The Role of Cells in Vascular Network Formation and Angiogenesis Induction Publisher



Kargozar S¹ ; Nazarnezhad S^{1, 3} ; Verdi J² Show Affiliations
Source: Biomaterials for Vasculogenesis and Angiogenesis Published:2022

Abstract

The creation of the vascular network in humans is a dynamic process in which specific cell types are involved in chronological order. Endothelial cells (ECs) are recognized as the main participant in advancing both vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. In vasculogenesis, the de novo differentiation of hemangioblasts and precursor cells (angioblasts) toward ECs, followed by their connection to each other and triggering the development of primitive endothelial tubes and formation of the primary vascular network. The coordinated behavior of ECs is known as a central phenomenon required for the angiogenesis process, that is, the formation and expansion of neovessels from pre-existing blood vessels. In addition to ECs, pericytes, and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) are other important cells that play substantial roles in the formation, maturation, and specification of blood vessels. As a matter of fact, the sophisticated crosstalk between cells involved in the neovascularization process may significantly affect cell recruitment, differentiation, maturation, and vessel stability. The cells of the immune system (e.g., macrophages) are currently being acknowledged as key regulators of the formation, and the remodeling of blood vessels, especially after implanting tissue-engineered (TE) constructs in damaged regions. In the concept of tissue engineering, stem/progenitor cells with different origins have been utilized to promote neovessel formation and subsequently accelerated wound healing. © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.