Fundamentals of bone vasculature: Specialization, interactions and functions

Semin Cell Dev Biol. 2022 Mar:123:36-47. doi: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2021.06.025. Epub 2021 Jul 17.

Abstract

Angiogenesis, hematopoiesis and osteogenesis are fundamental processes mediating complex and essential biological functions. In the bone marrow, endothelial cells (ECs) are a principal mediator of regulatory signals that govern hematopoietic and mesenchymal stem cells. EC and osteoblast interactions and niche functions of ECs are fundamental in maintaining bone health and coordinating repair and regeneration following injury. These cellular interactions are subject to dysregulation and deterioration under stress, aging, chronic disease states and malignancy. Thus, the prospect of manipulating the bone vasculature has tremendous potential to advance therapeutic interventions for the management of bone diseases. This review discusses the current state of vascular-skeletal tissue interactions focusing on osteoblast and hematopoietic stem cells interaction with ECs.

Keywords: Bone; Endothelial cell; Hematopoietic stem cell; Osteoblast; Vasculature.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bone Marrow
  • Bone Marrow Cells
  • Endothelial Cells* / physiology
  • Hematopoiesis
  • Hematopoietic Stem Cells
  • Stem Cell Niche*