Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Cardiovascular Pathophysiology

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Cellular Biology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a cellular process where endothelial cells acquire mesenchymal characteristics.
• This transition involves downregulation of endothelial markers (CD31, von Willebrand factor) and upregulation of mesenchymal markers (α-smooth muscle actin, N-cadherin).
• EndMT is implicated in embryonic development and various diseases, including cardiovascular, inflammatory, and fibrotic disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse mechanisms driving EndMT.
• To elucidate the role of EndMT in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.
• To highlight the therapeutic potential of targeting EndMT in disease treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of EndMT mechanisms.
• Analysis of EndMT's role in cardiovascular pathologies.
• Discussion of current limitations and future research directions.

Main Results:

• EndMT is triggered by multiple, context-dependent pathways.
• Aberrant EndMT is a significant factor in atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, valvular disease, and cardiac fibrosis.
• Targeting EndMT presents a promising therapeutic strategy for associated diseases.

Conclusions:

• EndMT is a critical process in both development and disease.
• Further research is needed to fully understand EndMT pathways and develop effective therapeutic interventions.
• Addressing the lack of precise molecular data and robust models is crucial for advancing EndMT-targeted therapies.