Endothelial Cytoskeleton PDF

Preface

Endothelial cytoskeleton, is intended to present a concise synthesis of the current knowledge and recent advances in the structure, organization and functional role of the cytoskeleton in endothelial cells (ECs).

The cytoskeleton regulates a number of processes within the cell. Thus, several proteins like the Rho superfamily, require association with the cytoskeletal in order to be fully active. Hence, understanding the molecular processes underlying cytoskeleton remodelling and its interaction with other cellular structures might be crucial to expand our knowledge regarding cell physiology. Particular attention is given to the involvement of the cytoskeleton in the regulation of vascular function mediated by the endothelium. In this sense, disruption of the endothelial layer underlies a number of cardiovascular diseases such as heart stroke, thrombosis, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. Therefore, this book intends to serve as a comprehensive resource for those interested in the fascinating biological processes associated with vascular biology.

The authors who have contributed in various ways to the compilation of this book are well known and are also active researchers in their respective fi elds. As a result the book contains chapters that are of high standard and present novel approaches to the subject at hand. Some chapters include original fi gures derived from the authors' current experimental results.

We would like to thank all contributors and reviewers that have shared their knowledge and experience with us to make this book project a reality. We hope that the information contained in this book will be helpful to the scientists working in this fi eld as well as to students that initiate their research in this area.

We dedicate this book to our beloved families: we appreciate their bearing up with us for the time spent by us in the preparation of this book.