Breakthrough Study Reveals Perivascular Cells as Key Players in Chronic Disease Progression
January 14, 2025
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have uncovered the significant role of perivascular cells in blood vessel dysfunction associated with chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and fibrosis.
The findings indicate that these perivascular cells drive blood vessel leakage and distortion, which exacerbates inflammation and worsens disease outcomes.
Led by Luiz Bertassoni, D.D.S., Ph.D., the study published in Science Advances suggests that perivascular cells sense changes in nearby tissues and send signals that disrupt blood vessel function, further advancing disease progression.
To conduct their research, the team utilized a 'blood vessel on-a-chip' model developed in collaboration with Boston University and the Wyss Institute at Harvard, effectively simulating conditions such as tissue stiffening and scarring.
Bertassoni emphasized that addressing perivascular cell changes early could transform strategies for cancer prevention and treatment.
The research enhances our understanding of the relationship between the extracellular matrix, blood vessel function, and disease progression, positioning perivascular cells as promising therapeutic targets.
The study demonstrated that removing perivascular cells resulted in blood vessels failing to respond to changes in surrounding tissues, underscoring their essential role in maintaining vascular health.
Cristiane Miranda Franca, D.D.S., Ph.D., the study's lead author, noted that perivascular cells trigger inflammation and signal changes in blood vessels when surrounding tissues are altered.
The study highlights the potential for early detection and intervention in changes to perivascular cells, which could prevent the progression of precancerous lesions to full-blown cancer, indicating a revolutionary approach to cancer prevention and treatment.
Historically, endothelial cells were considered the primary contributors to vascular disease; however, this study shifts the focus to include the critical role of perivascular cells as important sentinels in vascular responses.
Bertassoni's team previously gained recognition for developing a method to 3D print blood vessels, and they continue to focus on creating realistic blood vessel models for studying diseases.
Overall, the findings from this research may lead to new treatment approaches for chronic diseases, emphasizing the importance of targeting perivascular cells.
Summary based on 2 sources
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Sources

ScienceDaily • Jan 13, 2025
New study identifies how blood vessel dysfunction can worsen chronic disease
Medical Xpress • Jan 13, 2025
Blood vessel on-a-chip identifies how perivascular cells can worsen chronic disease