Translocating transcription factors in fluid shear stress-mediated vascular remodeling and disease

Exp Cell Res. 2019 Mar 1;376(1):92-97. doi: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2019.01.005. Epub 2019 Jan 8.

Abstract

Endothelial cells are exposed to fluid shear stress profiles that vary in magnitude, pulsatility, and directionality due to regional variations in blood vessel structure. Laminar flow at physiological levels is atheroprotective; multidirectional or reversing low (disturbed) flow promotes inflammation and disease; and high or low laminar flow promote outward or inward remodeling, respectively. However, our understanding of how endothelial cells discern these different flow profiles and regulate gene expression accordingly is limited. This article reviews recent studies that identify the TGFβ/Smad, Notch, Yap/Taz, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways as important mediators of flow profile- and magnitude-dependent signaling.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases / genetics*
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / pathology
  • Endothelial Cells / metabolism
  • Endothelial Cells / pathology
  • Endothelium, Vascular / metabolism
  • Endothelium, Vascular / pathology
  • Gene Expression Regulation / genetics
  • Humans
  • Stress, Mechanical*
  • Transcription Factors / genetics*
  • Vascular Remodeling / genetics*

Substances

  • Transcription Factors