Abstract
ABSTRACTThe circulatory system consists of the heart, blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, which function in parallel to provide nutrients and remove waste from the body. Vascular function depends on valves, which regulate unidirectional fluid flow against gravitational and pressure gradients. Severe valve disorders can cause mortality and some are associated with severe morbidity. Although cardiac valve defects can be treated by valve replacement surgery, no treatment is currently available for valve disorders of the veins and lymphatics. Thus, a better understanding of valves, their development and the progression of valve disease is warranted. In the past decade, molecules that are important for vascular function in humans have been identified, with mouse studies also providing new insights into valve formation and function. Intriguing similarities have recently emerged between the different types of valves concerning their molecular identity, architecture and development. Shear stress generated by fluid flow has also been shown to regulate endothelial cell identity in valves. Here, we review our current understanding of valve development with an emphasis on its mechanobiology and significance to human health, and highlight unanswered questions and translational opportunities.
Highlights
The survival of multicellular organisms depends on the ability of their cells to receive nutrients and to dispose of waste
Mammalian valves: an overview we provide an overview of the main types of mammalian valves and the diseases that are caused by defects in these structures
Primary chronic venous insufficiency causes increased blood pooling within the veins, which results in hypoxia, clotting and endothelial cell inflammation, otherwise known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Summary
The survival of multicellular organisms depends on the ability of their cells to receive nutrients and to dispose of waste. Four main types of valve form to regulate the unidirectional flow of fluid in different organs – cardiac valves (in the heart), venous valves (VVs; in veins), lymphatic valves (LVs; in the lymphatic vessels) and lymphovenous valves (LVVs; at the sites where lymph is returned to blood circulation) (see below). Primary chronic venous insufficiency causes increased blood pooling within the veins, which results in hypoxia, clotting and endothelial cell inflammation, otherwise known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Defective valves cause lymph to stagnate in the collecting vessels; the increased pressure is transmitted upstream to the capillaries, inhibiting lymph uptake and exacerbating lymphatic vascular defects, such as lymphedema and chylothorax (Davis et al, 2012). Notch signaling is thought to antagonize the differentiation of aortic valve cells into bone-like cells (Acharya et al, 2011)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
