Pericytes are multipotent mesenchymal-like cells found in association with small blood vessel walls and are important for angiogenesis, the structural integrity of the microvasculature and blood flow regulation. However, they can also develop into malignant tumours called hemangiopericytomas.

Pericytes have demonstrated the ability to differentiate into adipocytes, osteoblasts, fibroblasts, smooth muscle cells and phagocytes (macrophages).