In vitro fluidic systems: Applying shear stress on endothelial cells

Endothelial cells (ECs) that reside on the surface of blood vessels are constantly exposed to mechanical stimulation, including shear stress. Fluid shear stress (FSS) controls multiple physiological processes in ECs, regulating various pathways that maintain vascular tone and homeostasis function. The complexity of in vivo biological systems raises a demand for better in vitro techniques, which can generate FSS to closely mimic the cellular microenvironment. Through the rational design and use of flow chamber devices, in vitro fluidic systems are critical for a deeper understanding of endothelial responses to various shear conditions. The paper describes principal types of FSS systems, including functional attributes, development process and recent experiments on ECs. Finally, we prospect their possible contribution in the field of endothelial diseases.