| Abstract: | The pericytes of mouse myocardium are extensively branched cells that forma an incomplete layer around the endothelium of capillaries and postcapillary venules. The membranes of pericytes and endothelial cells are conected by specialized junctions. Microtubules, intermediate (10-nm) filaments and microfilaments are oriented within circumferentially-arranged cytoplasmic processes of pericytes so as partially to encircle the endothelial cylinder. The intracellular organization of these myocardial pericytes suggests that they are smoth muscle-like cells which may be capable of influencing microvascular dynamics in the heart. |
