Direct Simulation of Hypertensive Stress on Endothelial Cells: A Streamlined model of in-vitro-hypertension

Hypertension is the leading preventable cardiovascular risk factor. Researchers developed a dynamic in vitro hypertension model using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in an advanced bioreactor system. This model distinguishes between mechanical pressure effects and Angiotensin II's pharmacological action. Angiotensin II induced NF-kB and p38MAPK phosphorylation, elevating IL-6 and Endothelin-1 secretion. Mechanical pressure enhanced NF-kB and p38MAPK without affecting cytokine secretion. Combined stimuli showed synergistic effects on inflammatory parameters compared to unstimulated cells. This advanced model reproduces vascular hypertension features and simulates hemodynamic conditions through controlled flow with adjustable pressure parameters, facilitating discrimination between mechanical and chemical effects for developing new therapies.