ICAM-1 expression and cytoskeleton organization in endothelial cells. Influence of laminar shear stress

Mechanical forces regulate the morphology and the metabolism of endothelial cells through mechano-sensitive structures existed on cell surface. In this work, the influence of a steady laminar or disturbed flow on cell cytoskeleton and its connection with differential adhesion molecules expression at the apical side of the endothelial cell were studied in vitro. A 3D cell scanner coupled with a fluorescence microscope allowed the authors to visualize the spatial organization or distribution of cytoskeleton and adhesion molecules marked by specific fluorescent probes. In static conditions, the actin fibers presented a random structure, but after exposure to shear stresses, it was observed a reorganization of these fibers. The distribution of adhesion molecules at the cell surface seems to be linked to these structural modifications. These studies help one to better understand the response of endothelium to complex flows near vascular singularities.