Post-stroke endothelial cell plasticity: A transformational lineage from complete to partial EndoMT.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Pathology

Background:

• Internationalization of vascular endothelial cells contributes to ischemic stroke progression.
• Endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) is implicated in stroke pathophysiology.
• The blood-brain barrier's integrity is influenced by EndoMT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the intermediate states of EndoMT in ischemic stroke.
• To detail key signaling pathways regulating EndoMT.
• To explore the role of EndoMT in blood-brain barrier function during stroke.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on EndoMT and ischemic stroke.
• Analysis of single-cell sequencing data for cellular heterogeneity.
• Examination of pathophysiological processes including TGF-β signaling, transcription factors, and energy metabolism.

Main Results:

• EndoMT exhibits intermediate states, some of which are reversible (MEndT).
• Single-cell sequencing reveals cellular heterogeneity and multiple intermediate phenotypes in EndoMT.
• TGF-β signaling, transcription factors, and energy metabolism are key contributors to EndoMT.

Conclusions:

• Intermediate EndoMT states represent a critical target for preventing ischemic stroke progression.
• Understanding EndoMT heterogeneity provides a basis for novel therapeutic strategies.
• Targeting EndoMT may be crucial for maintaining blood-brain barrier function in stroke.