Endothelial Glycocalyx as a Regulator of Fibrotic Processes |
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Authors: | Valentina Masola Gianluigi Zaza Arduino Arduini Maurizio Onisto Giovanni Gambaro |
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Affiliation: | 1.Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, 35121 Padova, Italy;2.Division of Nephrology and Dialysis, Department of Medicine, Piazzale A. Stefani 1, 37126 Verona, Italy;3.R&D Department, CoreQuest Sagl, Via Cantonale 18, 6928 Manno, Switzerland; |
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Abstract: | The endothelial glycocalyx, the gel layer covering the endothelium, is composed of glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and adsorbed plasma proteins. This structure modulates vessels’ mechanotransduction, vascular permeability, and leukocyte adhesion. Thus, it regulates several physiological and pathological events. In the present review, we described the mechanisms that disturb glycocalyx stability such as reactive oxygen species, matrix metalloproteinases, and heparanase. We then focused our attention on the role of glycocalyx degradation in the induction of profibrotic events and on the possible pharmacological strategies to preserve this delicate structure. |
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Keywords: | endothelium glycocalyx fibrosis |
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