Dynamic MCP-1 mRNA response of human aortic endothelial cells (HAEC) to step changes in laminar shear stress

Our aim is to study the hemodynamic alteration of monocyte recruitment and adhesion in model blood vessel systems, focusing on the hemodynamic effects of the recruitment factor monocyte chemotactic protein one, MCP-1, gene expression in HAEC. Preconditioning with low shear stress, LS, elevates MCP-1 gene activity and eliminates any transient peak in activity upon switching to high shear stress, HS, without affecting HS-induced gene down-regulation. These data suggest an interaction between the pathways mediating the long term response to LS and the transient cellular response to HS onset.