Working out how blood flow disturbances predispose to atherosclerosis

The Endothelial P2X4/7 Receptor Axis is Dynamically Regulated under Shear Stress at Arterial Sites Prone to Atherosclerosis

Heart attacks and strokes result from the build-up of fatty plaques within blood vessels, called atherosclerosis. There are specific regions of arteries, such as branch points and curves, that more likely to develop fatty plaques. This is because the blood flow changes at branch points and curves, rather like in a river where a bend or rock leads to fast and slow flowing areas. Research has shown that disturbances in blood flow activate the cells lining the artery (known as endothelial cells), so that circulating cells and fat within the blood enter the artery wall, causing plaque build-up. The team believes that these cells are activated because sensors on their surface respond to the changes in blood flow. They will test how blood flow sensors are regulated in endothelial cells and in arteries donated by patients having surgery.