Brain pericytes: emerging concepts and functional roles in brain homeostasis.
Brain pericytes are an important constituent of neurovascular unit. They encircle endothelial cells and contribute to the maturation and stabilization of the capillaries in the brain. Recent studies have revealed that brain pericytes play pivotal roles in a variety of brain functions, such as regulation of capillary flow, angiogenesis, blood brain barrier, immune responses, and hemostasis. In addition, brain pericytes are pluripotent and can differentiate into different lineages similar to mesenchymal stem cells. The brain pericytes are revisited as a key player to maintain brain function and repair brain damage.
Department of Medicine and Clinical Science, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan. kamouchi@intmed2.med.kyushu-u.ac.jp
Masahiro
M
Kamouchi
Tetsuro
T
Ago
Takanari
T
Kitazono
D000818:Animals; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000378:metabolism; D001812:Blood-Brain Barrier / Q000378:metabolism; D001921:Brain / Q000098:blood supply* / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism; D048430:Cell Shape; D006706:Homeostasis; D006801:Humans; D020286:Pericytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*
D015415:Biomarkers