coronary vasculature development

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process whose specific outcome is the progression of the blood vessels of the heart over time, from its formation to the mature structure. [GOC:mtg_heart]

Coronary vasculature development is a complex and intricate process that begins during early embryonic development and continues throughout life. It involves the formation, growth, and maturation of the coronary arteries and veins, which supply blood to the heart muscle.

**Early Stages:**

* **Formation of the coronary arteries:** The coronary arteries arise from the aortic sac, a specialized structure that forms during embryonic development. The aortic sac gives rise to the ascending aorta, the coronary arteries, and the brachiocephalic artery.
* **Angiogenesis:** The process of coronary artery formation involves angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. This occurs through a series of steps, including:
* **Vasculogenesis:** The formation of new blood vessels from endothelial precursor cells called angioblasts.
* **Sprouting angiogenesis:** The growth of new blood vessels from existing vessels through the formation of sprouts.
* **Intussusceptive angiogenesis:** The formation of new blood vessels by splitting pre-existing ones.
* **Formation of the coronary veins:** The coronary veins develop from the sinus venosus, a structure that connects the heart to the venous system.

**Later Stages:**

* **Growth and Remodeling:** As the heart grows and develops, the coronary arteries and veins also grow and remodel. This involves:
* **Increased branching:** The coronary vessels branch extensively to supply blood to all areas of the heart muscle.
* **Increased diameter:** The coronary vessels increase in diameter to accommodate the increasing blood flow required by the growing heart.
* **Maturation of the vessel wall:** The vessel wall thickens and strengthens to withstand the high pressures of blood flow.
* **Regulation of Blood Flow:** The coronary arteries are regulated by a complex interplay of factors, including:
* **Nerve signals:** The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems influence coronary blood flow.
* **Hormonal signals:** Hormones such as adrenaline and norepinephrine can increase coronary blood flow.
* **Local factors:** Factors such as oxygen levels, carbon dioxide levels, and metabolites can influence coronary blood flow.
* **Aging and Disease:** Coronary vasculature undergoes changes with age, making it more susceptible to disease. These changes include:
* **Reduced elasticity:** The coronary arteries become less elastic, making them less able to accommodate changes in blood flow.
* **Increased stiffness:** The coronary arteries become stiffer, which can increase the risk of coronary artery disease.
* **Accumulation of plaques:** Fatty deposits (plaques) can build up in the coronary arteries, narrowing the blood vessels and increasing the risk of heart attack.

**Clinical Relevance:**

* **Coronary Artery Disease (CAD):** The most common cardiovascular disease, caused by plaque buildup in the coronary arteries, leading to restricted blood flow to the heart.
* **Congenital Heart Defects:** Abnormal development of the coronary vasculature can result in various heart defects.
* **Heart Transplantation:** Understanding coronary vasculature development is crucial for successful heart transplantation, ensuring adequate blood supply to the transplanted heart.

The development of the coronary vasculature is a continuous process that is essential for maintaining heart health throughout life. Disruptions in this process can lead to various cardiovascular diseases.'
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