CMS Pathway™ - the path that links cell matrix signaling to endothelial cell function, smooth muscle cell function and disease

The CMS Pathway™ and the role of this pathway in human disease is illustrated in the figure below. Endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells in the blood vessel wall communicate through molecules in the sub-endothelial matrix. The sub-endothelial matrix is a complex organization of protein and carbohydrate molecules that are secreted by both the endothelial and smooth muscle cells. The molecules are the basis of signaling between these two cell types and the rest of the body. Certain disease states, such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, can cause alterations in the types or amounts of these important signaling molecules. Alterations in the signaling molecules received or transmitted by endothelial cells can result in inflammatory disorders, such as diabetic vasculopathy or arthritis. Alterations in the signaling molecules received or transmitted by the smooth muscle cells can lead to proliferative disorders such as restenosis or cancer. Our therapeutics are designed to intervene in the CMS Pathway™ and modulate the alterations in signaling for positive clinical effect.