# Fluid shear stress-dependent modulation of the basal endothelial glycocalyx

## TL;DR

This study shows how fluid shear stress affects the basal glycocalyx of endothelial cells, which may play a key role in vascular function.

## Contribution

The study reveals that the basal glycocalyx is modulated by fluid shear stress and has a distinct expression pattern.

## Key findings

- The basal glycocalyx shows a different expression pattern compared to the apical glycocalyx.
- Fluid shear stress increases the overall expression of the basal glycocalyx.
- The basal glycocalyx is linked to cytoskeletal dynamics and vascular barrier integrity.

## Abstract

The vascular endothelial glycocalyx is a major regulator of endothelium function, serving as a vital mechanotransducer and barrier. Shear stress due to blood flow exerted on the apical endothelial cell (EC) and glycocalyx have been the primary focus of the field due to their direct interaction. Recently, it has been demonstrated that the basal glycocalyx, exposed to the basement membrane, is sensitive to apical fluid shear stress and necessary for promoting mechanotransduction pathways key in the EC response to blood flow. Here, we demonstrate the fluid shear stress-dependent modulation of the basal endothelial glycocalyx, showing a notably different expression pattern and overall increased expression compared to the apical glycocalyx. Our findings, coupled with prior evidence linking the basal GCX to cytoskeletal dynamics, underscore its potential role in vascular barrier integrity and mechanotransduction.