Elastic laminae in vascular development and disease

Abstract

The activities of vascular cells, including adhesion, proliferation, and migration, are mediated by extracellular matrix components, including collagen matrix and elastic fibers or laminae. Whereas the collagen matrix stimulates vascular cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration, the elastic laminae inhibit these activities. Coordinated regulation of cell activities by these matrix components is an essential process for controlling the development and remodeling of the vascular system. This article summarizes recent development on the role of arterial elastic laminae in regulating the development of smooth muscle-like cells from bone marrow-derived progenitor cells as well as in mediating cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration with a focus on the molecular mechanisms and physiological significance.