Protecting Women's Arteries: Understanding How Menopause Increases Risk of Deadly Aortic Aneurysms

Doctor Renjing Liu, University of New South Wales

Future Leader Fellowship

Years funded: 2026 - 2029

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) cause one in three deaths among women worldwide each year. Yet, most preclinical studies rely on male models, overlooking and under-appreciating critical biological differences between men and women. One of the most significant risk factors for CVD in women is menopause. Female mice do not naturally undergo menopause, and conventional models relying on ovariectomy fail to replicate the gradual hormonal transition observed in humans. To address this gap, my lab has now employed a chemical ablation approach that accurately mimics the menopausal transition in female mice by inducing gradual disruptions in ovarian function. This model provides an essential tool for studying menopause-related vascular changes.

My lab specialises in aortic aneurysm research. Aortic aneurysms are common and life-threatening conditions characterised by pathological dilation of the aorta. They are significant causes of premature death from sudden aortic rupture due to their asymptomatic nature. No effective drugs exist to prevent or delay aneurysm development. While aortic aneurysms predominately affect men, yet, women who develop aneurysms, particularly during the menopausal years, suffer from poorer outcomes – their aneurysms grow faster, rupture at smaller sizes, and result in higher death rates. The underlying biology leading to these clinical observations are unknown.

Leveraging on my expertise in aneurysm research and now utilising this newly established menopause model, my lab has now generated the world’s first menopausal aortic aneurysm study. Data from these mice closely mirrors clinical observations; peri- and postmenopausal mice exhibit increased aortic aneurysms incidences, and heightened susceptibility to rupture and sudden death, despite having smaller aneurysms compared to males.

The goal of my research is to uncover biological mechanisms that can protect the aorta from aneurysm formation and rupture. This could lead to: 1. Better methods to identify individuals at high risk of aneurysm rupture, allowing for earlier and more accurate diagnosis. 2. New or repurposed medications to stop aneurysms from developing and progressing.

Translation/Dissemination: This research has the potential to save lives by improving diagnosis and treatment for aortic aneurysms, particularly in women. Our strong collaborations with cardiologists, geneticists, and heart surgeons will ensure that our findings quickly translate into clinical practice, shaping healthcare advice, consultations, and treatment strategies.