Endothelial Cell Migration

Endothelial cell migration refers to the orderly movement of endothelial cells into the extracellular matrix to form an endothelium. This process is fundamental for both physiological and pathological events, including vasculogenesis, angiogenesis, wound healing, tissue regeneration, and restoration of vessel integrity after injury. It involves sensing external signals, activating intracellular signaling pathways, degrading the extracellular matrix, and directional movement guided by chemotaxis, haptotaxis, and mechanotaxis. Key molecules include growth factors like VEGF and PDGF, integrins, and cytoskeletal regulators like Rac1 and myosin II.