Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells form the inner lining of all blood vessels. These cells are highly responsive to the shear stress that is caused by blood flowing over their surface. In this thesis, several aspects of the endothelial response to shear stress are studied. The experiments focus on signal transduction, cytoskeletal remodeling, migration, micromechanical changes and uptake of low density lipoprotein. Most of these experiments were performed by using microfluidic set-ups. In these set-ups, cells are cultured and subjected to experimental conditions in micrometer-sized channels. Several advantages and challenges associated with applying this new technology in vascular research are discussed.
Original language | English |
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Award date | 10 Mar 2010 |
Place of Publication | Enschede |
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Print ISBNs | 978-90-365-2978-5 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 10 Mar 2010 |