title: Extra-cellular matrix in vascular networks.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Renal Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 ONN, UK.
authors.forename: George
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Bou-Gharios
authors.forename: Markella
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Ponticos
authors.forename: Vineeth
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Rajkumar
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Abraham
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001808:Blood Vessels / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D024042:Collagen Type I / Q000378:metabolism; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000378:metabolism*; D016326:Extracellular Matrix Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D008648:Mesoderm / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D032389:Myocytes, Smooth Muscle / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism; D020286:Pericytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism; D014652:Vascular Diseases / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: D024042:Collagen Type I; D016326:Extracellular Matrix Proteins