Bioengineering contributions in vascular biology at the cellular and molecular level

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Vascular Biology
• Physiology

Background:

• Bioengineers and vascular biologists have collaborated for two decades.
• Significant progress in understanding cellular and molecular mechanisms of vascular biology (normal and diseased).
• Recognition of fluid mechanics and mass transfer's integral role in modulating vascular cell function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the integration of bioengineering principles with vascular biology.
• To emphasize the role of physical forces (fluid mechanics, mass transfer) in vascular health and disease.
• To underscore the potential for developing patient-specific therapeutics.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of cell and molecular biology data.
• Application of systems analysis.
• Incorporation of mass transport phenomena and quantitative modeling.

Main Results:

• Fluid mechanics and mass transfer are key modulators of blood and vascular cell function.
• Examples include flow-regulated leukocyte adhesion and shear stress/strain-modulated gene expression in endothelial and smooth muscle cells.
• Demonstrated integration of physical and biological sciences.

Conclusions:

• Continued interdisciplinary synthesis will drive the development of patient-specific therapeutics.
• Potential applications span inflammation, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, sickle cell disease, and cancer metastasis.
• Highlights the power of quantitative modeling and systems analysis in vascular biology.