cardiac vascular smooth muscle cell development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of a cardiac vascular smooth muscle cell over time, from its formation to the mature state. [GOC:mtg_heart]

Cardiac vascular smooth muscle cell (CVSMC) development is a complex and tightly regulated process that involves a series of precisely orchestrated events. It begins with the commitment of mesenchymal progenitor cells to a smooth muscle lineage, a process influenced by various signaling molecules like platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). These signals activate transcription factors like SRF and myocardin, leading to the expression of smooth muscle-specific genes, including those encoding contractile proteins like α-actin and myosin.

The committed progenitors then undergo proliferation, contributing to the expansion of the smooth muscle cell population. This proliferative phase is regulated by factors like fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

As the CVSMCs mature, they undergo differentiation, acquiring the characteristic features of mature smooth muscle cells. This includes the expression of contractile proteins, the formation of dense bodies and focal adhesions, and the development of a specialized cytoskeleton.

Throughout development, the CVSMCs interact with other cell types, like endothelial cells and pericytes, forming a functional vascular wall. These interactions are crucial for maintaining vascular integrity and regulating blood flow.

The final step in CVSMC development involves the establishment of a quiescent state, where the cells are fully mature and maintain vascular homeostasis. However, in response to injury or disease, these cells can reactivate and contribute to vascular remodeling and pathological processes like atherosclerosis and hypertension.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (6)