Nanomechanics of vascular endothelium

Abstract

The mechanical characteristics of endothelial cells reveal four distinct compartments, namely glycocalyx, cell cortex, cytoplasm and nucleus. There is accumulating evidence that endothelial nanomechanics of these individual compartments control vascular physiology. Depending on protein composition, filament formation and interaction with cross-linker proteins, these four compartments determine endothelial stiffness. Structural organization and mechanical properties directly influence physiological processes such as endothelial barrier function, nitric oxide release and gene expression. This review will focus on endothelial nanomechanics and its impact on vascular function.

Fig. 1

Cellular nanomechanics. Glycocalyx and cytoskeletal organization of endothelial cells determine the mechanical characteristics of the endothelium

Fig. 2

eGC stiffness in endothelial function. a A well-hydrated eGC guarantees a functional endothelium. b Shedding damages the eGC, which results in decreased barrier function. c Acute collapse leads to similar functional changes as described in B but eGC nanomechanics are different

Fig. 3

Cortical stiffness influences endothelial function. Softening of the cell cortex, induced by cortical actin depolymerization, decreases membrane abundance of ENaC and endothelial sodium uptake and increases eNOS activity and increases endothelial barrier function

Fig. 4

Nuclear elasticity in endothelial function. Elasticity of the cell nucleus regulates gene expression and endothelial function