Comparative transcriptomic profiling of human aortic smooth muscle cells exposed to cyclic stretch and normotensive or hypertensive hydrostatic pressure

Although vascular smooth muscle cells are continuously exposed to cyclic stretch and hydrostatic pressure, the individual effects of these mechanical stimuli on global molecular profiles remain poorly understood. Using a custom-made cyclic hydrostatic pressure culture system developed in our laboratory, we performed transcriptome analyses of human aortic smooth muscle cells exposed to cyclic stretch or hydrostatic pressure to characterize the molecular profiles induced by these stimuli.