RhoA Determines Lineage Fate of MSCs by Modulating CTGF-VEGF Complex in Extracellular Matrix

ABSTRACT: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) participate in the repair/remodeling of many tissues, where MSCs commit to different lineages dependent on the cues in the local microenvironment. Here we show that TGFβ-activated RhoA/ROCK functions as a molecular switch regarding the fate of MSCs in arterial repair/remodeling after injury. MSCs differentiate into myofibroblasts when RhoA/ROCK is turned on, endothelial cells when turned off. The former is pathophysiologic resulting in intimal hyperplasia, whereas the latter is physiological leading to endothelial repair. Further analysis revealed that MSC RhoA activation promotes formation of an extracellular matrix (ECM) complex consisting of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Inactivation of RhoA/ROCK in

ORGANISM(S): Mus musculus

SUBMITTER: Charles Farber 

PROVIDER: E-GEOD-73557 | biostudies-arrayexpress |

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-arrayexpress