How calcium signals in myocytes and pericytes are integrated across in situ microvascular networks and control microvascular tone.

ABSTRACT: The microcirculation is the site of gas and nutrient exchange. Control of central or local signals acting on the myocytes, pericytes and endothelial cells within it, is essential for health. Due to technical problems of accessibility, the mechanisms controlling Ca2+ signalling and contractility of myocytes and pericytes in different sections of microvascular networks in situ have not been investigated. We aimed to investigate Ca2+ signalling and functional responses, in a microcirculatory network in situ. Using live confocal imaging of ureteric microvascular networks, we have studied the architecture, morphology, Ca2+ signalling and contractility of myocytes and pericytes. Ca2+ signals vary between distributing arcade and downstream transverse and precapillary arterioles, are modified by a

SUBMITTER: Borysova L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3775125 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature