The role of endothelial cell–pericyte interactions in vascularization and diseases

•Physiologic significance of intact normal microvascular structures.•The role of endothelial cells and pericytes in angiogenesis and vascular remodeling.•Discuss the complex signaling pathways between endothelial cells and pericytes.•The disease manifestations of disordered signaling pathways.•Potential therapeutic strategies to correct disordered signaling pathways.