Heberlein Katherine R, Straub Adam C, Isakson Brant E
Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics, University of Virginia, Charlottsville, Virginia 22908, USA.
Microcirculation. 2009 May;16(4):307-22. doi: 10.1080/10739680902744404. Epub 2009 Mar 26.
Within the vasculature, specialized cellular extensions from endothelium (and sometimes smooth muscle) protrude through the extracellular matrix where they interact with the opposing cell type. These structures, termed myoendothelial junctions, have been cited as a possible key element in the control of several vascular physiologies and pathologies. This review will discuss observations that have led to a focus on the myoendothelial junction as a cellular integration point in the vasculature for both homeostatic and pathological conditions and as a possible independent signaling entity. We will also highlight the need for novel approaches to studying the myoendothelial junction in order to comprehend the cellular biology associated with this structure.
在脉管系统中,内皮细胞(有时还有平滑肌细胞)的特殊细胞突起穿过细胞外基质,在此处它们与相对的细胞类型相互作用。这些结构被称为肌内皮连接,被认为是控制多种血管生理和病理过程的一个可能关键因素。本综述将讨论一些观察结果,这些结果使人们将重点放在肌内皮连接上,它是脉管系统中稳态和病理状态下的细胞整合点,也是一个可能独立的信号传导实体。我们还将强调需要采用新方法来研究肌内皮连接,以便理解与该结构相关的细胞生物学。