# Oscillatory shear stress-driven endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition: a critical mechanical signal transduction mechanism in atherosclerosis progression

**Authors:** Jie Li, Wenchao Xu, Jie Ju, Min Liu, Wenxu Wang, Min Cheng, Xiaoyun Zhang, Xiaodong Cui, Hao Chen

PMC · DOI: 10.1038/s41420-026-03000-6 · Cell Death Discovery · 2026-03-10

## TL;DR

This paper explores how oscillatory shear stress causes endothelial cells to transform into mesenchymal cells, contributing to atherosclerosis.

## Contribution

The paper offers a detailed analysis of how oscillatory shear stress induces endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in atherosclerosis.

## Key findings

- Oscillatory shear stress promotes endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition through multiple pathways.
- EndMT is a critical event in atherosclerosis development.
- The study provides theoretical insights into atherosclerosis pathogenesis and potential therapies.

## Abstract

Atherosclerosis constitutes the primary pathological basis for cardiovascular diseases. It most commonly develops at the branching and curved regions of blood vessels. The disturbed blood flow in these regions can generate oscillatory shear stress (OSS). Endothelial cells exposed to OSS progressively undergo a transformation into mesenchymal cells, a process known as endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). EndMT is a critical event in the development of atherosclerosis. OSS promotes the occurrence of EndMT through multiple pathways. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the phenomena and mechanisms of OSS-induced EndMT, offering theoretical insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of atherosclerosis and corresponding therapeutic strategies.

## Linked entities

- **Diseases:** atherosclerosis (MONDO:0005311)

## Full-text entities

- **Diseases:** cardiovascular diseases (MESH:D002318), Atherosclerosis (MESH:D050197)

## Full text

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## Figures

6 figures with captions in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC13039374/full.md

## References

11 references — full list in the complete paper: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC13039374/full.md

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Source: https://tomesphere.com/paper/PMC13039374