Cyclic strain stimulates intracellular superoxide production in vascular smooth muscle cells

The effect of cyclic strain on intracellular superoxide production in rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) was studied. Cells were examined under a confocal microscope or they were removed from the membranes and the mean intensity per cell was measured with flow cytometry. Data indicate that a short-term application of a 10% cyclic strain in vitro causes an acute increase in intracellular superoxide production in vascular smooth muscle cells.