Mechanisms of endothelial flow sensing

Nat Cardiovasc Res. 2023 Jun;2(6):517-529. doi: 10.1038/s44161-023-00276-0. Epub 2023 Jun 12.

Abstract

Fluid shear stress plays a key role in sculpting blood vessels during development, in adult vascular homeostasis and in vascular pathologies. During evolution, endothelial cells evolved several mechanosensors that convert physical forces into biochemical signals, a process termed mechanotransduction. This Review discusses our understanding of endothelial flow sensing and suggests important questions for future investigation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Endothelial Cells* / physiology
  • Endothelium, Vascular / physiology
  • Humans
  • Mechanotransduction, Cellular* / physiology
  • Regional Blood Flow / physiology
  • Stress, Mechanical