Fluid shear stress increases the release of platelet derived growth factor BB (PDGF BB) by aortic endothelial cells.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between shear stress and the release of Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF BB) by aortic endothelial cells.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Laboratory in vitro study.

MATERIALS

Bovine aortic endothelial cells were seeded in fibronectin-coated cylinders at 1.0 x 10(6) cells/tube and allowed to reach confluence and to adhere for 48 hours. The experimental groups were subjected to nonpulsatile, laminar flow of 50, 100, 150 ml/min in polystyrene cylinders (i.d. 10 mm) of a closed circulatory loop giving a shear stress on the endothelial cells of 3, 6, 9 dyn/cm2. The control group was subjected to similar incubation conditions without flow.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The release of PDGF BB by endothelial cells was measured by ELISA and Western Blot Analysis.

RESULTS

Shear stress increased significantly (p < 0.01) the release of PDGF BB by endothelial cells.

CONCLUSIONS

PDGF BB release by endothelial cells may be one of the mechanisms linking hemodynamic forces and adaptation of blood vessels wall.