Work

Role of Caveolae and Caveolin in Vascular Physiology and Pathology

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Caveolae, 50-100 nm cholesterol-rich plasma membrane invaginations, serve as critical signaling hubs in vascular cells. These structures-scaffolded by caveolin proteins (CAV1, CAV2, CAV3) and regulated by Cavins-orchestrate membrane dynamics, mechanotransduction, and lipid trafficking in endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages. In vascular physiology, caveolae modulate vascular tone, regulate lipoprotein metabolism, and mediate mechanosensation. In pathology, caveolae are implicated in atherosclerosis, pulmonary hypertension, and diabetic vasculopathy. This review synthesizes advances in caveolae biology, highlighting their roles in vascular homeostasis and disease. We propose caveolae-targeted therapies as promising strategies for cardiovascular disorders, contingent on resolving context-dependent signaling complexity.

Source: Journal of the American Heart Association

DOI: 10.1161/jaha.125.047590

Authors: Chi Zhang, Wenting Hu, Jiaye Zhang, Zanxin Wang, Haocheng Lu

Institutions: Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Caveolin-1 and cellular processes

Subfield: Cell Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,810