Mechanisms of Collateral Arteriogenesis in Ischemia

Univ Of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill NC

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Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The purpose of this project is to improve our understanding of arteriogenesis in ischemia. This process, consisting of outward remodeling of pre-existing arteriole anastomoses and formation of new or "neo-collaterals", is not well understood. Moreover, many patients with ischemic disease show a deficit in collateral development. A mouse strain with a severe deficiency in recovery of perfusion after artery ligation has been identified, but the reasons for the impairment are unknown. Aim I will use new methods we have developed for imaging arteriogenesis, will introduce a new strategy for study of neo-collateral formation, and will test the hypothesis that formation of neo-collaterals is defective in the strain. There is evidence that the morphogenic pathway, Sonic hedgehog-notch, which mediates early vascular development, may be reactivated in adults during injury and/or remodeling. A role for this pathway in arteriogenesis has not been studied. Our preliminary data suggest Shh signaling is important in collateral maturation. Therefore, Aim II will examine the hypothesis that Shh-notch signaling contributes to pre-existing collateral maturation and neo-collateral formation, and that it is defective in the impaired strain.