In vitro studies of erythrocyte-vascular endothelium interactions.
Abnormal interactions between red blood cells (RBCs) and vascular endothelial cells (ECs) are crucial factors in causing vascular pathology in several diseases, including vaso-occlusive crises in sickle cell anemia and the development of vascular complications in diabetes mellitus and malaria. A mechanistic understanding of the specific nature of RBC-EC interactions and ensuing functional consequences can provide insights into the pathophysiology of RBC-related vascular disorders and a rational basis for developing novel therapies. This review discusses in vitro experimental models that are commonly used for investigating RBC-EC interactions, and current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of RBC-EC adhesion and EC functions modulated by RBCs. Because blood flow-induced mechanical forces and convective mass transfer play significant roles in regulating vascular events, it is necessary to develop advanced dynamic experimental models for elucidating RBC-EC interactions under well-controlled, physiologically relevant mechanical environments.
Shiu
Yan-Ting
YT
Department of Bioengineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.
McIntire
Larry V
LV
D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell / Q000097:blood; D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000097:blood; D042783:Endothelial Cells / Q000473:pathology / Q000502:physiology*; D004912:Erythrocytes / Q000473:pathology / Q000502:physiology*; D005340:Fibrinogen / Q000502:physiology; D005353:Fibronectins / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D016778:Malaria, Falciparum / Q000097:blood; D008954:Models, Biological; D051381:Rats; D019699:Thrombospondins / Q000502:physiology
D005353:Fibronectins; D019699:Thrombospondins; D005340:Fibrinogen