Novel Molecular Basis for Vascular Health Regulated by Vasohibin-1

ABSTRACT

The endothelium covers the entire luminal surface of blood vessels, organizes the interface between the blood and underlying tissues, and controls vascular tone, blood clotting, transport of various substances across the vascular wall, adhesion and transmigration of leukocytes, and so forth. The structural and functional integrity of endothelium is essential for the maintenance of vascular health. In light of its important role, the endothelium should have a self-defense system such as vasohibin-1 (VASH1), a protein preferentially expressed in endothelial cells (ECs). Unique features of VASH1 are its anti-angiogenic activity and ability to promote stress tolerance of ECs. This mini review summarizes the current understanding of VASH1, especially the posttranscriptional regulation of its synthesis in response to cellular stresses and aging.