Regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell contraction during early postnatal ontogenesis

Abstract

Growth of the body in early postnatal ontogenesis is associated with changes in the functioning of many organ systems, including the cardiovascular system. The circulatory system of newborns is characterized by numerous structural and functional features, which at the systemic level is manifested in a significantly lower level of blood pressure. This review describes the differences in the mechanisms of regulation of vascular smooth muscle cell contraction in early postnatal ontogenesis and in adulthood, including age-related changes in the functioning of ion channels, which activity affects membrane potential level and intracellular concentration of calcium ions, as well as changes in calcium sensitivity of the contractile apparatus. The final section of the review discusses the connection between the mechanisms regulating contraction and differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells during maturation.