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In vitro experiments using
microfabricated microfluidic devices have revealed a threshold of shear stress from
fluid flow above which endothelial cell monolayers sprout new blood
vessels. The shear stress also sustained
the sprout and prevented vessel retraction.
Further experiments revealed that matrix metalloproteinase 1 expression
increased dramatically at the shear threshold. These findings offer a basic mechanism for
regulating vessel densities in tissue modulated by other mechanical,
geometric,and biochemical factors.
Fluid
shear stress threshold regulates angiogenic sprouting; P.A.Galie et al; PNAS; doi:10.1073/pnas.1310842111
