Neointimaalinen

Neointimaalinen refers to a pathological proliferation of cells within a blood vessel, specifically in the inner lining or tunica intima. This process is often a response to injury or inflammation of the vessel wall. The proliferation primarily involves smooth muscle cells, which migrate from the tunica media to the tunica intima and multiply. This accumulation of cells and extracellular matrix material can lead to a thickening of the intima.

The formation of neointima is a significant factor in various vascular diseases and interventions. It is a common complication after procedures like angioplasty and stenting, where the vessel wall is injured. The neointimal hyperplasia in these cases can cause restenosis, a re-narrowing of the artery, which can impede blood flow and lead to adverse clinical outcomes. Similarly, neointimal formation plays a role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis, contributing to the narrowing of arteries over time.

The process of neointimal formation involves complex cellular and molecular mechanisms, including the release of growth factors and cytokines, as well as inflammatory responses. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat conditions associated with neointimal hyperplasia. Research continues to explore ways to modulate these cellular processes and improve long-term vascular health after interventions or in the context of vascular disease.