growth medium or osteogenic differentiation medium for 6 days.