The endothelial cytoskeleton: Multifunctional role of the endothelial actomyosin cytoskeleton

Yuka Shimizu, Joe G.N. Garcia

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

Abstract

The mammalian cytoskeleton plays an essential role in providing the mechanical support necessary to maintain cell shape, cell motility and movement and in signaling transducing functions. The key cytoskeletal components are three inter-communicating networking protein filaments: actin microfilaments, microtubules, and intermediate filaments. Endothelial cells comprise the lining of the inner vessel wall and display a highly dynamic regulation of vascular integrity via opening and closing of paracellular gaps in response to infiltrating cells, ischemia or inflammatory processes (Dudek and Garcia 2001). As endothelial cells have direct contact with circulating blood cells and lymphatic fluid, the cytoskeleton plays a critical role in mechanotransduction, angiogenesis and apoptosis and in the vascular response to inflammation, serving as the major regulator of the endothelial “gate-keeper” function via effects on paracellular gap regulation, leukocyte diapedesis and barrier regulation (Dudek and Garcia 2001, Garcia et al. 1986, Hirata et al. 1995, Majno and Palade 1961).

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationEndothelial Cytoskeleton
PublisherCRC Press
Pages1-26
Number of pages26
ISBN (Electronic)9781466590366
ISBN (Print)9781466590359
StatePublished - Jan 1 2013
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine
  • General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

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