Extra-cellular matrix in vascular networks

Bou-Gharios, George
Ponticos, Markella
Rajkumar, Vineeth
Abraham, David

^*Renal Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 ONN
†Centre for Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Royal and University College Medical School, Royal Free Campus, University College, London, NW3 2PF, UK

Correspondence: Dr D. Abraham, Centre for Rheumatology and Connective Tissue Diseases, Department of Medicine, Royal and University College Medical School, University College London, Royal Free Campus, London, NW3 2PF, United Kingdom. Tel.: 0207-794-0432; Fax: 0207-435-0143; E-mail: [email protected]

Received 26 September 2003; revision accepted 26 January 2004

Cell Proliferation 37(3):p 207-220, June 2004.

The vascular network is a series of linked conduits of blood vessels composed of the endothelium, a monolayer of cells that adorn the vessel lumen and surrounding layer(s) of mesenchymal cells (vascular smooth muscle, pericytes and fibroblasts). In addition to providing structural support, the mesenchymal cells are essential for vessel contractility. The extracellular matrix is a major constituent of blood vessels and provides a framework in which these various cell types are attached and embedded. The composition and organization of vascular extracellular matrix is primarily controlled by the mesenchymal cells, and is also responsible for the mechanical properties of the vessel wall, forming complex networks of structural proteins which are highly regulated. The extracellular matrix also plays a central role in cellular adhesion, differentiation and proliferation. This review examines the cellular and extracellular matrix components of vessels, with specific emphasis on the regulation of collagen type I and implications in vascular disease.