Vascular smooth muscle cell polyploidy: an adaptive or maladaptive response?

Polyploidy is a state in which a cell contains multiple copies of its entire genome, while a normal diploid cell contains only two sets of homologous chromosomes. Although widely studied and pervasive in nature, the signals and mechanisms of polyploidization and its accompanying operational consequences are still unclear. This review focuses on relevant questions in deciphering the regulation of polyploidization of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) in mammals and the role of polyploidy in various vascular pathologies, such as hypertension and aging. Additionally, we will explore new investigations in polyploidization of VSMCs involving the rapidly expanding fields of oxidative stress and senescence. J. Cell. Physiol. 215: 588-592, 2008. (c) 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.