Characterization of pericyte invasive responses and pericyte-induced vascular morphogenesis in 3D matrices : distinctions with vascular smooth muscle cells [abstract]

Abstract

During vascular morphogenic events, mural cells are recruited to developing endothelial tubes to aid in stabilization and maturation of the new vessels. There are two known types of mural cells, pericytes and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). Their different locations within the vasculature (capillaries versus larger vessels, respectively) suggest that there may be distinct vessel recruitment mechanisms or factors, however, these issues remain unresolved. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is known to be released from endothelial cells during morphogenic events and has been shown to influence mural cell functions. In this study, we investigate the ability of PDGF isoforms to regulate pericyte versus VSMC invasive behaviors and recruitment to EC monolayers or developing vascular tubes.