Ultrastructural analysis of the endothelial : pericyte relationship in diabetic cutaneous vessels

摘要: The microvessels in the buttock skin of 15 patients with long-standing juvenile diabetes were studied both by electron microscopy and three-dimensional (3D) computer reconstruction a prototypical diabetic postcapillary venule. Endothelial cell gaps found venules capillaries, but only association an increased deposition basement membrane-like material vascular wall. In parallel amounts deposited material, space between pericytes endothelial cells was wider cytoplasmic processes that formed contact points them longer thinner than normal. Pericytes, devoid any contacts underlying cells, observed as isolated within outer third wall markedly thickened vessels. These observations offer explanation for known permeability vessels, suggest possible development retinopathy aneurysm formation.