Combined pre−/postcapillary pulmonary hypertension (Cpc‐PH), a complication of left heart failure, is associated with higher mortality rates than isolated postcapillary pulmonary hypertension alone. Currently, knowledge gaps persist on the mechanisms responsible for the progression of isolated postcapillary pulmonary hypertension (Ipc‐PH) to Cpc‐PH. Here, we review the biomechanical and mechanobiological impact of left heart failure on pulmonary circulation, including mechanotransduction of these pathological forces, which lead to altered biological signaling and detrimental remodeling, driving the progression to Cpc‐PH. We focus on pathologically increased cyclic stretch and decreased wall shear stress; mechanotransduction by endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and pulmonary arterial fibroblasts; and signaling‐stimulated remodeling of the pulmonary veins, capillaries, and arteries that propel the transition from Ipc‐PH to Cpc‐PH. Identifying biomechanical and mechanobiological mechanisms of Cpc‐PH progression may highlight potential pharmacologic avenues to prevent right heart failure and subsequent mortality.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.