central nervous system vasculogenesis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The differentiation of endothelial cells from progenitor cells during blood vessel development, and the de novo formation of blood vessels and tubes in the central nervous system. The capillary endothelial cells in the brain are specialized to form the blood-brain barrier. [GO_REF:0000021, GOC:cls, GOC:dgh, GOC:dph, GOC:jid]

Central nervous system (CNS) vasculogenesis is the initial formation of blood vessels within the developing brain and spinal cord. It is a complex and precisely regulated process essential for supplying oxygen and nutrients to the rapidly growing neural tissue. Here's a detailed breakdown:

**1. Early Stages:**

* **Specification of Angioblasts:** CNS vasculogenesis begins with the specification of angioblasts, which are precursor cells that will differentiate into endothelial cells, the lining of blood vessels. These angioblasts originate from various sources, including the mesoderm and neural crest cells.
* **Migration and Aggregation:** Angioblasts migrate to the developing CNS, guided by chemoattractant and chemo repellent signals. They then aggregate at specific locations, forming clusters known as angiogenic cords.

**2. Tube Formation:**

* **Differentiation:** Within these angiogenic cords, angioblasts undergo differentiation into endothelial cells, acquiring the characteristic features of blood vessel lining cells.
* **Tube Formation:** Endothelial cells then assemble into a hollow tube, forming the initial lumen of the blood vessel. This process involves cell-cell adhesion, tight junctions, and the secretion of extracellular matrix components.

**3. Vascular Network Development:**

* **Sprouting Angiogenesis:** Once the initial vascular tubes are formed, they undergo sprouting angiogenesis to extend and branch out, forming a complex network. This involves the formation of new blood vessels from existing ones, driven by factors like VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor).
* **Fusion and Remodeling:** The newly formed blood vessels fuse with each other and undergo remodeling to ensure proper connectivity and blood flow throughout the CNS.

**4. Maturation:**

* **Recruitement of Pericytes and Smooth Muscle Cells:** As blood vessels mature, they recruit pericytes and smooth muscle cells. These cells help stabilize the vessel wall, regulate blood flow, and provide structural support.
* **Formation of the Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB):** The BBB is a specialized structure formed by endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes, creating a tight barrier that protects the CNS from harmful substances in the bloodstream.

**5. Regulation:**

* **Molecular Signaling:** CNS vasculogenesis is tightly regulated by complex molecular signaling pathways involving growth factors (VEGF, FGF, PDGF), signaling molecules (Wnt, Notch), and transcription factors. These pathways interact to control angioblast specification, migration, differentiation, and tube formation.
* **Environmental Factors:** Oxygen gradients, mechanical forces, and interactions with surrounding tissues also influence the process.

**6. Importance:**

* **Nutrient and Oxygen Supply:** CNS vasculogenesis is critical for providing oxygen and essential nutrients to the rapidly growing brain and spinal cord. Without adequate vascularization, neural development would be severely compromised.
* **Waste Removal:** Blood vessels also play a vital role in removing metabolic waste products from the CNS.
* **Immune System Function:** The CNS vasculature plays a crucial role in immune cell trafficking and inflammation response within the brain.

**7. Disruptions:**

* **Developmental Defects:** Disruptions in CNS vasculogenesis can lead to various developmental defects, including microcephaly, hydrocephalus, and brain malformations.
* **Stroke and Neurological Disorders:** Impaired vascular function in the CNS can contribute to stroke, dementia, and other neurodegenerative disorders.

This detailed description provides a comprehensive overview of CNS vasculogenesis, highlighting its significance in brain development, function, and health.'
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