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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
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In Vitro Model of Fetal Human Vessel On-chip to Study Developmental Mechanobiology
Published on: July 28, 2023
What determines blood vessel structure? Genetic prespecification vs. hemodynamics.
Elizabeth A V Jones1, Ferdinand le Noble, Anne Eichmann
11INSERM U36, Paris, France. liz.jones@college-de-france.fr
Physiology (Bethesda, Md.)
|November 23, 2006
Summary
Blood flow significantly shapes the developing cardiovascular system by influencing vessel identity and network remodeling. Mechanical forces from blood flow dynamically regulate vascular plasticity and gene expression in embryos.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- Vascular network remodeling, angiogenesis, and arteriogenesis are critical in ischemic cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
- Embryonic vascular development involves arterial/venous identity specification and network patterning.
- Genetic factors, including neural guidance genes, initially determine vessel identity and positioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of blood flow in regulating vessel identity and network remodeling during later embryogenesis.
- To understand the interplay between genetically determined processes and blood flow in shaping vascular architecture.
- To highlight the impact of mechanical forces from blood flow on cardiovascular system development.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of vascular network development in embryonic models.
- Investigation of gene expression patterns in response to blood flow.
- Assessment of vessel plasticity and remodeling dynamics.
Main Results:
- Blood flow critically regulates vessel identity and network remodeling in later embryonic stages.
- The flow-evoked remodeling process is dynamic and exhibits significant vessel plasticity.
- Mechanical forces generated by blood flow are biologically active, influencing gene expression.
Conclusions:
- Blood flow, alongside genetic programming, is pivotal in establishing a functional cardiovascular system.
- Mechanical forces exerted by blood flow play a crucial role in shaping vascular architecture and identity.
- Understanding this balance is key to addressing cardiovascular diseases and cancer pathophysiology.
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