regulation of vascular endothelial cell proliferation

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that modulates the frequency, rate or extent of vascular endothelial cell proliferation. [GO_REF:0000058, GOC:BHF, GOC:BHF_telomere, GOC:nc, GOC:TermGenie, PMID:23201774]

Regulation of vascular endothelial cell proliferation is a complex process tightly controlled by a delicate balance of stimulatory and inhibitory signals. These signals originate from various sources, including growth factors, cytokines, and mechanical cues. The intricate interplay of these factors ensures proper vessel formation during development, wound healing, and tissue repair. However, dysregulation of this process can lead to pathological conditions like atherosclerosis and cancer.

**Growth Factors:**
* **Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF):** A key player in promoting endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and survival. It binds to specific receptors on endothelial cells, triggering downstream signaling pathways that ultimately drive cell growth.
* **Fibroblast growth factor (FGF):** Another crucial growth factor that stimulates endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis.
* **Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF):** Mainly involved in smooth muscle cell proliferation, but it also contributes to endothelial cell growth in certain contexts.

**Cytokines:**
* **Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α):** This pro-inflammatory cytokine can both promote and inhibit endothelial cell proliferation depending on the context. It can stimulate growth in some situations, while in others, it induces apoptosis (programmed cell death).
* **Interleukin-1 (IL-1):** Similar to TNF-α, IL-1 can have both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on endothelial cell proliferation.

**Mechanical Cues:**
* **Shear stress:** The force exerted by blood flow on endothelial cells can influence their proliferation. Shear stress can both promote and inhibit cell growth, depending on the magnitude and duration of the force.
* **Matrix stiffness:** The rigidity of the extracellular matrix surrounding endothelial cells can influence their behavior. Stiff matrices tend to promote cell proliferation and angiogenesis.

**Intracellular Signaling Pathways:**
* **PI3K/Akt pathway:** A major signaling cascade activated by growth factors like VEGF and FGF. It promotes cell survival, proliferation, and angiogenesis.
* **MAPK pathway:** Activated by a range of stimuli, including growth factors and stress signals. It regulates cell growth, differentiation, and survival.
* **NF-κB pathway:** Involved in inflammatory responses and can influence endothelial cell proliferation and apoptosis.

**Regulation of Proliferation:**
* **Cell cycle checkpoints:** Mechanisms that ensure proper progression through the cell cycle. These checkpoints prevent uncontrolled cell division and contribute to maintaining vascular homeostasis.
* **Apoptosis:** Programmed cell death that eliminates unwanted or damaged cells. It plays a role in regulating vascular remodeling and preventing excessive growth.
* **MicroRNAs:** Small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression. They can influence endothelial cell proliferation and angiogenesis by targeting specific mRNAs.

**Pathological Implications:**
* **Atherosclerosis:** Dysregulation of endothelial cell proliferation can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a disease characterized by plaque formation in blood vessels.
* **Cancer:** Abnormal angiogenesis, driven by uncontrolled endothelial cell proliferation, is a hallmark of cancer. Tumor cells rely on new blood vessel formation to grow and metastasize.

The intricate interplay of these factors governs vascular endothelial cell proliferation, ensuring proper vessel formation and maintenance. However, dysregulation of this process can lead to serious pathological conditions. Understanding these regulatory mechanisms is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies for vascular diseases and cancer.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (11)