System Genetics Analysis Reveals Sex Differences in Human Aortic Smooth Muscle Gene Expression.

Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. The buildup of atherosclerotic plaque, including lipids and cellular waste, characterizes this disease. Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) can migrate and proliferate to form a fibrous cap that stabilizes the atherosclerotic plaque in response to plaque buildup.