The role of pericytes in homeostasis and cardiovascular disease: A comprehensive review

By integrating evidence from preclinical models such as lineage-tracing mice, disease-specific animal models and clinical samples, this review elucidates the common and disease-specific mechanisms linking pericyte dysfunction to CVD pathogenesis, and highlights the therapeutic promise of targeting pericyte biology. Key scientific concepts explored include the interplay between pericyte phenotypic plasticity and microenvironmental cues, the role of pericyte-endothelial cell crosstalk in vascular homeostasis and dysfunction, and the clinical relevance of pericyte subpopulation heterogeneity. Ultimately, this work provides novel mechanistic insights into CVD progression and offers a framework for advancing pericyte-directed therapeutic development, bridging the gap between basic research and clinical application to improve outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disorders.