Molecular mechanisms of endothelial–mesenchymal transition and its pathophysiological feature in cerebrovascular disease
Huimin Jiang, Yifan Zhou, Weiyue Zhang, Hui Li, Wei Ma, Xunming Ji, Chen Zhou
Abstract
The phenomenon of endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), a distinct subtype of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), has garnered significant attention from scholars. EndMT refers to the process whereby endothelial cells (ECs) transform into mesenchymal cells in response to various stimuli, resulting in the loss of their original characteristics. This process has diverse implications in both physiological and pathological states. Under physiological conditions, EndMT plays a crucial role in the development of the cardiovascular system. Conversely, under pathological conditions, EndMT has been identified as a pivotal factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases. Nonetheless, a comprehensive overview of EndMT in cerebrovascular disease is currently lacking. Here, we discuss the heterogeneity of EndMT occurrence and the regulatory factors involved in its development and analyze the feasibility of EndMT as a therapeutic target, aiming to provide a solid theoretical foundation and evidence to address diseases caused by pathological EndMT.