Fluid shear stress increases the release of platelet derived growth factor BB (PDGF BB) by aortic endothelial cells.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between shear stress and the release of Platelet Derived Growth Factor (PDGF BB) by aortic endothelial cells. DESIGN AND SETTING: Laboratory in vitro study. MATERIALS: Bovine aortic endothelial cells were seeded in fibronectin-coated cylinders at 1.0 x 10(6) cells/tube and allowed to reach confluence and to adhere for 48 hours. The experimental groups were subjected to nonpulsatile, laminar flow of 50, 100, 150 ml/min in polystyrene cylinders (i.d. 10 mm) of a closed circulatory loop giving a shear stress on the endothelial cells of 3, 6, 9 dyn/cm2. The control group was subjected to similar incubation conditions without flow. OUTCOME MEASURES: The release of PDGF BB by endothelial cells was measured by ELISA and Western Blot Analysis. RESULTS: Shear stress increased significantly (p < 0.01) the release of PDGF BB by endothelial cells. CONCLUSIONS: PDGF BB release by endothelial cells may be one of the mechanisms linking hemodynamic forces and adaptation of blood vessels wall.