In vitro studies of erythrocyte-vascular endothelium interactions

Abnormal interactions between red blood cells (RBCs) and vascular endothelial cells (ECs) are crucial factors in causing vascular pathology in several diseases, including vaso-occlusive crises in sickle cell anemia and the development of vascular complications in diabetes mellitus and malaria. A mechanistic understanding of the specific nature of RBC-EC interactions and ensuing functional consequences can provide insights into the pathophysiology of RBC-related vascular disorders and a rational basis for developing novel therapies. This review discusses in vitro experimental models that are commonly used for investigating RBC-EC interactions, and current knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of RBC-EC adhesion and EC functions modulated by RBCs. Because blood flow-induced mechanical forces and convective mass transfer play significant roles in regulating vascular events, it is necessary to develop advanced dynamic experimental models for elucidating RBC-EC interactions under well-controlled, physiologically relevant mechanical environments. (C) 2003 Biomedical Engineering Society.