Atherosclerosis and endothelial mechanotransduction: current knowledge and models for future research

Endothelium health is essential to the regulation of physiological vascular functions. Because of the critical capability of endothe-lial cells (ECs) to sense and transduce chemical and mechanical signals in the local vascular environment, their dysfunction is associated with a vast variety of vascular diseases and injuries, especially atherosclerosis and subsequent cardiovascular dis-eases. This review describes the mechanotransduction events that are mediated through ECs, the EC subcellular components involved, and the pathways reported to be potentially involved. Up-to-date research efforts involving in vivo animal models and in vitro biomimetic models are also discussed, including their advantages and drawbacks, with recommendations on future mod-eling approaches to aid the development of novel therapies targeting atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.

Automated summary

Endothelium health is crucial for regulating physiological vascular functions. Dysfunction of endothelial cells (ECs) is associated with various vascular diseases, especially atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. This review discusses mechanotransduction events mediated by ECs, the involved subcellular components, and potential pathways. It also reviews current research efforts using in vivo animal models and in vitro biomimetic models, along with recommendations for future modeling approaches to aid the development of novel therapies targeting atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.