A hitherto unknown rod-shaped cytoplasmic component which consists of a bundle of fine tubules, enveloped by a tightly fitted membrane, was regularly found in endothelial cells of small arteries in various organs in rat and man. It is about 0.1 micro thick, measures up to 3 micro in length, and contains several small tubules, approximately 150 A thick, embedded in a dense matrix, and disposed p...

Many liver physiological and pathophysiological behaviors are not adequately captured by current in vitro hepatocyte culture methods. A 3D perfused microreactor previously demonstrated superior hepatic functional maintenance than conventional 2D cultures, and was hypothesized to provide an environment favorable to endothelial cell maintenance and morphogenesis. This dissertation focuses on char...

BACKGROUND Extracellular ATP is an important signaling molecule for vascular adaptation to limited oxygen availability (hypoxia). Here, we pursued the contribution of vascular endothelia to extracellular ATP release under hypoxic conditions. METHODOLOGY, PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We gained first insight from studying ATP release from endothelia (HMEC-1) pre-exposed to hypoxia. Surprisingly, we found...

Constructing biomimetic structure and immobilizing antithrombus factors are two effective methods to ensure rapid endothelialization long-term anticoagulation for small-diameter vascular grafts. However, few literatures available regarding simultaneous implementation of these strategies. Herein, a nano-micro-fibrous graft with heparin coating was prepared via step-by-step in situ biosynthesis m...