Vascular Extracellular Matrix Remodeling and Hypertension

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Biochemistry
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• The vascular extracellular matrix (ECM) is vital for vascular function, homeostasis, and mechanical stability.
• ECM remodeling plays a critical role in the development and progression of hypertension.
• Alterations in ECM components, assembly, and degradation influence vascular cell behavior and pathological processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review dynamic changes in ECM components during hypertension and antihypertensive treatment.
• To discuss how ECM alterations contribute to hypertension pathology.
• To explore ECM remodeling's role in arterial stiffness and hypertension using rodent models.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on ECM remodeling in hypertension.
• Analysis of ECM changes in rodent models of hypertension.
• Discussion of circulating biomarkers and therapeutic strategies targeting ECM.

Main Results:

• ECM remodeling alters vascular wall mechanics and exposes cells to bioactive molecules, contributing to hypertension.
• Changes in ECM amount, assembly, mechanical properties, and degradation fragments are implicated in hypertension.
• Modulation of ECM remodeling affects arterial stiffness and hypertension in genetically modified rodent models.

Conclusions:

• The precise mechanisms by which ECM remodeling initiates hypertension require further investigation.
• Matridomic and degradomic approaches can enhance understanding of ECM remodeling in hypertension.
• Targeting vascular ECM remodeling may offer novel therapeutic strategies for hypertension prevention and treatment.