Vascular ageing and endothelial cell senescence: Molecular mechanisms of physiology and diseases

Publication date: Available online 4 May 2016 Source:Mechanisms of Ageing and Development Author(s): Carla Regina, Emanuele Panatta, Eleonora Candi, Gerry Melino, Ivano Amelio, Carmela Rita Balistreri, Margherita Annicchiarico-Petruzzelli, Nicola Di Daniele, Giovanni Ruvolo Ageingleads to a progressive deterioration of structure and function of all organs over the time. During this process endothelial cells undergo senescence andmanifest significant changes in their properties, resulting in impairment of the vascular functionality and neo-angiogenic capability. Thisageing-dependent impairment of endothelial functions is considered a key factor contributing to vascular dysfunctions, which is responsible of several age-related diseases of the vascular system and other organs.Several mechanisms have been described to control ageing-related endothelial cell senescence including microRNAs, mitochondrial dysfunction and microenvironmentalstressors, such as hypoxia.In this review, we attempt to summarize the recent literature in the field, discussing the majormechanisms involved inendothelial cell senescence. We also underlinekey molecular aspects ofageing-associated vascular dysfunctionin the attempt to highlight potential innovative therapeutic targets to delay the onset of age-related diseases.
Source: Mechanisms of Ageing and Development - Category: Geriatrics Source Type: research