Cellular and molecular neurobiology
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Cell. Mol. Neurobiol. · Mar 2011
Brain pericytes: emerging concepts and functional roles in brain homeostasis.
Brain pericytes are an important constituent of neurovascular unit. They encircle endothelial cells and contribute to the maturation and stabilization of the capillaries in the brain. ⋯ In addition, brain pericytes are pluripotent and can differentiate into different lineages similar to mesenchymal stem cells. The brain pericytes are revisited as a key player to maintain brain function and repair brain damage.