Characterization methods of mechanobiology in novel microfluidic endothelial models.

Abstract

The vascular system comprises a vast network of arteries, veins and microvessels lined with endothelial cells (ECs), which help maintain vascular homeostasis. While we understand that the ECs that arise from these tissues have distinct phenotypes and functions, we do not fully understand the role of their microenvironment, specifically how they interpret mechanical stimuli, such as hemodynamic flow, shear stress, stretching and stiffness. By employing microfluidic endothelial models, we attempt