Endothelial to mesenchymal transition: A novel therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases

Endothelial to mesenchymal transition (EndMT) is a complex biological process in which endothelial cells lose their specific markers and acquire a mesenchymal or myofibroblastic phenotype. Similar to epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), EndMT can be induced by multiple stimulants such as cytokines and metabolic factors that play crucial roles in the development of the cardiovascular system. Recent studies have demonstrated that EndMT may play a significant role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and may represent a novel therapeutic target for cardiovascular remodeling and fibrotic disorders.
Source: Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research