Background Thoracic aortic aneurysm ( TAA ) and dissection ( TAD ) are characterized by progressive disorganization of the aortic wall matrix, including elastin, a highly immunogenic molecule.
Structure of the Elastin-Contractile Units in the Thoracic Aorta and How Genes That Cause Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections Disrupt This Structure.