Dysfunction or loss of pericytes is linked to various diseases. For example:
Diabetic retinopathy: Loss of pericytes leads to increased vascular permeability and microaneurysms in the retina. Alzheimer's disease: Pericyte degeneration is associated with blood-brain barrier breakdown, contributing to neurodegeneration. Tumor growth: Pericytes can either support or inhibit tumor growth depending on their interaction with tumor cells and the microenvironment.
