[Biological effects of estrogen on capillary vessel formation in wound healing]

Abstract

Objective: To review the regulating effects of estrogen on endothelial cell functions, the involved endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), and the related VEGF, and explore the mechanism of estrogen participating in new vessel formation on wound basement and wound healing.

Methods: Recent literature about biological effects of estrogen on capillary vessel formation was reviewed.

Results: The formation of new vessel in the wound's granulation tissue contained vasculogenesis and vascularization, and the new vessels could transport the oxygen and nutrient for the metabolism of the local healing tissue. The estrogen effected vascular endothelial cells through its receptors. Peripheral vascular EPCs differentiated into endothelial cells and participated into the formation of new vessels. Estradiol exerted influences on the dynamics of vascular EPCs and the neovascularization. VEGF was a key mediator in the processes of estradiol regulating angiogenesis.

Conclusion: Understanding the molecular mechanisms that regulate vessel formation in wound healing, especially how estrogen modulates its receptor and angiogenic factor, may provide new approaches for managing wound healing.