Induction of Cyclooxygenase-2 Expression by Fluid Shear Stress in Vascular Endothelial Cells

Vascular endothelial cells are exposed to a wide variety of biomechanical stimuli including fluid shear stress caused by blood flow. Shear stress modulates several endothelial functions, such as control of vascular tone, maintenance of antithrombotic surfaces, regulation of inflammation, protection against oxidative stresses, and regulation of endothelial cell proliferation and apoptosis.