Control of angiogenesis by the pericyte: molecular mechanisms and significance

KK Hirschi, PA D'amore - Regulation of angiogenesis, 1997 - Springer
KK Hirschi, PA D'amore
Regulation of angiogenesis, 1997Springer
The microvasculature consists of endothelial cells (EC) with albuminally located pericytes. A
number of clinical and experimental observations suggest that pericytes contribute to the
regulation of microvascular growth and function. EC and pericytes appear to have a variety
of means whereby they may influence one another, including soluble growth factors, gap
junctions and adhesion molecules, to name a few. Co-culture systems have provided a good
deal of evidence to support the concept that these two cells interact and that these …
Summary
The microvasculature consists of endothelial cells (EC) with albuminally located pericytes. A number of clinical and experimental observations suggest that pericytes contribute to the regulation of microvascular growth and function. EC and pericytes appear to have a variety of means whereby they may influence one another, including soluble growth factors, gap junctions and adhesion molecules, to name a few. Co-culture systems have provided a good deal of evidence to support the concept that these two cells interact and that these communications are central to vessel assembly, growth control and normal function.
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