Chapter 14 - Role of endothelial cells in normal tissue radiation injury

Abstract

The use of ionizing radiation in cancer therapy is effective in inducing cancer cell kill and reducing tumor growth. However, exposure of normal (noncancerous) tissues to radiation during therapy can lead to side effects. In addition, accidental exposure to ionizing radiation can cause short- and long-term normal tissue injuries. Radiation-induced changes in the endothelium and the vasculature have long been thought to play a central role in the process of radiation-induced adverse remodeling and function loss of normal tissues. This chapter describes current knowledge on how radiation alters endothelial cell phenotype and function, insights into biological mechanisms by which radiation-induced changes in endothelial cells contribute to normal tissue radiation injury, and studies that make use of this insight into design new intervention strategies that may reduce normal tissue radiation injury. Lastly, a brief discussion addresses suggested future directions for this field of research.