Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are technically pericytes. A pericyte lives on the blood vessels and play a crucial role in regulating blood flow, blood pressure, and vessel integrity. The pericytes look sort of like an octopus wrapped around a tube. In this analogy the tube is the capillary or micro blood vessels throughout the body. Pericytes are known to contribute to the regulation of blood pressure and are involved in maintaining a healthy vascular system. When inflammation or damage is detected nearby the pericyte releases from the blood vessel and is then considered an MSC. It will then guide the cellular regeneration of the injured area and then look for a new blood vessel to call home when it is done. When it finds a new blood vessel to call home it is then a pericyte again.
Many MSCs when administered in an IV to patients will become pericytes. These new pericytes will improve microvascular function, which can help to reduce high blood pressure. MSC-derived pericytes can also regulate blood flow and reduce endothelial dysfunction, which is known to contribute to high blood pressure. The pericytes squeeze and release the blood vessels they live on to help control blood pressure.
Additionally, MSC-derived pericytes can also produce various growth factors and cytokines that have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve cardiovascular health. These factors can help to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis, all of which are associated with high blood pressure and can lead to vascular damage.
Overall, the MSCs that become pericytes are an important mechanism through which MSCs contribute to the treatment of high blood pressure.
